Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed the Special Session of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly in Itanagar on September 9, 2026, calling upon legislators to uphold the highest traditions of democracy and work toward state and national development. He emphasized Arunachal Pradesh's strategic importance, rich cultural heritage, and abundant natural resources, noting its vital role in safeguarding the nation's borders and that the security of the rest of India is closely linked to border protection by Arunachal's people.
The Vice-President highlighted India's unity under one Constitution, the vision of 'Rashtra Pratham' (Nation First), and the goal of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. He recalled India's democratic heritage as the 'Mother of Democracy' and emphasized the growing focus on North-East development, citing the establishment of the Ministry of DoNER under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the emphasis under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East Policy.
Shri Radhakrishnan congratulated the state government and people on development achievements including Arunachal's emergence as India's leading producer of kiwi, expansion of road infrastructure, issuance of over one lakh Soil Health Cards, and significant progress in education and per capita income. He appreciated the Legislative Secretariat becoming plastic-free and the establishment of the Assembly Library and Museum as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations.
The Vice-President urged legislators to place public service above electoral success, emphasizing that respect and trust are earned through dedicated service rather than votes alone. He called for effective use of Question Hour and Zero Hour to raise public policy and constituency issues. As Rajya Sabha Presiding Officer, he stressed that debates, discussions, or disruptions must always lead to decisions, noting that healthy debate strengthens democracy while constructive cooperation advances the state and nation.
Shri Radhakrishnan stated there can be no Viksit Bharat without Viksit Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing inclusive development that leaves no tribal or marginalized community behind. He called for balancing environmental concerns with responsible utilization of natural resources for economic development and public welfare. Specifically regarding Arunachal's significant hydropower potential, he stated its appropriate utilization could generate greater revenue and accelerate state development.
The event was attended by Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, Speaker Tesam Pongte, Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, MLAs, and senior state government officials.