Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various development works worth over Rs 5,100 crore in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh today. 

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, he extended reverence to the Almighty Donyi Polo, praying for blessings upon all. 

Prime Minister remarked that the journey from the helipad to the ground, meeting countless people along the way, and witnessing children and youth holding the national flag filled him with pride due to Arunachal Pradesh’s warm hospitality. 

He highlighted that Arunachal is not only the land of the rising sun but also a land of fervent patriotism. Just as the first colour of the national flag is saffron, Arunachal’s spirit too begins with saffron. 

Modi noted that every individual in Arunachal is a symbol of valour and simplicity. He expressed his deep affection for the state, stating that every visit brings him immense joy and that every moment spent with the people is memorable. He acknowledged the love and affection shown to him as a great honour. “From the Tawang Monastery to the Golden Pagoda in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh represents a confluence of peace and culture”, stated the Prime Minister saluting this sacred land, calling it the pride of Mother India.

Highlighting that his visit to Arunachal Pradesh today was special for three distinct reasons, the Prime Minister said that first, on the auspicious first day of Navratri, he had the privilege of witnessing the beautiful mountain ranges. He remarked that on this day, devotees worship Maa Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. Second, he announced the implementation of next-generation GST reforms across the country and the launch of the GST Savings Festival. Shri Modi noted that during the festive season, citizens have received a double bonanza. Third, he emphasized the inauguration of numerous development projects in Arunachal Pradesh ranging across sectors including power, connectivity, tourism, and health. The Prime Minister stated that this reflects the double benefit of their Governments at the Union and the state and extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Arunachal for these projects. He affirmed that the GST Savings Festival will bring in joy, prosperity and success to the people of India.

Mentioning that while Arunachal Pradesh is the first to receive the rays of the sun, it was unfortunate that the rays of rapid development took several decades to reach the region,  Modi recalled visiting Arunachal multiple times before 2014 and being among its people, noting that the state is abundantly blessed by nature—with its land, hardworking citizens, and immense potential. The Prime Minister highlighted that despite these strengths, those who governed from Delhi in earlier times consistently neglected Arunachal. He criticized few political parties for their mindset that Arunachal, with its small population and only two Lok Sabha seats, did not warrant attention.