PM Modi Inaugurates Development Projects Worth Over ₹5,100 Crore in Arunachal Pradesh, Launches GST Reforms

Itanagar, 22 September 2025- Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth over ₹5,100 crore in Arunachal Pradesh today. Speaking at the event, he described the state as a land of culture, peace, and patriotism, praising its people for their hard work, simplicity, and warm hospitality. He noted that Arunachal represents the first rays of the Indian sun and symbolically aligns with the spirit of the nation.

Modi highlighted that his visit was significant for three reasons: it coincided with the first day of Navratri, the launch of next-generation GST reforms and the GST Savings Festival, and the inauguration of key development projects in sectors including power, health, connectivity, and tourism. He emphasized that these initiatives reflect the collaborative efforts of both the Union and State governments to improve citizens’ lives.

Recalling past neglect of the Northeast, the Prime Minister noted that earlier governments often ignored Arunachal despite its natural resources and strategic importance. Under his administration, the region has become a development priority, with increased budgets, focused infrastructure projects, and frequent visits by officials to ensure effective governance. He highlighted that Arunachal’s share of central taxes increased from ₹6,000 crore under previous regimes to over ₹1 lakh crore since 2014, not including other developmental spending.

Modi outlined the government’s efforts to simplify daily life through programs such as Ease of Living, Ease of Travel, Ease of Medical Treatment, Ease of Education, and Ease of Doing Business. Projects like the Sela Tunnel, new heliports, and the upgraded Hollongi Airport terminal connecting directly to Delhi are examples of enhanced infrastructure improving connectivity and promoting tourism and local business.

On energy, the Prime Minister inaugurated two hydroelectric projects—the 240 MW Heo Project and 186 MW Tato-I Project—which will strengthen Arunachal’s power production, generate employment, and contribute to India’s renewable energy goals. He also praised the Vibrant Village Programme, which has accelerated development in over 450 border villages, providing roads, electricity, internet access, and transforming them into tourism and economic hubs.

Modi highlighted initiatives supporting agriculture, horticulture, and women’s empowerment, including working women’s hostels and the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. He emphasized that GST reforms, simplifying rates to 5% and 18% and reducing taxes on essential items, would ease household budgets. He also encouraged citizens to embrace Swadeshi products, reinforcing India’s self-reliance mission.

The event was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Pema Khandu, and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. The Prime Minister concluded by underscoring the importance of regional development in alignment with national objectives, urging collective efforts to achieve a self-reliant and prosperous India by 2047.