Itanagar, Jan 10 (NationPress) Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated on Friday that throughout his nine years in office, he has witnessed the establishment of numerous milestones, crediting this growth trajectory to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s genuine concern and affection for the northeast.
At the inauguration of the three-day silver jubilee celebration of the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) in Aalo, located in the West Siang district, the Chief Minister remarked: “Modi ji consistently emphasizes the need to rectify the 60 years of deprivation and neglect that the northeast has faced from the Centre.”
He insisted that the people have witnessed a significant transformation and that the previous conditions in Arunachal Pradesh ten years ago are still vividly remembered.
Khandu commended the Galo community for their collaboration with the state government in successfully implementing various government schemes and projects.
He reiterated that the Galos, recognized as one of the most progressive communities in the state, have played a pivotal role in the execution of these initiatives, leading to a complete transformation of Galo-dominated regions. Khandu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining the momentum of development at an accelerated pace.
Noting the substantial growth in the state's revenue over the past 7-8 years, he explained that this financial increase has enabled the government to carry out numerous people-centric projects and welfare schemes.
Khandu stressed the importance of harnessing the state's natural resources to boost revenue generation, stating that increased revenue would facilitate further development. However, he cautioned that in the pursuit of modernity, the cultural identity of the state’s indigenous communities must be safeguarded.
“We cannot compromise our cultural identity or indigenous languages for the sake of growth. It is the responsibility of organizations like GWS, AITF, and other community-based organizations to ensure our tribal identity remains vibrant for future generations,” he stated.
Addressing the concerning reports of escalating drug addiction among Galo youth, Khandu urged the GWS, particularly its youth wing, to collaborate with the government to tackle this issue.
He noted that the state government and police are actively working together with other northeastern states to combat the drug problem. Nevertheless, he emphasized the necessity for community involvement in raising awareness. Khandu urged everyone to approach addicts with compassion rather than ostracism.
“Treat them as you would any other patient. They require care and treatment,” he implored.
He acknowledged the efforts of the Mothers Vision NGO for operating a rehabilitation center in Aalo but pointed out the lack of advanced facilities, indicating that some patients may need to be transferred to better-equipped centers outside the region.
Khandu announced that if patients from impoverished backgrounds require such transfers, the state government will cover their expenses. He instructed the district administration to locate suitable rehabilitation centers for these patients, which the government will subsequently manage.
