Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s strategic importance to India, noting that the state plays a vital role in safeguarding the country’s borders. Addressing a special session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in Itanagar, he stressed that the security of the rest of the country is closely linked to the protection of the borders by the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

Radhakrishnan also highlighted the growing focus on the development of the Northeast, recalling the establishment of the Ministry of DoNER during former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure. He also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on the region under the Act East Policy. The Vice-President congratulated the government and people of Arunachal Pradesh for development achievements, including its emergence as the country’s leading kiwi producer, expansion of road infrastructure, issuance of more than one lakh Soil Health Cards and progress in education and per capita income.

Speaking about the state legislature, Radhakrishnan urged lawmakers to uphold democratic traditions and work towards the development of Arunachal Pradesh and the country. He described India as the “Mother of Democracy” and called on legislators to uphold this legacy. He also congratulated the Assembly on completing its Golden Jubilee and appreciated initiatives including making the Legislative Secretariat plastic-free and establishing an Assembly Library and Museum.

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The Vice-President urged legislators to place public service above electoral success, noting that elections can be won through votes while the trust and respect of people are earned through dedicated service. He called upon members to make effective use of Question Hour and Zero Hour to raise matters concerning public policy and their constituencies. As Rajya Sabha Chairman, he also emphasised dialogue, debate and discussion as essential elements of legislative functioning.

Radhakrishnan stressed the importance of inclusive development in Arunachal Pradesh, stating that there can be no Viksit Bharat without a Viksit Arunachal Pradesh. He called for ensuring that tribal and marginalised communities are not left behind and urged a balance between environmental concerns and responsible use of natural resources. Referring to the state’s hydropower potential, he noted that its appropriate utilisation could increase revenue and accelerate development.

Emphasising India’s unity amid its diversity, Radhakrishnan referred to one Constitution, the vision of “Rashtra Pratham” and the goal of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. Earlier, on his arrival at the Assembly premises, he paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and received a ceremonial Guard of Honour. He also visited the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly Museum, which showcases the evolution and legislative journey of the state.

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