Dibrugarh, Assam – the Indian Army hosted a significant two-day seminar titled “Arunachal Pradesh – India Centric Geospace” at the Dinjan Military Station in Assam’s Dibrugarh district. The event, which commenced on March 5, brought together senior military officials, policymakers, and scholars to discuss critical geopolitical, economic, and developmental issues concerning Arunachal Pradesh, with a special focus on the state’s hydropower projects.
The seminar highlighted the strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh in India’s developmental framework, particularly its potential in hydropower generation. Uttam Kumar Sinha, a prominent scholar specializing in transboundary rivers, climate change, and Arctic studies, emphasized the need for India to strengthen its river management capabilities independently. He urged a proactive rather than reactive approach to infrastructure development, especially in light of China’s activities across the border. “We should not merely respond to what China does on their side. Instead, we must focus on building resilient, sustainable infrastructure that fosters collaboration between the state and its people,” Sinha stated.
A key highlight of the event was the discussion on upcoming hydropower initiatives in Arunachal Pradesh. Samiran Goswami, Executive Director of the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO), revealed that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed with the Arunachal Pradesh government in 2023 to execute 13 hydel power projects. Of these, NEEPCO will spearhead five projects, boasting a combined installed capacity of 2,626 megawatts. This development is expected to significantly boost the region’s energy production and contribute to India’s renewable energy goals.
The seminar provided a platform for in-depth conversations on sustainable development, with experts stressing the importance of adopting scientific and people-centric approaches to infrastructure projects. The discussions underscored Arunachal Pradesh’s pivotal role in shaping India’s energy future while addressing regional geopolitical dynamics.
Held in the strategically located Dibrugarh district, the event reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering dialogue on issues vital to national progress and security. As Arunachal Pradesh moves forward with its hydropower ambitions, such initiatives signal a broader push toward sustainable growth and enhanced regional collaboration in India’s Northeast.
