Face challenges head-on, avoiding them is not a solution: CM Khandu to DCs

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 17, 2025

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, addressing Deputy Commissioners (DCs) from across the state at the Sashakt Arunachal Conference, emphasized that avoiding challenges is not the way forward. Instead, proactive problem-solving and strategic action are key to driving governance and development.

“There will always be challenges, but finding solutions and moving ahead is the only way forward. It is said that humans use only about 9-10% of their brain capacity—if we push ourselves to use even 40-50%, we will find ways to overcome obstacles,” Khandu remarked in his closing address.

The Chief Minister highlighted that each district will now be evaluated based on its revenue contribution. He stressed the need for DCs to assess their district’s economic output and take corrective measures where needed.

“We will soon share data on how much revenue each district contributes to the state exchequer. This will help DCs understand where their districts stand and which sectors need attention to boost revenue,” he informed.

Khandu also announced that a detailed ‘Action to be Taken’ report will be provided to each district, with the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) monitoring progress and achievements.

To streamline governance, Khandu revealed that each non-engineering department will be assigned a specific working department to handle all infrastructure-related projects.

“For instance, the Public Health Engineering Department will now oversee all construction and renovation work for the Health Department. This will ensure better coordination and efficiency,” he explained.

He further reinforced the government’s commitment to decentralization by announcing that future Cabinet meetings will be held outside Itanagar, starting with Nyapin in Kurung Kumey district.

Khandu informed that major reforms in the education sector are in their final stages and will soon be placed before the Cabinet. He urged DCs to be prepared for swift implementation once approved.

Additionally, he instructed DCs to conduct brainstorming sessions at the district level by the end of January, using insights from the conference to draft localized development roadmaps.

Khandu directed DCs to identify underutilized or defunct assets—such as abandoned polytechnic buildings—and repurpose them for productive use.

The 2-day conference revolved around six thematic areas, each designed to address specific dimensions of governance and development. These included; Sundar Arunachal –Focusing on enhancing the state’s natural and cultural beauty, promoting eco-tourism, and preserving our unique heritage;Samridh Arunachal – Driving economic growth through sustainable use of resources, fostering entrepreneurship, and ensuring equitable wealth distribution; Shikshit Arunachal – Advancing education and skill development to empower our youth and create a knowledgeable society; Swasth Arunachal – Strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring access to quality healthcare for every citizen; Surakshit Arunachal – Enhancing safety, security, and disaster resilience across all districts; and Swachch Arunachal – Promoting cleanliness, sanitation, and environmental sustainability for a healthier future.