Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 16, 2026

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated key new facilities at Dera Natung Government College, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to enhance higher education, skills, and sports opportunities for students.

Guwahati, April 16: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday inaugurated three key infrastructure projects at Dera Natung Government College, strengthening the state’s push to upgrade higher education facilities.

The Administrative Block, a pre-fabricated Badminton-cum-Judo Hall, and a Recreation Hall now serve students and faculty on behalf of the people of the state.

Addressing the gathering, Khandu said, “I am grateful to the college authorities for inviting me. I see this as an important step in improving our higher education infrastructure and creating better opportunities for our students.”

He reiterated that education and healthcare remain top priorities for the state government. “We have consistently worked to bridge infrastructure gaps in our institutions. I am glad to see this college growing steadily with new departments, hostels and expanded academic facilities,” he said.

The Chief Minister assured continued support for future needs. “If there are requirements like additional classrooms for new departments, we will address them without delay,” he added.

Paying tribute to former Education Minister Dera Natung, after whom the college is named, Khandu said, “His vision was to empower youth through education, and I believe this institution is carrying that legacy forward.”

Highlighting the role of sports, he said the new facilities would contribute to all-around development. “I always tell students that sports build discipline, leadership and a healthy lifestyle. Arunachal has improved its performance significantly in recent years, and we must keep that momentum,” he noted, referring to the state’s strong showing in the Khelo India Tribal Games.

Khandu also spoke about opportunities beyond the state. “Our government is fully sponsoring students who get admission into the world’s top 150 universities. I urge you to aim high and make use of this support,” he said.

On reforms, he highlighted the rollout of Mission Shikshit Arunachal 2029, aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. “We are upgrading infrastructure and bringing academic standards in line with global benchmarks,” he said.

Emphasising technology, Khandu added, “Artificial intelligence and machine learning are shaping the future. You must embrace these tools responsibly. We have already introduced AI-based initiatives and Vidya Samiksha Kendras for better monitoring of education.”

He also announced upcoming science centres with planetariums in Namsai and Dirang. “These will help promote scientific thinking among students,” he said.

On employment, the Chief Minister encouraged students to focus on skills. “Don’t just look for jobs—aim to become job creators. There are huge opportunities in hydropower, startups, MSMEs and entrepreneurship,” he said, referring to schemes like the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Swavalamban Yojana and startup support programmes.

He further announced the creation of an Arunachal Creative Economy cell in the Chief Minister’s Office. “We want to promote talents in arts, music, weaving and other creative sectors and give them global platforms,” he said.

Urging students to stay focused, Khandu said, “Discipline and vision will take you far. The government will continue to support your growth and the development of this college.”

Several officials, including Advisor Muchu Mithi, Corporator Techi Mema, and Principal Dr M. Q. Khan, were present at the programme.