ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh has received extra assistance from the Centre, surpassing allocations under standard central schemes, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram informed Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik during a meeting on Thursday at Raj Bhavan.
The minister noted that 17 central ministries, including those handling housing, health, education, telecommunications, and sports, are providing this additional support to the state.
Their collaboration aims to enhance welfare measures for Arunachal’s tribal communities, a statement from the Raj Bhavan revealed.
Governor Parnaik emphasised the importance of adopting a focused strategy to drive integrated socio-economic development in the state.
He called for special central assistance to address pressing issues in education, health, agriculture, skill development, and employment sectors.
Parnaik advocated for the establishment of more Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in remote areas to ensure quality education for tribal children.
“These schools will lay a strong foundation for higher and professional education, unlocking diverse employment opportunities for students,” he stated.
The governor also highlighted the remarkable achievements of tribal youth from Arunachal Pradesh in sports.
He urged the minister to consider setting up a state-of-the-art sports centre of excellence equipped with advanced training facilities, scientific support, and comprehensive resources.
“With such a facility, our youth could excel further, bringing national and international recognition to the country,” Parnaik added.
Discussions also touched upon improving tribal livelihoods and fostering entrepreneurship.
The governor stressed the need to boost opportunities for tribal artisans in the northeastern states through better procurement, logistics, and marketing of their products.
Minister Oram appreciated the governor’s suggestions and assured him that the central government would address Arunachal Pradesh’s unique needs.
The meeting underscored a shared commitment to uplifting the state’s tribal communities through targeted interventions and sustained support.