Itanagar, Apr 8: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Tuesday urged the 16th Finance Commission to consider a 'Green Bonus' for the state in recognition of its contribution to national carbon absorption and biodiversity conservation.
Addressing a meeting with the members of the Commission at the Chief Minister’s Office in Itanagar, Mein, who also holds the Finance portfolio, said Arunachal Pradesh's forest cover accounts for nearly 79 per cent of its total geographical area, playing a vital role in achieving the country's environmental goals.
He underscored the opportunity cost of forest preservation and stressed the need for adequate compensation to the state for maintaining ecological balance.
Highlighting Arunachal’s vulnerability to natural disasters like floods, landslides, and the impacts of climate change, the Deputy CM called for dedicated funding for building climate-resilient infrastructure, disaster management, and restoration of drying springs that serve as primary water sources for rural communities.
On the infrastructure front, Mein pointed out the state's challenging mountainous terrain, which significantly raises the cost of delivering services. He proposed a revision in the Cost Disability Index to ensure appropriate allocation under the Finance Commission’s formula.
Given Arunachal Pradesh’s strategic location, sharing over 1,800 km of international borders with Tibet, Myanmar, and Bhutan, Mein proposed the development of Model Border Villages with essential infrastructure including roads, electricity, healthcare, and education facilities.
Stressing the importance of economic development, the Deputy CM sought increased investment in agriculture, highlighting the potential for multi-cropping, diversified irrigation, and value-chain development in horticulture. He also pitched for support to harness the state’s untapped hydropower potential of over 58,000 Mw, which he said could contribute significantly to national energy security.
Mein requested the Commission to consider Arunachal Pradesh’s low population density, vast geographical spread, and high developmental costs while finalising financial devolution to ensure equity and adequacy in resource allocation.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to contribute to India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy, he said with the Commission’s support, Arunachal Pradesh could emerge as India’s eastern gateway and a green growth champion.
The meeting served as a crucial platform for the state to present its unique developmental challenges and aspirations before the 16th Finance Commission, officials said.
