Itanagar, July 31: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday declared the state as the “emerging hydropower capital of India,” highlighting its vast energy potential and transformative hydropower initiatives. With an estimated hydropower potential of 56,000 megawatts, the state is now poised to contribute significantly to India’s clean energy future.
In a social media post, CM Khandu stated, “Arunachal is rising, not only as the hydro capital of India, but as a beacon of how natural beauty and progress can walk hand-in-hand.” He noted that projects once limited to paper are now becoming operational, marking a shift towards realising Arunachal’s energy ambitions.
Among the ongoing developments, the 600 MW Kameng project has been completed, and the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower project is nearing commissioning. The 2,880 MW Dibang project, which is set to become India’s largest hydroelectric plant, is also progressing steadily.
Significantly, Khandu revealed that 13 new hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 15,000 MW are expected to be launched within the next three years. These developments will not only bolster national energy production but also bring tangible economic benefits to the state.
According to the Chief Minister, Arunachal Pradesh stands to gain ₹4,171 crore in free power revenue, while ₹735 crore will be directly invested into local communities for infrastructure, livelihood, and welfare projects. Additionally, the state expects to earn ₹1,884 crore annually in dividends from its hydropower ventures.
Emphasising a holistic vision for development, Khandu asserted that the hydropower push is not merely about electricity generation but about transforming lives. “This isn’t just about power generation. It’s about powering people’s lives,” he said.
