
OUR CORRESPONDENT
ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday emphasized the historical, cultural, and economic importance of Nampong, a frontier town in Changlang district.
He noted that for centuries, this region has served as a vital point for migration, trade, and cultural exchange, connecting Northeast India with Southeast Asia through paths like the sacred migration routes of ancestors and the historic Stilwell Road.
Inaugurating the three-day Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF) at Nampong, Khandu highlighted the festival as a perfect example of blending culture with the economy.
"Through folk songs, traditional sports, and expeditions to historical sites, we celebrate our heritage while paving the way for a prosperous future," he said.
The event also provides a platform for local artisans, traders, and entrepreneurs to showcase their skills and products, fostering economic growth and self-reliance, an official statement said here.
The chief minister reiterated the state government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and connectivity to support tourism in the Tirap, Changlang, and Longding (TCL) region.
With the inclusion of these three districts into a tourist circuit and improvements in connectivity, he assured that tourism in the region would thrive due to its rich potential.
"The double-lane National Highway connecting Jairampur, Nampong, and Pangsau Pass marks a step forward. Under the leadership of our Prime Minister and the central government, we are witnessing unprecedented development in railway, road, and air connectivity, ensuring seamless travel and trade," Khandu said.
The chief minister also announced that the 2,500 km Frontier Highway will stretch from Nafra in West Kameng to Vijaynagar in Changlang.
Along with the interconnecting corridor roads, this initiative will significantly transform the state's road connectivity, leading to accelerated development in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in the TCL region, he pointed out. As Nampong holds historical significance due to its role during World War II, the state government plans to curate and restore the remnants of the war, redeveloping them for tourism.
"We will soon engage experts to give a new life to Nampong town, turning it into a reminder of the bygone era of World War II," he said.
Discussing 'decentralization' of power, Khandu revealed that the state government will hold cabinet meetings across different districts. These meetings will focus on addressing region-specific issues.
The chief minister also laid foundation stones for four new projects and inaugurated five others in the Nampong assembly constituency. Additionally, he announced the sanctioning of projects worth Rs 43 crores for the constituency.
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