Itanagar, Jan 28 (NationPress) Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated on Wednesday that the Bharatiya Janata Party stands out as a "party with a difference," operating under the guiding principle of "Nation First" and prioritizing ideology over the mere quest for power.

During the state-level orientation program for newly elected Zilla Parishad Chairpersons (ZPCs), Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs), and Gram Panchayat Chairpersons (GPCs), Khandu highlighted that the BJP emphasizes national and societal service over personal or party gains, contrasting this approach with other political entities.

He congratulated the BJP organization for its remarkable achievements in the recent Panchayat elections, labeling the outcomes as historic since the party established a significant presence throughout the state. Khandu praised the party workers and newly elected officials, noting that many of them, including graduates and postgraduates, are first-time representatives in the Panchayati Raj system.

Khandu emphasized the necessity of discipline, ideological clarity, and grassroots empowerment, stating that this orientation program is designed to provide clarity to newly elected representatives regarding party ideology, responsibilities, conduct, and coordination with government frameworks.

He mentioned that additional training sessions for Panchayati Raj representatives will be organized by the Panchayati Raj Department in the coming days. Reflecting on Arunachal Pradesh's democratic evolution, he noted its relative youth in the democratic landscape, formalized only after 1972.

Despite a history of neglect post-Independence, he asserted that the state has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, particularly since the BJP's rise to power under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Khandu emphasized that development is an ongoing process, but its pace and effectiveness hinge on the quality of governance.

He pointed out the visible differences in governance over the last ten years and urged Panchayat representatives to fortify democratic institutions at the grassroots level. Stressing the crucial function of Panchayati Raj Institutions in realizing the vision of a "Viksit Bharat," he reiterated that true progress must commence from villages and Panchayats, rather than being confined to urban centers.

He stated that empowered Gram Panchayats would lead to stronger localities, districts, states, and ultimately a more developed nation.

Khandu reminded the newly elected officials that they are now public figures, and their actions reflect not only on themselves but also on the party. He warned that the BJP maintains a rigorous monitoring and reporting system at the grassroots level, stressing the critical importance of discipline, integrity, and accountability.

The Chief Minister assured Panchayat representatives of the government's respect for the autonomy of Panchayati Raj Institutions, stating that there would be no interference from MLAs in their operations. He added that the state government is committed to further strengthening these institutions by enhancing support structures and decentralizing authority.

Khandu encouraged improved collaboration between the party organization and governance, proposing the integration of elected Panchayat members into booth-level party committees to facilitate effective implementation of government schemes and enhance organizational unity.

He called upon the Panchayat representatives to familiarize themselves with both central and state government initiatives, including flagship programs, and to act as facilitators for the last-mile delivery of benefits to the most underprivileged segments of society.

Khandu emphasized that public service demands knowledge, ongoing learning, and proactive engagement with officials and institutions. He also highlighted the significance of training, leadership development, and ideological grounding, asserting that the BJP is not merely a political entity but a disciplined, service-oriented movement driven by the ethos of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas."

Lastly, he cautioned that the party would not hesitate to take action against representatives who do not meet discipline and performance expectations. He urged all elected Panchayat representatives to collaborate as a team, stay active and dedicated, and contribute meaningfully towards the aim of a developed Arunachal Pradesh.

Attendees at the orientation included State BJP President Kaling Moyong, Vice President cum Convenor Chow Zingnu Namchoom, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, cabinet ministers, MLAs, party officials, and senior BJP leader Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, along with Public Policy Research Centre Director Dr. Sumeet Bhasin, Nitin Vilas Mahadik, and Nido Sakter.