NAMSAI (Arunachal Pradesh): Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr. Jitendra Singh began his visit to Namsai district in Arunachal Pradesh on sunday marking a significant push for development under the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP).
Soon after his arrival, the Union Minister, accompanied by the Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein, convened a high level meeting of the administration to review “Performance Indicators” of the peripheral Northeast Aspirational District of Namsai.
The three-day visit aims to assess progress, address challenges, and bolster efforts to transform the region into a model of inclusive growth.
Earlier, upon his arrival, Dr Jitendra Singh was warmly received by Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Sri Chowna Mein, senior officials, and members of the district administration. Following the ceremonial welcome, the dignitaries joined Dr. Jitendra Singh in a review meeting to discuss the district’s development initiatives and explore strategies for further improvement.
The visit aligns with a recent directive by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, encouraging Union Ministers to spend at least 48 hours in aspirational districts, emphasizing proactive involvement in evaluating progress and guiding future development strategies. This initiative aims to ensure that the parameters of these districts are comparable to the best-performing regions within the state and across the country.
During the visit, the Minister is reviewing the efficiency of administrative mechanisms and the performance indicators used to monitor development in the district. By closely examining key sectors like health, nutrition, education, and basic infrastructure, the goal is to identify areas that require immediate attention and long-term strategies for improvement.
“The Aspirational Districts Programme has demonstrated that focused convergence, collaboration, and competition can bring about transformative change,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said. “By empowering local administrations and fostering accountability, we are creating pathways for these districts to rise to the same level as their more developed counterparts.”
The ADP has shown remarkable results over the past five years, with many districts witnessing significant improvements in institutional births, educational outcomes, and agricultural productivity. As part of the review, the Minister is evaluating how effectively centrally sponsored schemes are being implemented on the ground, identifying best practices and gaps.
The findings and recommendations from the Namsai visit will contribute to a comprehensive report to be submitted by December 15, 2024. This report will help refine policies to ensure sustainable and inclusive development in the region.
Residents and officials alike have expressed optimism about the visit. “This level of engagement from the government reassures us that our challenges are being heard,” said a senior official from the district administration. The Minister’s presence and proactive involvement underscore the government’s commitment to creating a future where even the most underdeveloped regions can thrive.
Dr. Jitendra Singh’s visit is a testament to the government’s vision of inclusive growth, ensuring that every region becomes a vital contributor to the nation’s development journey.
The Aspirational Districts Programme, conceptualized under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, continues to inspire innovative approaches for addressing regional disparities and fostering sustainable development.
