Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Thursday called for the early transfer of land in Arunachal Pradesh to ensure timely execution of defence infrastructure projects.

In a meeting with Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) at Raj Bhavan, the Army Chief also proposed the creation of Zilla Sainik Boards in the state to enhance institutional support for ex-servicemen and their families.

General Dwivedi pointed out the low level of recruitment of Arunachali youth in the armed forces and stressed the need for awareness programmes and mentoring initiatives to encourage greater participation, a Raj Bhavan release stated.

Responding to these concerns, Governor Parnaik underlined the importance of coordinated efforts under the Vibrant Village Programme, noting that active involvement of local communities, government agencies, and security forces was crucial to its success.

The Governor also highlighted the Army’s grassroots initiatives in border areas, including pre-recruitment training, guidance for Sainik School admissions, and Sadbhavana projects aimed at fostering discipline and self-reliance among youth.

He further commended the Army’s professionalism, operational preparedness, and humanitarian contributions, while acknowledging its consistent support to the people of the state alongside national security duties.