The fifth (Budget) Session of the Eighth Legislative Assembly began at the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday. This is the first sitting of the Special Session this year and will run for two days. In his address, Lt. General K.T. Parnaik, Governor, highlighted inclusive development, democratic governance, and infrastructure growth. He also expressed gratitude to the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting projects worth over Rs 5,100 crore and launching the GST Bachat Utsav.
The Governor noted that the State’s GDP has grown 2.6 times over the past decade, with a five-fold increase in State resources. Key initiatives include expansion of Donyi Polo Airport, National Highways, rural roads, and the Vibrant Villages Programme. He declared 2025–26 as the “Year of Human Capital,” with major allocations for education, health, skill development, and youth employment. Highlighting achievements in agriculture, organic farming, floriculture, and kiwi production, he also stressed the role of women-led Self-Help Groups. Hydropower was identified as a key growth engine, with 1.2 GW operational and 19 GW under development.
Tourism promotion, cultural preservation, and governance reforms, including digital initiatives and enhanced public safety, were also underscored. The Governor outlined five strategic commitments — human capital, livelihoods, ecological harmony, green energy, and sustainable tourism — urging members to advance people-centric policies and collective development goals. In the afternoon session, the Assembly observed a solemn start, paying tribute to former MLAs and leaders who recently passed away.
Among those remembered were Takar Marde, former Minister and Deputy Speaker (Jan 29); Kapchen Rajkumar of Khonsa North (July 21, 2025, wild elephant attack); Punji Mara of Taliha (Nov 18, 2025); Thinghap Taiju, former Minister from Changlang North (Aug 29, 2025); Nima Tsering Khrimey of Kalaktang (Feb 4, 2026); and Yadap Apang of Pasighat West (Dec 26, 2025). The Assembly expressed deep sorrow, appreciated their contributions to public service, and extended condolences to their families.
