Modi writes to Pema Khandu on statehood day; CM says 'Arunachal Pradesh grateful for PM's vision'

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu

• CM Khandu thanks PM Modi for Statehood Day greetings letter
• PM Modi praises Arunachal's development and patriotism
• Centre praised for enhancing connectivity and heritage preservation

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Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for writing  a letter to him on Arunachal Pradesh statehood day.

“On the joyous occasion of Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji for his warm greetings and inspiring message to the people of our beautiful state,” the CM posted on X.

Sharing the letter, Khandu said PM Modi’s words remind him of the radiant patriotism, spirit, and innovation that define Arunachal Pradesh – from the mountains of Tawang to the border villages that greet the dawn before the rest of India.” Over the past decade, guided by PM Modi Ji, Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed transformative development – be it in connectivity, infrastructure, healthcare, education, tourism, or sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

In his letter, PM Modi said what has always struck him about the state is the people’s passion towards nation-building.

“I have been fortunate to have visited Arunachal Pradesh time and again. Every time I come, the affection of the people is unparalleled. I was there in January when the GCT BrahMos was commissioned. At that time, I had the opportunity to interact with Self Help Groups and cadres from across the State. Their innovative outreach stood out. I was moved to see the unwavering resolve to serve, be it in the net, pulses, tea, handicrafts, carpets, eco-tourism and more. I was also amazed by how technologically updated people are,” the PM wrote.

He also said the NDA government at the Centre has devoted “unparalleled resources for the progress of the entire Northeast”. “The people of Arunachal Pradesh were thrilled when a proud son of the soil, Shri Kiren Rijiju, became the first-ever Union Cabinet Minister from the State. The wave of sentiment in the last decade has been more than mere symbolism,” said PM Modi.

On the joyous occasion of Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji for his warm greetings and inspiring message to the people of our beautiful state.

His words remind us of the radiant patriotism, spirit, and… pic.twitter.com/Fv1azrvNNV — Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) February 20, 2026

The PM also shared how the central government worked “round the clock” to strengthen connectivity in the state. “In the last decade, thousands of kilometres of roads have been built, many of them in very remote areas. The laying of foundation stones and timely completion of key projects such as the Donyi Polo airport and Sela tunnel in the state give a glimpse of our commitment to all-round connectivity,” he said.

Kahndu said the state is especially grateful for PM Modi's vision in preserving its cultural and spiritual heritage, through the digitisation of rare manuscripts under the Gyan Bharatam Mission. "This ensures that the richness of Arunachal’s traditions continues to inspire generations to come. On behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh, we thank Shri Narendra Modi Ji for his guidance, support, and vision, and we reaffirm our commitment to continue working towards a prosperous, vibrant, and united Arunachal Pradesh," he said.