Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has warmly welcomed the Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for the period 2026-31, hailing it as a major step forward for clean energy generation and rural economic upliftment in the Northeast region.
In a post on X, CM Khandu described the decision as “a very welcome decision by the Union Cabinet led by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji approving the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for 2026-31.” He emphasized that the initiative represents “a big boost for the northeast, especially Arunachal Pradesh, where our rivers hold immense untapped potential.”
The scheme, with an outlay of approximately Rs 2,584.60 crore, aims to develop around 1,500 MW of small hydropower capacity across the country from FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31. It provides enhanced financial support particularly for hilly, frontier, and border states like Arunachal Pradesh, enabling the harnessing of clean, decentralized energy in remote and challenging terrains.
Khandu highlighted the scheme’s potential to unlock the state’s vast hydropower resources from numerous untapped rivers, accelerating sustainable development without large-scale environmental disruption or displacement. “With the right planning and execution, this scheme can transform rural economies, empower local communities, and position our region as a leader in sustainable hydropower,” he stated.
Small hydro projects under the scheme are expected to generate local employment opportunities, bolster infrastructure, and improve livelihoods in rural and border areas. The focus on decentralized power generation aligns with the state’s needs for reliable energy access in geographically isolated regions, contributing to overall socio-economic progress.
The approval has been seen as a timely push toward renewable energy goals, with leaders noting its special relevance for the Northeast’s hilly landscape and abundant water resources. CM Khandu expressed optimism that the enhanced support for such areas will drive meaningful change and position Arunachal Pradesh at the forefront of green energy initiatives.
This development comes as part of the central government’s broader efforts to promote renewable sources and balanced regional growth.
Tags: Pema Khandu, Small Hydro Power Scheme, Union Cabinet Approval, Arunachal Pradesh Hydropower, Clean Energy Northeast, Rural Development Arunachal, SHP Development 2026-31, Sustainable Hydropower, Northeast Energy Boost
Hashtags: #PemaKhandu #SmallHydroPower #ArunachalPradesh #UnionCabinet #CleanEnergy #NortheastIndia #HydropowerDevelopment #SustainableEnergy #RuralEconomy #ModiGovernment
