In a significant push toward strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s Hydropower sector, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Sh. Pema Khandu chaired the eighth meeting of the State Hydropower Development Steering Committee in Tawang district on 10 April 2025. During the high-level review session, the Hon'ble Chief Minister critically reviewed all 13 projects and instructed power developers and state officials to frame a timeline for all activities and adhere accordingly he also urged Power developers operating in the state to explore smaller hydropower projects in their respective river basins, in addition to large-scale ventures. Hon'ble CM added that tributaries of the state’s five major rivers hold immense potential, and tapping them could significantly add 100–300 MW to the state’s energy basket. Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Sh. Chowna Mein, Sh.Hari Krishna Paliwal an Adviser to the Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh holding the rank of Cabinet Minister, Chief Secretary Sh. Manish Kumar Gupta (IAS), senior state officials, and representatives from CPSUs including NHPC, SJVN, NEEPCO, and THDCIL also attended the meeting.
On the sidelines of the meeting, THDC India Limited (THDCIL) and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the training and capacity building of technical and non-technical personnel from the Department of Hydro Power Development.
Shri R. K. Vishnoi, CMD, THDCIL conveyed that THDCIL remains committed to not only building world-class hydroelectric infrastructure but also to fostering local talent and capability. Training is the foundation of sustainable development. By equipping personnel with advanced skills and knowledge, we’re investing in the long-term success of Arunachal Pradesh’s power sector,” he said. He added that THDCIL’s HRD division would be conducting in-house training programmes at project sites and technical departments, complemented by field exposure visits to operational and under-construction power stations.
Shri Vishnoi further emphasized that this initiative aligns closely with the vision of the Hon’ble Chief Minister to accelerate project timelines while ensuring local participation and empowerment. “Through this MoU, we look forward to developing a skilled local workforce that can not only support THDCIL’s ongoing projects but also take on future responsibilities in the energy sector with confidence, Sh. Vishnoi Added
The MoU was exchanged between Shri Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), THDCIL and the Sh.Sonam Chombay IRS, Commissioner, Department of Hydro Power Development, Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), THDCIL highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the initiative. Sh. Gupta said that this partnership is a step forward in ensuring that Arunachal Pradesh’s vast hydro potential is harnessed in a sustainable and inclusive manner. The training modules will be jointly developed and tailored to local needs, with special focus on practical exposure and skill application. He also acknowledged the proactive role played by the officials of Govt of Arunachal Pradesh in facilitating this collaboration. Sh. Virender Singh, CGM (I/C) Arunachal Pradesh also attended the meeting.
