Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday said Arunachal Pradesh's aggressive push towards hydropower generation could transform it into the richest state in the Northeast within the next decade, while stressing that development requires political consensus and public support.
Speaking during a discussion in the Assam Assembly, Sarma said Arunachal Pradesh has embarked on an ambitious plan to generate around 30,000 MW of electricity through hydropower projects, with no significant public agitation against the initiatives. He said projects to generate around 3,000 MW are already progressing, while work for nearly 10,000 MW has begun, adding that the state has now drawn up plans to reach 30,000 MW of installed capacity.
"If these hydropower projects are completed within the next 10 years, Arunachal Pradesh's GDP will be nearly double that of Assam," the Chief Minister said. Drawing a contrast with Assam, Sarma said even relatively small infrastructure projects often face prolonged opposition and delays.
"We sometimes take years to complete a small flyover because of protests and objections. Arunachal Pradesh, on the other hand, is moving ahead with large hydropower projects with the cooperation of the people," he said. The Chief Minister said several villages in Arunachal Pradesh have agreed to rehabilitation for the projects, with residents supporting relocation in the larger interest of the state's development.
According to Sarma, the willingness of people to accept difficult decisions for long-term economic gains has enabled Arunachal Pradesh to emerge as one of the fastest-growing states in the region. He also said the state is competing at a national level in infrastructure development and energy generation, adding that such initiatives would significantly strengthen its economy.
Sarma maintained that development-oriented policies, supported by people and governments working together, are essential for states to attract investment and accelerate economic growth. He made the remarks while participating in a debate on development and infrastructure in the ongoing budget session of the Assembly.