Arunachal’s 56,000 MW Hydro Power Potential Can Transform India: CM Khandu

Arunachal Pradesh is rapidly emerging as the powerhouse of India's clean energy revolution. On Thursday, Chief Minister Pema Khandu officially declared the state as the “emerging hydropower capital of India,” emphasizing its vast 56,000 megawatt (MW) hydropower potential and strategic importance in shaping the country’s future in sustainable development, economic growth, and societal progress.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Khandu highlighted that Arunachal Pradesh is not only gearing up to become the energy engine of India but is also proving that ecological beauty and modern development can successfully coexist. “Arunachal is rising, not only as the hydro capital of India, but as a beacon of how natural beauty and progress can walk hand-in-hand,” he wrote.

CM Khandu emphasized the significant transformation in the power sector, stating that many major hydropower projects that had remained on paper for years are now turning into on-ground operational realities. Among these, the 600 MW Kameng Hydroelectric Project has already been completed. The much-anticipated 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Project, India’s largest under-construction hydroelectric project, is now close to completion.

He further added that the massive 2,880 MW Dibang Multipurpose Project is making steady progress and is set to become India’s largest hydroelectric power plant once commissioned. Together, these projects mark a major boost to India’s overall renewable energy capacity.

Looking forward, Khandu revealed that 13 new hydropower projects with a total capacity of 15,000 MW are expected to come up in Arunachal Pradesh over the next three years. This unprecedented growth will significantly enhance the state’s role in the national energy landscape and transform it into a key contributor to India’s green economy.

However, the chief minister made it clear that the push for hydropower development is not only about increasing electricity production. He stressed that it is about uplifting lives across the state. “This isn’t just about power generation. It’s about powering people’s lives,” he said.

Khandu highlighted the concrete economic benefits from these projects. He stated that Rs 4,171 crore worth of free power will be routed back to the state, directly enhancing its internal revenue. Additionally, Rs 735 crore is being directly invested in local communities, aimed at improving infrastructure, supporting livelihoods, and promoting overall welfare.

He also pointed out that the state is projected to earn Rs 1,884 crore annually in dividends from its hydropower ventures, providing a major financial boost to the state's economy and supporting long-term fiscal stability.

The Chief Minister concluded by underlining Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to clean energy, employment generation, and inclusive development. The state’s focused journey into hydropower not only advances India’s clean energy goals but also serves as a model for sustainable, balanced growth where economic development is aligned with environmental stewardship and social equity.