Arunachal – Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced plans to establish an airport at Anini in Dibang Valley district, close to the Indo-China border, while inaugurating a series of projects designed to strengthen tourism, connectivity, and decentralised governance in the frontier region.
The announcement came during a full Cabinet meeting held in Anini under the “Cabinet Aapke Dwar” initiative, marking the government’s outreach to one of the state’s most remote towns. Khandu inaugurated a District Hospital, Circuit House, District Panchayat Resource Centre, Panchayat Guest House-cum-Idu Mishmi Heritage Museum, a Sky Walk and Roller Coaster, and a Tourism Complex at Acheso. He said these facilities would not only improve civic amenities but also showcase Anini’s potential as a tourism destination.
The Chief Minister further unveiled plans for a High-Altitude Medicinal Plant Research Centre, a High-Altitude Trout Hatchery, new road projects to improve last-mile connectivity, solar street lighting across Anini town, and the introduction of a science stream at the Government Higher Secondary School. He described Anini as one of India’s most scenic locations and stressed that focused investment in border areas was essential for both tourism and community resilience.
On air connectivity, Khandu declared the proposed Anini airport a top priority, noting that feasibility surveys had already been conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Officials clarified that a detailed study for an Advanced Landing Ground would follow, given the district’s strategic location. “The Anini airport is a top priority for my government,” Khandu said, adding that improved access would transform the remote border district.
The Chief Minister also reiterated his commitment to the 3,096-megawatt Etalin hydropower project, calling it a “game-changer” for Arunachal Pradesh’s energy profile and revenue generation. He expressed concern over delays in the 73-km Greenfield road project and directed contractors to complete the work within a revised deadline.
