Arunachal CM pushes border infrastructure drive, announces airport for Anini near Indo-China frontier

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Sunday, February 1, unveiled a multi-crore infrastructure push at Anini, the remote headquarters of Dibang Valley district near the Indo-China border, announcing plans for a new airport and inaugurating a slew of projects aimed at boosting tourism, connectivity and reverse migration.

In an unprecedented move to underline decentralised governance, the Chief Minister convened a full Cabinet meeting at Anini, followed by the inauguration and foundation-laying of key infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores. The initiatives are part of the state’s broader strategy to strengthen India’s border areas through development, improved civic facilities and livelihood opportunities.

Among the major projects inaugurated were a District Hospital, Circuit House, District Panchayat Resource Centre, Panchayat Guest House-cum-Idu Mishmi Heritage Museum, Sky Walk and Roller Coaster, and a Tourism Complex at Acheso. The government also announced upcoming projects including a High-Altitude Medicinal Plant Research Centre, a High-Altitude Trout Hatchery and several strategic road works to enhance last-mile connectivity in the frontier district.

Describing Anini as one of India’s most scenic destinations, Chief Minister Khandu said focused infrastructure development in border regions was essential not only for tourism promotion but also for strengthening local communities. He said holding Cabinet meetings in border towns reflected the government’s commitment to decentralisation of power and participatory planning.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the proposed 3,096-megawatt Etalin hydropower project in Dibang Valley would be a “game-changer” for Arunachal Pradesh, significantly boosting revenue generation and strengthening the state’s energy profile.

Khandu also announced that Anini would get an airport, stating that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Civil Aviation had already conducted feasibility surveys. “The Anini airport is a top priority for my government,” he said, adding that improved air connectivity would transform access to the remote border district.

To promote sustainable development, the Chief Minister announced the installation of solar street lights across Anini town. Expressing concern over delays in the construction of the 73-km Greenfield road project, Khandu directed contractors to complete the work within a revised deadline.

Arunachal East MP Tapir Gao, speaking exclusively to India Today, described Anini as “the most beautiful hill station in the country,” saying those who had not seen Anini had “missed everything,” citing its pristine environment, waterfalls and dramatic landscapes.

Meanwhile, the Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department, Anini, appealed to residents to make responsible use of the newly inaugurated Dibang Guest House and to maintain the hygiene and sanctity of public infrastructure.