Itanagar, Dec 30: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced that his government will prioritize youth empowerment and education reforms in 2025, aiming to foster the state’s growth and prosperity.
In his recent statement, Khandu declared 2024-25 as the “Year of Youth,” emphasizing the critical role young people play in shaping the future of the state and the nation. “The ‘Year of Youth’ recognizes the immense responsibility our youth hold in building a developed India and a prosperous Arunachal,” he said.
A key focus of the initiative will be promoting entrepreneurship among the youth, reducing reliance on government jobs. The state government plans to establish a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem through skill development programs and policies, such as the Arunachal Pradesh Entrepreneurship Development Programme (APEDP). The program, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP), will provide aspiring entrepreneurs with mentorship and resources.
Khandu also highlighted the government’s partnership with prestigious institutions like IIMs and the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) Guwahati to offer advanced training programs. Special grants will be allocated to support youth-led startups in the state.
In addition, education reform remains a top priority. The state plans to implement transformative changes over the next three years to improve education quality, infrastructure, and opportunities for students. Brainstorming sessions led by Education Minister P D Sona and advisor Mutchu Mithi have already identified challenges and will help shape a comprehensive reform plan.
Khandu emphasized the development of well-equipped inter-village schools, with hostels and modern teaching methods. The government is also working to optimize resources by closing or merging underperforming schools.
Despite challenges like a shortage of trained teachers in key subjects, Khandu urged the public to support these reforms, stressing their importance for the state’s long-term growth and self-reliance.
