Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has welcomed the Union Cabinet’s approval of the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for 2026–31, calling it an important step towards clean energy growth and rural development in the northeast. Reacting to the decision on March 18, Khandu said the scheme would help tap the state’s large hydropower potential, especially in remote and border areas where many rivers are still not used for power generation. In a post on X, the Chief Minister described the approval as a “very welcome decision” taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the scheme would provide a strong push to decentralised and environment-friendly energy systems in hilly regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
Khandu pointed out that Arunachal, with its vast network of rivers, has long remained an underutilised hub for hydropower. He said the enhanced financial support under the scheme, particularly for hill and border states, would help unlock this potential and bring reliable power to remote villages.He also highlighted that small hydro projects are less disruptive compared to large dams. According to him, such projects can be developed with minimal displacement while still creating jobs and improving basic infrastructure in rural areas. “The scheme will not only boost clean energy but also create local employment and support livelihoods,” Khandu said, adding that proper planning and execution will be key to ensuring long-term benefits.
The Chief Minister further said that if implemented effectively, the initiative could strengthen the rural economy and help position the northeast, especially Arunachal Pradesh, as a key player in sustainable hydropower development. The Union Cabinet’s decision is expected to open new opportunities for states in the region, where geographical conditions favour small hydro projects but investment has remained limited so far.
