China renames places in Arunachal for 5th time, says CM Khandu: “Nothing New for Us”

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has strongly condemned China's repeated attempts to rename places within the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, calling the move “preposterous” and asserting India's sovereignty.

“I have also seen in the media that China has attempted to rename a few places in Arunachal Pradesh. It's not a new thing for us; China has done it for the fifth time. Our MEA has condemned that. I condemn any such attempt on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh and the government,” said CM Khandu.

He also lauded the Centre’s response to terrorism, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the armed forces for taking decisive action. “I thank PM Modi and all our armed forces on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh for giving a befitting reply to terrorists in Pakistan,” he stated.

Reflecting on India's growing global engagement, Khandu highlighted the Centre's decision to send international delegations to counter global narratives on terrorism. He said, “It's the government's prerogative to select the members and the person who will lead the team. When we go outside the country, we represent the country and not any party. When it's about the country, we should come as a nation. Our domestic politics shouldn't be discussed at the international level.”

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CM Khandu credited India’s development trajectory to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, saying that before 2014, India lacked direction despite its immense cultural and economic potential. “After Independence, in the 60 years, there was no direction, and hence, our great country, like India, a rich nation with such heritage and culture, still couldn't advance further. After 2014, since PM Modi assumed power, India has found a direction.”

Speaking about Arunachal’s roadmap for development under the "Viksit Bharat 2047" mission, Khandu identified hydro power as the state’s “lowest-hanging fruit.” “Almost 40-50% of India's hydro power capacity exists in Arunachal Pradesh,” he added.

He also highlighted the importance of training for elected representatives. “All the BJP MLAs from Arunachal Pradesh have been receiving training since yesterday. It's a 4-day training programme. BJP is a party with a difference, and unlike other parties, we have our roadmap ready. The party's main aim is nation-building, the party comes second, and individuals at last,” he said, referring to the ongoing Arunachal Pradesh Legislators Prashikshan Sibir.