Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has emphasized the evolving role of the Indian Army as a key partner in the state’s development, extending beyond its traditional duty of guarding borders. In a significant meeting held on Thursday at the Civil Secretariat in Itanagar, Khandu engaged with Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and Lt. Gen. Abhijit S. Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Corps, to discuss collaborative efforts aimed at nation-building and boosting the state’s economy.
The discussions underscored the Army’s contributions to tourism projects across Arunachal Pradesh, including initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Programme, which has reportedly enhanced connectivity and created economic opportunities in forward areas.
Khandu highlighted specific projects such as tourism development in Mayudia and the Yangtse waterfall, as well as efforts to preserve war history and advance the Namti Valley war memorial. “The Army is no longer just guarding our borders; it has become a key partner in Arunachal Pradesh’s development,” Khandu stated, noting the visible transformation in the state’s economic landscape.
The meeting also addressed strategic issues, including land concerns, the recruitment of local youths into the Army, recognition for gallantry award winners from the state, and pathways for integrating Agniveers and ex-servicemen into state police and government services. General Dwivedi reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to extending its role beyond border security, aligning with national development goals.
This collaboration comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions along the India-China border, particularly following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, which has prompted India to accelerate infrastructure development in the region. The Vibrant Villages Programme, a government initiative launched in 2021, has already shown promising results, with a 2024 economic survey by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region reporting a 15% economic boost in pilot areas.
Khandu urged honorable members to actively involve the Army in civilian functions, positioning it as an active partner in the state’s developmental journey. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue working together for Arunachal Pradesh’s progress and the broader vision of nation-building, signaling a new era of military-civilian synergy in the frontier state.
