PM Modi Highlights Investment in Northeast's Clean Energy Projects
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New Delhi/Itanagar, April 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized on Wednesday that his administration is enhancing India’s clean energy ecosystem while promoting growth in the Northeast region.
These remarks followed the approval from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), which he chairs, for a substantial investment of Rs 14,105.83 crore aimed at developing the Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project (HEP) located on the Lohit river in Anjaw district, Arunachal Pradesh.
Moreover, the CCEA has sanctioned an additional investment of Rs 26,069.50 crore for the Kamala Hydro Electric Project (HEP), which will span the districts of Kamle, Kra Daadi, and Kurung Kumey in Arunachal Pradesh.
In a post on his X account, Prime Minister Modi stated: "With the Cabinet's endorsement of the Kamala Hydro Electric Project, we are reinforcing India’s clean energy framework while facilitating comprehensive development across Arunachal Pradesh, focusing on power, infrastructure, and community welfare."
He further noted, "The approval for the Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project signifies a significant advancement in clean energy and development in the Northeast! This initiative will bolster power supply, foster sustainable energy, and enhance infrastructure and opportunities for the region."
Pema Khandu, the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister for endorsing the two significant hydropower projects within the state.
In a statement on his X handle, Khandu remarked: "My heartfelt thanks to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji for approving the Rs 14,105 crore Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project in Anjaw district. With a capacity of 1,200 MW, this project on the Lohit river will enhance power supply, promote grid stability, and drive infrastructure and job creation in the region."
In another update, Khandu added: "I am thankful to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji for the approval of the Kamala Hydro Electric Project worth Rs 26,069 crore. This 1,720 MW project will not only strengthen India’s energy security but will also catalyze infrastructure growth, generate employment, and uplift livelihoods across Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in remote areas."
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who oversees the Power and Non-Conventional Energy Resources departments, also shared the Chief Minister’s sentiments, thanking the Prime Minister.
The anticipated completion time for the Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project on the Lohit river in Anjaw district is 78 months, while the Kamala Hydro Electric Project across Kamle, Kra Daadi, and Kurung Kumey districts is set to be completed in 96 months.
Earlier, Chief Minister Khandu highlighted the state's immense natural resource potential and reiterated the government’s resolve to transform these assets into sustainable revenue through carefully crafted policies.
A senior representative from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) indicated that the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is projected to produce 2,000 MW of power by December 2026, establishing it as the largest hydroelectric project in India. Initiated in 2001, the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project has been cited as a crucial example of the "Viksit Bharat" vision. Despite prior challenges due to protests, the project has gained momentum in recent years.
Officials pointed out that a considerable portion of the machinery is already operational, and upon completion, the project will significantly boost India’s power generation capabilities. Furthermore, other hydropower projects with a combined capacity nearing 19,000–20,000 MW are at various stages of development throughout the state, the official added.