Itanagar, Feb 9 (NationPress) Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated on Monday that the remarkable changes observed in the state over the last decade are attributed to the collaborative endeavors of the state government, elected officials, administrative bodies, and central organizations under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Chief Minister made these remarks during the inauguration of the Tsari Taksing Gajang Shedup Dargeyling Monastery in Taksing, a secluded border village located in the Upper Subansiri district near the Tibet-China border.

Reiterating the government’s dedication to enhancing development, connectivity, and employment opportunities in frontier regions, Khandu characterized the event as historic, noting that such a substantial public assembly had never occurred before in Taksing.

He commended the Nah Welfare Society, local leaders, and district officials for successfully organizing the event, overcoming the logistical hurdles posed by the area’s isolation.

During his visit to the Nacho Assembly constituency, Khandu announced that over 40 developmental projects, including inaugurations and laying of foundation stones, were completed, highlighting the swift pace of infrastructural advancements in the district.

Emphasizing that connectivity is essential for development, Khandu recalled how Taksing was previously accessible solely by helicopter due to a lack of road infrastructure. He noted that road connectivity was established in 2019 through persistent collaboration with the Government of India and the Border Roads Organisation, initiating significant socio-economic changes in the area.

He mentioned the Trans-Arunachal Highway, stating that this nearly 1,800-km corridor stretching from Tawang to Longding has drastically cut down travel time and improved access to district headquarters, citing instances where trips that previously required over 12 hours can now be completed in approximately five hours.

Moreover, the Chief Minister discussed the forthcoming Frontier Highway, a strategic border road initiative endorsed by the Government of India. He revealed that tender processes are currently underway for several segments, including Sarli-Taliha and Taliha-Tato in Upper Subansiri, urging public cooperation to guarantee efficient and transparent execution.

Stressing a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, Khandu cautioned that any delays or inconsistencies in land compensation and project implementation could adversely affect public interest. He referenced actions taken in certain eastern segments of the Trans-Arunachal Highway, where investigations were initiated and strict measures were enforced to ensure accountability.

In terms of border area development, the Chief Minister remarked that the Vibrant Villages Programme, launched in Arunachal Pradesh in 2021, has provided tangible benefits to border regions by enhancing road connectivity, livelihoods, and essential infrastructure.

He also highlighted the need for effective collaboration between civil authorities, the Indian Army, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police to create sustainable development models in border villages.

Announcing plans to establish Taksing as a tourist hub, Khandu emphasized its historical and religious importance in Buddhism. He noted that Taksing is a sacred pilgrimage destination linked to the ancient Tsari (Rong Kora), which used to draw pilgrims from Tibet and other areas until the mid-20th century, adding that efforts are underway, in coordination with the Army and the Government of India, to revive the pilgrimage in a regulated manner.