ITANAGAR, Jul 16: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday called upon the state’s Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to collaborate with the government in achieving self-sustenance, enhancing state-owned resources, and converting these resources into revenue.
During the pre-budget consultative meeting with CBOs at the Chief Minister's Office, Khandu highlighted the valuable suggestions previously provided by CBOs, especially in the health and education sectors, which have been incorporated into the state’s annual budgets with significant benefits.
Emphasizing inclusive governance, Khandu stated that pre-budget consultative meetings are integral to the state budget preparation process. He identified hydropower and tourism as key sectors that can significantly boost state-owned resources. He assured that hydropower projects would be implemented only with the consent of local communities.
“Hydropower is crucial for revenue generation. Our annual revenue of about Rs 500 crore can increase to over Rs 1000 crore in the next 5-10 years if the proposed hydropower projects are executed successfully. However, no project will proceed without local community consent,” Khandu said.
He informed that Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed with reputable central government agencies like NHPC, NEEPCO, NTPC, and SJVN, excluding private and unreliable companies.
Khandu urged the CBOs to communicate the benefits of harnessing the state’s hydropower potential to their communities, emphasizing that it could make Arunachal Pradesh self-sustainable. He also highlighted tourism as a potential game-changer, advocating for high-end tourism to benefit local communities, generate youth employment, and protect the environment.
“With the Inner Line Permit system and a proper policy, we can control and regulate the tourism sector to benefit local communities, generate income for youth, and contribute to the state’s resources while preserving our environment,” he said.
Khandu drew parallels with Bhutan’s tourism policy, suggesting a similar approach for the state. He encouraged CBOs to motivate their communities to invest in homestays and high-end hotels to attract affluent tourists.
Additionally, Khandu addressed the issue of money-for-vote culture prevalent in recent elections, urging CBOs to combat this practice to end corruption. He emphasized that corruption begins when money is exchanged for votes.
Expressing gratitude to the CBOs for their support and feedback, Khandu stated, “Your voices have shaped our budget, ensuring every community in Arunachal Pradesh is heard and their concerns addressed. Through this collaborative spirit, we’ve incorporated many invaluable suggestions, driving inclusive growth and sustainable development.”