Arunachal Pradesh expands: Cabinet approves creation of two new districts
In a significant move ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, the Arunachal Pradesh cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, approved the creation of two new districts – Keyi Panyor and Bichom, which brings the total number of districts in the state to 28. This decision aims to improve administrative accessibility and fulfill long-standing demands from the regions.
Announcing the decision on X, Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the government’s commitment to decentralization and inclusive development. “In order to ensure hassle-free access to administration, today’s Cabinet meeting gave its nod to the creation of two new districts – Keyi Panyor with HQ at Yachuli, and Bichom District headquartered in Napangphung. We’re firm in meeting our people’s aspirations and honouring commitments made to them. Always at their disposal to serve them! ,” he said.
In order to ensure hassle-free access to administration, today's Cabinet meeting gave its nod to the creation of two new districts – Keyi Panyor with HQ at Yachuli, and Bichom District headquartered in Napangphung. We're firm in meeting our people's aspirations and honouring… pic.twitter.com/SD8eOWYGTX
— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) February 5, 2024
Keyi Panyor district, carved out from the Lower Subansiri district, will have its headquarters in Yachuli circle. This fulfills the aspirations of local communities and respects traditional boundaries, as emphasized by government spokesperson Bamang Felix.
Bichom district, created from parts of East and West Kameng districts, will have its headquarters in Napangphung. This responds to a demand dating back to 1984 and brings far-flung areas closer to administrative services. The district has a population of around 9,710 as per the 2011 census.
Bamang Felix stated that the establishment of these new districts aims to improve accessibility to remote regions and expedite economic development under the Seva Aapke Dwar initiative. Additionally, 67 new administrative posts have been sanctioned for Keyi Panyor district to ensure smooth functioning. It has a financial implication of Rs 3.73 crore annually.
The upcoming budget session of the state assembly from February 8 will see the introduction of the Arunachal Pradesh (Reorganisation of Districts) (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to formalize the creation of these districts. As the process unfolds, it remains to be seen how effectively these new administrative units will serve the aspirations of the people and contribute to the overall development of Arunachal Pradesh.
