Arunachal Pradesh boosts higher education with new college infrastructure

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on April 16 inaugurated three infrastructure projects at Dera Natung Government College, aimed at strengthening higher education facilities in the state.

The projects include a new administrative block, a prefabricated badminton-cum-judo hall, and a recreation hall, catering to around 4,600 students and faculty across arts, science, and commerce streams.

Speaking at the event, Khandu said the initiative addresses critical infrastructure gaps in educational institutions. He also highlighted recent additions at the college, including the anthropology department, boys’ and girls’ hostels, and expansion of the academic building, while assuring support for further requirements such as additional classrooms.

Paying tribute to former education minister Dera Natung, the chief minister noted the college’s academic progress under principal M Q Khan and emphasized its role in shaping youth in the state.

He underscored the importance of sports infrastructure, stating that the new facilities would help promote discipline and leadership among students. Referring to Arunachal Pradesh’s performance at the Khelo India Tribal Games, where the state ranked fifth nationally and first in the Northeast, he encouraged students to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Khandu also announced full government sponsorship for students admitted to the world’s top 150 universities and spoke about "Mission Shikshit Arunachal 2029," which aims to align the state’s education system with the National Education Policy 2020.

The chief minister emphasized the role of technology in education, including artificial intelligence initiatives and the establishment of Vidya Samiksha Kendras for real-time monitoring. He said two science centers with planetariums in Namsai and Dirang have been approved to promote scientific learning.

Highlighting economic growth areas, he stressed the need for skill development in sectors such as hydropower, MSMEs, startups, and entrepreneurship. He referred to schemes like the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Swavalamban Yojana and plans for an investment park, along with the creation of an "Arunachal Creative Economy" cell to support local arts, music, and weaving.

He urged students to focus on discipline and innovation and assured continued government support for the institution.

The event was attended by advisor to the home and education minister Muchu Mithi; corporator Techi Mema; private education regulatory commission member Joram Anya; deputy commissioner Toko Babu; higher and technical education director Milorai Modi; and principal M Q Khan.