Khonsa road declared ‘Top Priority’ as Arunachal Assembly debates rural infrastructure, passes five bills

The second day of the Budget Session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly saw a mix of major legislative action and urgent concerns raised by lawmakers over rural infrastructure and public services across the state. Led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the Assembly on Monday passed five significant reform bills aimed at strengthening governance, modernising state institutions and improving administrative efficiency in Arunachal Pradesh.

During Question Hour, several legislators raised issues related to road connectivity, public health and community welfare. Responding to a query by MLA Wanglin Lowangdong, the Chief Minister assured the House that the road in Khonsa town would be treated as a “top priority” project, acknowledging the urgent need for better infrastructure in the region.

Minister Kento Jini addressed concerns raised by MLA Hayeng Mangfi regarding the development of the Puroik Autonomous Board, stating that future initiatives for the community would be guided by research-based planning to ensure sustainable progress.

On another issue, Home Minister Mama Natung informed MLA Laisam Simai that the matter of compassionate appointments in the police department would be examined and deliberated upon in the coming days.

Health Minister Biyuram Wahge also responded to concerns raised by MLA Kumar Waii regarding healthcare facilities in remote areas. He confirmed that the government is considering the establishment of a permanent facility for the Primary Health Centre in Bameng to improve healthcare access for local residents.

During Zero Hour, road connectivity again emerged as a key issue. Public Works Department Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona informed the House that about 97 percent of road projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in the state have been physically completed, with 1,264 out of 1,309 projects finished.

However, he admitted that several “missing links” in connectivity still remain. Sona said there is a need to move towards an “equitable funding model” that considers the unique geographical challenges of the Himalayan region, including landslides, difficult terrain and shorter working seasons for construction projects.

A major highlight of the day was the passage of five important bills aimed at strengthening governance and institutional frameworks in the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein introduced the Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill to align the state’s fiscal policies with national standards.

Home Minister Mama Natung presented the Fire and Emergency Services Bill, which aims to modernise the state’s emergency response systems and improve safety mechanisms.

Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing introduced the Local Authorities (Prohibition of Defection) Bill, aimed at ensuring political stability and preventing defections in local bodies, including Panchayats and municipal councils.

Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja tabled the Urban and Country Planning Bill, which seeks to guide planned urban growth and better land-use management in the state.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona introduced the Salaries, Allowances and Pension of Members Bill, updating the compensation and welfare framework for members of the Assembly.

With the legislative agenda for the day completed, attention now shifts to the financial roadmap for the state. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein is scheduled to present the 2026–27 State Budget on Tuesday, which is expected to outline how the government plans to balance economic growth with the pressing infrastructure and development needs raised by legislators during the session.