Itanagar, Feb 21: Arunachal Pradesh on Friday celebrated its 40th Statehood Day with pride and renewed determination, as leaders reflected on four decades of progress and reaffirmed their commitment to building a developed and self-reliant state. Traditional cultural performances marked the event, showcasing the state’s rich heritage and spirit of unity.
Gracing the main event at IG Park here, Governor Lt General (Retd) KT Parnaik, in his address, described the occasion as not merely a celebration but a moment of introspection, determination and future-building.
Recalling that Arunachal Pradesh became a full-fledged state of the Indian Union on February 20, 1987, the Governor said the day symbolises the state’s constitutional journey, democratic maturity and the fulfilment of people’s aspirations.
Reflecting on four decades of progress, he said the state has made remarkable strides in education, healthcare, connectivity, digital development and cultural preservation despite challenging geographical conditions. He emphasised that Arunachal has embraced modern development while safeguarding its tribal heritage, languages and traditions.
Highlighting the strategic, economic and environmental significance of the frontier state, the Governor described Arunachal Pradesh as a frontline of national security and a vital pillar of India’s Act East Policy, serving as a gateway to Southeast Asia. Rich in hydropower potential, forest wealth and biodiversity, the state is poised to contribute significantly to energy self-reliance and environmental sustainability, he added.
The Governor appreciated the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, stating that the government’s development agenda is clear, practical and people-centric. The goal of a “Developed Arunachal”, he said, focuses on improved living standards, quality education, accessible healthcare, enhanced connectivity and transparent governance.
He also lauded Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and members of the Council of Ministers for strengthening transparency and accountability in governance, guided by the principle of maximum governance and minimum government.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju for their continued support, the Governor said the past decade has marked a transformative phase for the state.
Among key achievements, he cited major infrastructure projects such as the Trans-Arunachal Highway, Frontier Highway, Sela Tunnel, railway expansion and Donyi Polo Airport, which have significantly improved connectivity. The energy sector has gained momentum with major hydropower projects, and 2025-2035 has been declared the “Decade of Hydropower.”
He further highlighted advancements in digital governance, women’s empowerment through self-help groups and “Lakhpati Didis,” and youth-focused sports initiatives. He said youth empowerment remains central, with initiatives in skill development, startups, sports promotion and the declaration of 2025–26 as the “Year of Human Resources.”
In the social sector, schemes like CMAAY and Ayushman Bharat have improved healthcare access, while Mission Shiksha and strengthened Industrial Training Institutes are enhancing educational and skill development opportunities. Efforts to promote agriculture, MSMEs, startups and natural farming are helping transform youth into job creators, he said.
At the same time, the Governor acknowledged challenges such as difficult terrain, landslides, digital gaps in remote areas, shortage of doctors and teachers, migration from border villages, drug abuse among youth and environmental concerns. He stressed the need to ensure peace and security in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts to sustain development and public confidence.
Emphasizing technology-driven governance, he called for digital land surveys and geospatial mapping to enhance transparency, reduce disputes and accelerate development. Initiatives such as “Government at Your Doorstep”, he said, aim to bring administration closer to the people and ensure timely delivery of services.
Calling for unity and collective resolve, the Governor urged citizens to protect cultural heritage, prioritise environmental conservation, ensure equal opportunities for youth and women, eliminate corruption and contribute towards making “Developed Arunachal” an integral part of “Developed India.”
“This is not just a moment of celebration, but of responsibility,” he said, adding that the decisions taken today will shape the future of generations to come.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Pema Khandu stated that hydropower will drive the State’s next phase of economic transformation. He appreciated the Nyishi community of Kamle, Kra-Daadi and Kurung Kumey districts for their unanimous support to the Kamla Hydropower Project.
The Chief Minister also informed that the Union Cabinet has approved the 33.7-km four-lane Gohpur–Numaligarh corridor with India’s first twin-tube underwater rail-cum-road tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River, which will significantly improve connectivity and logistics for Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast.
He added that with the launch of the Namchik-Namphuk coal block and exploration of strategic minerals like graphite, the State’s economic prospects are expanding further.
Calling upon young people to contribute to the vision of Viksit Arunachal 2047, he encouraged constructive participation within constitutional values.
Khandu also emphasized the need to preserve cultural identity alongside modern development, especially among the youth, and highlighted initiatives to safeguard local languages through institutional support and cultural exchanges.
Later, the Governor, along with the Chief Minister, inaugurated the exhibition stalls put up at the venue, showcasing innovation, local enterprise, and the vibrant spirit of the people.