Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched infrastructure projects worth over Rs 5.1 billion in Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring the state’s growing role in energy and regional development. He virtually laid the foundation stones for two major hydropower projects in Shi Yomi district, as well as a convention centre in Tawang. Additional projects worth over Rs 1.29 billion were rolled out across road connectivity, healthcare, and fire safety sectors.Addressing a public gathering at Indira Gandhi Park in Itanagar, PM Modi described Arunachal Pradesh as both the land of the rising sun and a cradle of patriotism. He highlighted frequent visits by central ministers to the northeast, noting that he has personally visited the region more than 70 times. “We regard all eight Northeastern states as forms of Goddess Lakshmi. We cannot see this region lagging in development,” he said.The Prime Minister emphasised India’s renewable energy target of 500 GW by 2030 through solar, wind, and hydro projects, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s alignment with this goal. He stated that the two new hydropower projects would enhance the state’s position as a key power producer, generate employment for thousands of youth, and provide affordable electricity to support development.On the Next Generation GST reforms, PM Modi noted that women would be among the biggest beneficiaries. The reforms reduce GST slabs to just two rates—5 per cent and 18 per cent—with many items made tax-free, easing household expenses and boosting savings. He termed the GST Bachat Utsav a landmark moment for households nationwide.Later, the Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas revered in Hindu tradition, at Tripura’s Udaipur.