Itanagar, Sep 18 (NationPress) - On Thursday, Chief of the Army Staff (CoAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, met with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu to engage in discussions covering various topics, reaffirming the Army’s role as more than just a border-guarding force; it is also a vital contributor to the state’s development.

An official from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) noted that CoAS Gen Dwivedi, along with Lt. Gen. Abhijit S. Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 3 Corps, addressed a broad spectrum of issues during their meeting at the Civil Secretariat. They emphasized the Army's engagement in the state's growth.

The discussions included the effective implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), focusing on economic integration in forward areas, enhancing tourism development, and exploring investment opportunities in scenic and strategic locales. CM Khandu expressed his appreciation for the Army's assistance in developing tourism infrastructure in areas such as Mayudia and the revered waterfall at Yangtse near the border.

Plans for advancing the war memorial located in the Namti Valley of Walong in the Anjaw district were also reviewed.

The CMO representative stated that the Chief Minister and the visiting Army leaders further discussed tackling land issues, promoting the recruitment of local youth into the Army, honoring gallantry award recipients from Arunachal Pradesh, and examining ways to integrate Agniveers into state police and incorporate ex-servicemen into state government roles.

Highlighting the Army’s expanded involvement, Khandu remarked: “The Army is no longer just guarding our borders; it has become a key partner in Arunachal Pradesh’s development. Their contributions are evident in tourism initiatives across the state, enhancing connectivity, and generating economic prospects in forward areas. Such collaboration between the Army and the state not only fortifies national security but also stimulates local economies and transforms the region's landscape.”

The Chief Minister urged all MLAs and local administrations to actively engage with the Army in civilian endeavors and acknowledge their role as partners in the state's developmental trajectory.

The meeting concluded with a mutual pledge to persist in collaborative efforts to advance Arunachal Pradesh and contribute to the broader national vision.

Earlier on the same day, CoAS General Dwivedi visited Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General K.T. Parnaik (Retd.) at Raj Bhavan, where they discussed security matters, the Frontier Highway, and developmental initiatives within the state.

A Raj Bhavan source indicated that the Governor emphasized the necessity of a collaborative and community-centered approach in executing the Vibrant Village Programme, asserting that its success hinges on the united efforts of the government, local communities, and security forces.