Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR : Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday highlighted the achievements of the Central Government over the past 12 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the period as one of unprecedented infrastructure expansion and national development.

Addressing a press conference at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters here, Rijiju said India has witnessed remarkable progress in road, railway and aviation infrastructure, resulting in improved connectivity and economic growth across the country.

Referring to the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), launched by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000, Rijiju said the scheme has transformed rural connectivity nationwide. He informed that more than eight lakh kilometres of rural roads have been constructed under the programme, with nearly four lakh kilometres built during the tenure of the Modi Government.

Highlighting developments in Arunachal Pradesh, Rijiju said the pace of road construction in the country has reached an average of 34 kilometres per day. He noted that strategic projects such as the Sela Tunnel, Nechiphu Tunnel and the proposed Frontier Highway are significantly improving connectivity while strengthening border infrastructure and security in the state.

The Union Minister also underscored achievements in the railway sector, stating that nearly 99.6 per cent of India’s broad-gauge railway network has been electrified. He said the introduction of 164 Vande Bharat trains has modernised rail travel by offering faster, safer and more passenger-friendly services.

On the aviation front, Rijiju said India has emerged as the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market. He noted that the number of operational airports has increased from 74 before 2014 to around 164 today, substantially enhancing regional connectivity across the country.

Speaking on the occasion, State BJP president Kaling Moyong highlighted the achievements of the State Government under the leadership of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. He said flagship initiatives such as Sarkar Aapke Dwar and Seva Aapke Dwar have benefited over 15 lakh people by delivering government services directly to citizens, particularly in remote areas.

Moyong also highlighted the Cabinet Aapke Dwar initiative, under which State Cabinet meetings are held in far-flung districts to promote inclusive development and responsive governance.

The BJP leaders reiterated that both the central and state governments remain committed to accelerating development, enhancing connectivity and ensuring inclusive growth across Arunachal Pradesh and the country.