NAMSAI, June 10, 2023 — Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted the significance of civil societies in fostering inclusive and sustainable development during his speech at the inaugural session of the C20 summit held in Namsai today. He expressed the state government’s commitment to promoting an environment of “Jan Bhagidari” (people’s participation) and “Jan Samvad” (public dialogue), acknowledging the invaluable expertise, local knowledge, and community-driven initiatives brought forth by civil society organizations.
Khandu commended the C20 summit as an exceptional platform for global dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among civil society organizations. He emphasized the summit’s potential to propel social and economic development, ensuring that no one is left behind. Referring to India’s Amrit Kaal initiative, the Chief Minister emphasized India’s mission to work towards a shared global future, leveraging the completion of nine years of ‘Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan’ under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Chief Minister credited the unparalleled progress of Arunachal Pradesh to the unwavering dedication of civil society organizations, particularly highlighting the active involvement of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). He revealed that the state government actively engages with CBOs during the preparation of the State General Budget, valuing their voices, needs, and aspirations to design inclusive and effective development strategies. Khandu further mentioned the signing of a Joint 21-point vision document following an interactive discussion with CBOs held on April 12.
To strengthen the partnership between the state government and CBOs, Khandu proudly shared his experience leading a delegation of CBOs on a transformative journey to Ahmedabad, the iconic Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat, and New Delhi. During this historic meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the CBO members, igniting renewed passion and reinforcing their collective resolve to steer Arunachal Pradesh as the growth engine in India’s Amrit Kaal.
Highlighting the achievements of the state, Khandu stated that Arunachal Pradesh witnessed significant progress, with the state GSDP more than doubling and per capita income increasing by over 85%. The pace of road construction multiplied nine times, hydropower energy generation witnessed manifold growth, and numerous new schools, hospitals, and airports were built and upgraded. The state also placed a strong emphasis on agriculture, allied sectors, eco-tourism, and sustainable tourism. Notably, Arunachal Pradesh achieved a record recovery rate of over 99% during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Khandu attributed the state’s unprecedented growth and development to the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas” (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth). He emphasized that these transformative changes were made possible through the collective endeavors of Team Arunachal, promoting greater collaboration and cooperation.
The C20 summit in Namsai is witnessing the participation of delegates from various countries, including Armenia, Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Mexico, Myanmar, Netherlands, Philippines, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, the United States, and Venezuela. Additionally, representatives from all community-based organizations of Arunachal Pradesh and civil societies are in attendance.
The C20 summit aims to foster global partnerships and initiatives to address pressing social and economic challenges, leveraging the active participation of civil society organizations worldwide.