The Arunachal Pradesh government has officially declared the period from 2025 to 2035 as the “Decade of Hydropower.” This announcement was made during a special Cabinet meeting focused on implementing strategic decisions that aim to provide long-term economic and environmental advantages to the state. A key initiative discussed was the establishment of an escrow account designed to manage the revenues from free power shares associated with ongoing and future Hydroelectric Projects (HEPs). It is anticipated that the state will generate annual revenues of ₹4,525 crore starting in 2035, backed by nearly 19 GW of HEPs currently under development, with total investments exceeding ₹2 lakh crore.
According to a government statement, “This mechanism will ensure that the benefits of free power are strategically invested in the state’s long-term development, job creation, and infrastructure growth.” During the meeting, Cabinet members emphasized that hydropower is set to become the cornerstone of Arunachal Pradesh’s economy, necessitating a balanced approach involving mega, large, and small projects. A reliable regulatory and industrial framework will also be put in place to foster employment, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance among the state’s youth.
The Cabinet also revisited the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), recognized as a “National Project” by the central government in 2008. Officials underscored the project’s significance for national security while also addressing public concerns regarding its environmental and social repercussions. To tackle these challenges, the Cabinet stressed the importance of transparent community engagement with Project Affected Families (PAFs), fair compensation, and resettlement measures, as well as the necessity of preparing a Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) based on consensus-building.
Additionally, the Cabinet decided to establish the New Yingkiong Development Authority and the New Geku Development Authority to create forward-thinking towns in the Upper Siang region. The Urban Development Department was tasked with surveying a “necklace road” along both banks of the Siang River, which lies above the potential submergence areas. A committee led by the Secretary of Land Management will be formed to review compensation standards for land and properties and propose a comprehensive Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) Plan.
Furthermore, the Cabinet resolved to pursue a special development package from the central government for the Siang and Upper Siang districts, focusing on social development schemes that directly benefit the community. By making these decisions, Arunachal Pradesh is taking significant strides toward becoming India’s hydropower capital while emphasizing inclusivity, sustainable development, and national energy security.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/arunachal-pradesh/story/arunachal-commits-to-fair-compensation-for-sump-affected-families-1228720-2025-06-13?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-06-13 22:28:00
