President Droupadi Murmu said that Arunachal Pradesh is an important part of India and is a major stakeholder in the central government’s Act East Policy.

The President said this while addressing the special session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in Itanagar today. She said that North-Eastern Region has long been deprived of the benefits of economic development due to a lack of road, rail and air connectivity. She added that the Union Government is giving top priority to connectivity and development in the Northeast.

She said that with rich natural resources and quality human resources, Arunachal Pradesh has full potential to become an attractive investment destination and the state has the capability to become Natural Fruit Bowl of the country.

The President said that discipline and decorum are the hallmarks of the parliamentary system. She said members must ensure that the content and quality of the debate is of the highest standard. She added that there is a need to build a consensus on the issues of development and public welfare.

Smt Murmu said that in today’s era, environment pollution and climate change are critical issues and needs to be addressed quickly. She said for a geographically sensitive state like Arunachal Pradesh, these issues become very important. She appreciated the Arunachal Pradesh Government for taking important decisions on environment protection in the ‘Pakke Declaration’. The President expressed hope that other states will also take inspirations from this initiative and shall adopt this model.

The President later inaugurated a photo exhibition on the Unsung Heroes of Arunachal Pradesh at the Assembly premises. Smt Murmu was on a two-day visit to Arunachal Pradesh, to attend the state’s Statehood day celebration starting February 20.