Arunachal: Aalo West MLA vows transformative changes, supports CM Khandu on Siang project

Topin Ete, the newly elected MLA of Aalo West Assembly Constituency in Arunachal Pradesh's West Siang district, has pledged to rejuvenate the region's development trajectory after a 15-year lag. Speaking exclusively to India Today, Ete committed to bringing transformative changes to his constituency and restoring its past glory.

Emphasizing the strategic importance of the Siang Multipurpose Project, Ete endorsed the initiative as a critical countermeasure to China's ongoing construction of a 60,000 MW dam on the Tsangpo River in Tibet. He revealed that legislators and intellectuals are actively engaging with anti-dam activists to raise awareness about the potential risks posed by the Chinese project while highlighting the importance of India's own infrastructure to mitigate future threats.

During the four-day-long Silver Jubilee Celebration of the Galo Welfare Society (GWS) held near the Yomgo River in Paya, Ete clarified that the event was autonomously organized by the GWS, with his support limited to logistical assistance since the venue falls within his constituency. He praised the GWS for its efforts to promote the rich Galo culture, traditions, and cuisine, which he described as gaining recognition akin to the famed Naga food.

Ete also spotlighted West Siang's renowned organic pineapples, asserting their superior quality compared to those from Meghalaya. He announced that the annual Pineapple Festival, hosted in Bagra village on January 22, is a key initiative to promote the district's produce across India and abroad.

The MLA expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Pema Khandu for sanctioning key projects, including five long-pending bridges, a PMGSY road, and the establishment of a permanent Chief Engineer's office for PHED in Bene village. He voiced concern over the delayed completion of the Aalo stadium, which is 80% finished, and urged for its timely conclusion.

Highlighting tourism opportunities, Ete underlined the potential of the Yomgo River for activities like water rafting and scenic tours. He referenced his previous Tiranga Yatra boat event as an example of promoting tourism and encouraged preserving traditional homes for use as homestays, catering to tourists seeking an authentic experience.

"Once elections are over, politics should take a back seat. It’s time to focus on development and work collectively, irrespective of political affiliations," Ete emphasized, reaffirming his vision for a united and progressive Aalo West.