LIKABALI : Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita on Wednesday reviewed the progress of various Central and State government schemes and developmental projects in Lower Siang district during a review meeting held at Likabali.

The Minister underscored the importance of regular assessment and evaluation of development projects, stating that such initiatives are key to shaping the State’s future and ensuring sustained growth.

Expressing concern over school dropouts, Margherita said every child leaving the education system is a matter of concern and stressed the need to ensure quality education and student retention.

The meeting reviewed the achievements, challenges and implementation status of flagship programmes. Departmental officials presented suggestions and discussed strategies to improve the delivery of developmental schemes across sectors.

Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Kardo Nyigyor highlighted the persistent road connectivity issues in the district, particularly along the Akajan-Likabali-Bame road, and sought early intervention from the Centre to address recurring monsoon-related disruptions. He also pointed to poor soil stability as a major factor behind the deterioration of roads in the region and advocated adopting engineering designs suited to local terrain and geological conditions.

Likabali MLA Nari Koyu and Yachuli MLA Tojir Kadu urged the Centre to enhance per-unit allocations under rural housing schemes, stating that existing provisions are inadequate given the difficult terrain and high transportation and construction costs in the State.

Lower Siang Deputy Commissioner Gobi Nyicyor, Additional Deputy Commissioners Ainstein Koyu and Mokar Riba, along with heads of departments, apprised the Minister of key achievements, challenges and requirements related to infrastructure development and public welfare.

Departmental heads also made detailed presentations on projects being implemented in their respective sectors.

Earlier, Margherita, accompanied by the district’s legislators, visited the historic Malinithan temple and offered prayers for the well-being of the people of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

The Minister was accorded a warm reception by district officials, panchayat leaders and members of the public on his arrival in the district.