Itanagar, Jan 10 (NationPress) Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated on Friday that in his nine years as Chief Minister, numerous milestones were established, attributing the region's growth to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s genuine concern and affection for the northeast.
During the inaugural ceremony of the three-day silver jubilee celebration of the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) at Aalo in West Siang district, Khandu noted: “Modi ji consistently emphasizes – we must make up for the 60 years of deprivation and neglect that the northeast has faced from the Centre.”
He insisted that the transformation is evident, and the public recalls the condition of Arunachal Pradesh a decade ago.
Khandu praised the Galo community for their collaboration with the state government and their role in successfully implementing government schemes and projects.
He acknowledged that the Galos, recognized as one of the most progressive communities in the state, have led the way in executing government initiatives, resulting in a complete revitalization of Galo-inhabited areas. Khandu affirmed the state government’s commitment to maintain this development momentum, aiming for an accelerated pace.
The Chief Minister pointed out that as the state’s revenue has significantly increased over the past 7-8 years, the government has been able to launch numerous people-oriented projects and welfare schemes.
Highlighting the necessity to harness the state’s natural resources for revenue generation, he remarked that greater revenue would lead to enhanced development. However, he cautioned against compromising the cultural identity of the indigenous communities in the name of progress.
“We cannot forfeit our cultural identity and indigenous languages for development. It is the responsibility of organizations like GWS, AITF, and other community-based organizations to keep our tribal identity alive for future generations,” he stated.
Addressing the concerning rise of drug addiction among Galo youths, Khandu urged the GWS, particularly its youth wing, to collaborate with the government in combating the drug issue.
He emphasized that the state government and local police are actively working with other northeastern states to tackle this problem. Nevertheless, he asserted that community involvement is essential in spreading awareness and combating stigma. Khandu appealed to the public to treat addicts with compassion, not as social outcasts.
“They should be treated like any other patient. They are unwell and need our care and treatment,” he urged.
Khandu commended the Mothers Vision NGO for operating a rehabilitation center in Aalo but noted the necessity for more advanced facilities, suggesting that some patients may need to be transferred to better-equipped centers outside the region.
He announced that if patients from economically disadvantaged backgrounds require such transfers, the state government will cover their expenses. He instructed the district administration to identify suitable rehabilitation centers for these patients, which the government will oversee.
