Arunachal Pradesh CM Reviews Hydropower Projects: Overcomes Hurdles for Economic Growth

Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu reviewed hydropower projects, focusing on clearances and land acquisition. The meeting involved key officials and highlighted the state's stake in the Union Cabinet's financial support decision, aiming to fast-track project execution for economic and employment benefits.

On Tuesday, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu undertook a comprehensive review of the state's hydropower projects, zeroing in on necessary clearances and land acquisition. The key steering committee meeting saw participation from top government officials and leaders from CPSUs such as NHPC Ltd., SJVN Ltd., NEEPCO, and THDC India Ltd., and focused particularly on the 13 hydropower projects allotted to these PSUs.

The combined financial commitment for these projects is projected to exceed Rs1 lakh crore. Representing the Union Power Ministry was Joint Secretary (Hydro) Mohammad Afzal, further underlining the significance of the discussions.

Chief Minister Khandu emphasised the crucial role of hydropower development in boosting the state's economy, employment, and industrial growth. He called on all stakeholders to actively collaborate to navigate and eliminate obstacles hindering the advancement of these 13 key projects. "I direct all concerned departments and Deputy Commissioners to ensure that there are no delays from the state government in expediting the necessary tasks for clearances. Hydropower is vital for our state's revenue, employment, and economic opportunities. We must ensure that all projects move forward swiftly and efficiently," he declared.

Khandu also highlighted the Union Cabinet's recent approval of Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for North Eastern Region (NER) state governments for equity participation in hydropower projects through Joint Ventures (JV) between state and central public sector undertakings. He noted that Arunachal Pradesh stands as the largest stakeholder, benefiting significantly from the decision.

The Centre's policy, involving an outlay of Rs4,136 crore from FY 2024-25 to FY 2031-32, is set to bolster a cumulative hydroelectric capacity of about 15,000 MW. The funding will come through a 10% Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) for the North Eastern Region, extracted from the Ministry of Power's total outlay.

(With inputs from agencies.)