Arunachal Cabinet Reviews Assam Border Dispute, Approves Major Development Plans

The Cabinet decided to extend the Chief Minister’s Bal Seva Scheme (CMBSS) beyond COVID orphans.

The Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, has taken key decisions on state development, including the issue of Assam-Arunachal boundary dispute.

The Cabinet reviewed the detailed status and progress of the Assam-Arunachal boundary matter. Other major policy decisions include expanding social welfare schemes and approving financial incentives for the Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project.

The Cabinet decided to extend the Chief Minister’s Bal Seva Scheme (CMBSS) beyond COVID orphans. Now, all orphaned children in the state who are registered under the Baal Swaraj Portal, living in child care institutions, or declared as ‘Children in Need of Care and Protection’ under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, will receive support.

Under this scheme, each eligible child will get Rs. 1,500 per month until they turn 18. Additionally, children in Class 11, college, or vocational courses will receive a laptop or tablet. The government aims to provide financial relief and educational support to ensure the well-being of these children.

The Cabinet has increased pension amounts under the CM’s Social Security Scheme (CMSSS) by Rs. 300 per month for elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and widows. The government also lowered the minimum age for widows to receive pensions from 40 years to 18 years, making the Chief Minister’s Widow Pension Scheme universal. These enhancements will benefit over 50,000 people and cost the state Rs. 18.50 crore annually.

The government has also approved a 50% SGST reimbursement for the 1200 MW Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project, which will be developed on the Lohit River in Anjaw district. The project, with an estimated cost of Rs. 14,000 crore, will be implemented by the central public sector undertaking THDCIL in partnership with the state government.

Once operational, Kalai-II is expected to generate Rs. 318 crore in free power and Rs. 2.2 crore annually for the Local Area Development Fund. The project will create 1,700 direct jobs, with priority given to local residents. Infrastructure development, including roads, healthcare, and education, will also see improvements, boosting economic growth in the region.

The Cabinet approved the restructuring of the Rural Development (RD) department by appointing deputy directors in all districts to oversee the implementation of central schemes. This change follows the discontinuation of the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) by the central government in 2022. The move aims to strengthen governance, improve monitoring, and ensure effective execution of rural development programs.

Also Read: GEPL Starts Drilling Activities in Arunachal Pradesh

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