What is the 'Shikshit Arunachal 2029' Mission? CM Khandu Launches Projects Worth Rs 750 Cr

Itanagar, May 30 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative, Chief Minister Pema Khandu of Arunachal Pradesh has taken a significant step forward by virtually launching the foundation stone for a range of infrastructure development projects across the state, valued at Rs 750 crore.

Following the laying of the foundation stones, the Chief Minister emphasized that these projects align with the state government's dedication to effectively realize the 'Shikshit Arunachal 2029' Mission adopted by the state.

According to an official from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), these initiatives are set to be executed under the Education department and implemented by the Rural Works Department (RWD) during the ongoing financial year 2025-26.

A significant portion of this initiative focuses on advancing various educational infrastructure projects, which include upgrading 39 government higher secondary schools under the SASCI (Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment) scheme with a budget of Rs 300 crore and constructing 156 hostels and teachers’ quarters in all districts under SASCI with Rs 322 crore.

The CMO representative noted that 14 large-capacity hostels (120 beds each) under the DAJGUA (Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan) scheme will cost Rs 71.40 crore, along with 60 bachelor barracks in rural schools costing Rs 9 crore, infrastructure development of Arunachal University in Pasighat for Rs 30 crore, and the construction of 394 kitchen sheds cum stores for the PM Poshan scheme at a cost of Rs 23.64 crore.

As part of the Shikshit Arunachal 2029 Mission, the Chief Minister stated that all infrastructural requirements of government schools would be met, accompanied by policy decisions aimed at revitalizing the state's education system. Khandu reiterated that non-functioning schools or those with zero attendance would be shut down, and the inter-village school model would be introduced.

“Over the years, our focus on quantity has compromised quality. Under this Shikshit Arunachal Mission, we aim to elevate our education standards to a world-class level by 2029,” he revealed. Khandu expressed confidence that under the proficient leadership of Education Minister P.D. Sona, the mission will be accomplished as planned.

He applauded the Rural Works Department and Education departments for their significant responsibilities and urged the officers and officials of RWD to ensure quality and adhere to timelines for completion.

Present at the event were Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, Advisor to Education Minister Mutchu Mithi, and senior officials from the RWD and Education Departments.