Chongkham: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein, inaugurated the new office building of the additional deputy commissioner (ADC) here on Sunday.
Mein addressed the public, highlighting the government’s commitment to bringing administration to the people’s doorstep under the leadership of Chief Minister Pema Khandu and with unwavering support from cabinet ministers.
During his speech, Mein praised the completion of new office structures for ADC headquarters in Chongkham and Wakro within the current tenure, emphasizing the government’s dedication to more efficient grassroots-level governance.
Expressing gratitude, the deputy chief minister commended the people-centric approach of the government and acknowledged the swift functionality of the ADC headquarters in facilitating accessible administration.
He specifically applauded Namsai deputy commissioner, C R Khampa, for assuring the implementation of Jan Suvidha in the ADC headquarters, a move aimed at streamlining document issuance and reducing citizen inconvenience.
Mein urged the community to actively contribute to the maintenance of the new office building, enhancing the beauty of the township.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to rural development, ensuring equitable progress across all areas.
In addition to inaugurating the ADC office building, Mein unveiled an exam hall cum auditorium at the Government Higher Secondary School in Chongkham, fulfilling a longstanding demand from school authorities and students.
Recognizing the school’s outstanding performance and its integral role in the community, Mein highlighted that the newly inaugurated auditorium hall would support co-curricular activities and provide an ideal environment for examinations.
The deputy chief minister announced that the Government Higher Secondary School, Chongkham, would be included in the Golden Jubilee Model School Program, with plans for infrastructure upgrades.
In conclusion, Mein encouraged students to remain focused on their studies, work hard, and wished them success in building bright and successful careers, bringing honor to their families and the institute.
Buddha statue unveiled:
Deputy Chief Minister Mein on the day also unveiled a 14 majestic 11-ft tall statue of Lord Buddha at the Mahabodhi Skill Development Centre in Nongtaw near here.
The unveiling took place in the presence of former minister CC Singpho, Mahabodhi Maitri Mandala Arunachal Centres chairman, Ven. Bhikkhu Panyarakkhita, Mahabhodi Skill Development Centre director, Nongtaw Ven. Bhikkhu Sangharakkhita and Mahabodhi Monastic Institute, Bengaluru director, Ven. Bhikkhu Panyaloka.
The initiative aims to install a total of 108 sacred Buddha statues at the Centre, generously dedicated by individuals from diverse communities in the region to preserve the serenity of the natural surroundings and combat issues such as shifting cultivation and deforestation.
Mein also inaugurated the Handloom Weaving and Carpentry Workshop, alongside the Monk’s dining hall. Simultaneously, he laid the foundation stone for a hostel building for trainees and an administrative block for the Centre.
In his address, the deputy CM emphasized that the number 108 symbolizes the 108 qualities of Lord Buddha.
He expressed optimism about the Mahabhodi Society’s potential to extend its impact beyond spiritualism, contributing to the health and education sectors.
“The Mahabodhi Lord Buddha College in Namsai, affiliated with Rajiv Gandhi University since 2013, aligns with this vision, with expectations of evolving into an independent university in the coming years,” he said.
Mein envisioned transforming the Mahabhodi Skill Development Centre into a comprehensive learning institute, incorporating the Gurukul System from Monastic Institutes of Buddhism. He proposed establishing a school alongside the Skill Development Centre, offering both monastic teachings and CBSE education.
Mein aspired for the Centre to become a premier spiritual and tourist destination, calling for collective societal participation.
He urged the initiation of a 10-bedded Monk’s Hostel through voluntary contributions, emphasizing the importance of preserving the region’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and promoting spiritualism and mental peace. He also proposed the construction of a grand 108-ft statue of Lord Buddha atop the hill, envisioning it as a symbolic addition to the Centre’s beauty.
Assurances were made for the construction of approach roads and security fencing to protect the expansive area from encroachment, along with the establishment of a security force in the region. Deputy CM Mein commended the director of Mahabodhi Skill Development Centre, Ven. Bikkhu Sangharakkhita, for his innovative and eco-friendly approach.
During the ceremony, two books, ‘Basics of Buddhism’ and ‘Living Legacy of the Buddha,’ dedicated to the deputy CM and his family, were also released.
Dignitaries present included Namsai ZPC Urmila Manchykhun, district BJP president Sujana Namchoom, Namsai deputy commissioner C R Khampa and SP Sangey Thinley.
Also read: Parshuram Kund Festival-2024: Mein announces strategic upgrades, grand statue unveiling
