Itanagar: The Arunachal Pradesh Assembly introduced four key bills on Thursday, marking a significant step toward improved governance and administrative reforms in the state.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who oversees the tax and excise portfolio, presented the Arunachal Pradesh Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aimed at updating the state’s GST framework established in 2017.
In his capacity as the minister for planning and investment, Mein also introduced the Arunachal Pradesh Arun Parivar Authority Bill, 2025.
The bill seeks to establish a robust legal framework for good governance, ensuring efficient, transparent, and targeted delivery of public welfare services to residents.
Land management minister Balo Raja proposed the Arunachal Pradesh Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Bill, which aims to amend the existing 2003 Act to strengthen measures against unauthorized occupancy of public premises.
Additionally, water resources minister Biyuram Wahge tabled the Arunachal Pradesh Flood Plain Zoning Bill, 2025.
This legislation is designed to regulate floodplain zoning and address river-related issues to mitigate flood risks in the state.
Tributes to former minister Medi Ram Dodum
The Assembly session began on a sombre note as members paid tribute to former minister Medi Ram Dodum, who passed away on September 1 last year after a prolonged illness.
Speaker Tesam Pongte led the obituary reference, describing Dodum as a veteran leader and a compassionate philanthropist. “His passing is a profound loss to the state, as he was a dedicated public servant who deeply impacted many lives,” Pongte remarked.
Dodum, born on August 5, 1955, entered politics in 1984, contesting the Doimukh-Sagalee Assembly seat as an independent candidate.
Though initially unsuccessful, he remained committed to public service, later joining the BJP in 1986 and then the Congress in 1988.
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In 1995, Dodum was elected from the Bameng Assembly constituency and appointed deputy minister of horticulture under the Gegong Apang government. By 1996, he was elevated to cabinet minister for horticulture and fisheries, a position he held until 1999.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein praised Dodum’s passion for social work and his enduring legacy, calling him an inspiration for future generations.
Home Minister Mama Natung highlighted Dodum’s contributions to social initiatives, including his instrumental role in establishing the by-laws for the Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society in 1979.
Dodum is survived by six children—three sons and three daughters. As a mark of respect, the Assembly observed a minute of silence and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, praying for his eternal peace.
