AP Governor urges people to root out corruption

Unfurling the national flag here on Republic Day, Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Nirbhay Sharma today exhorted the people to root out corruption and criminal activities from the state.
In his maiden address to the people, the Governor urged the youths and their mentors to ensure that the energy of the youth was not diverted towards disruption.
"The true essence of a mature democracy is by way of discussion, debate and dissension and not by disruption.
"We must re-dedicate ourselves on this day to the peaceful realisation of the dream that had inspired the captains and soldiers of our freedom struggle, the dream of establishing a classless, co-operative, free and egalitarian society," he said.

Sharma said the government's priority was to strengthen the people politically, socially and economically. With this in mind it has intiated steps in four core areas -- development of natural resources, human resources, infrastructure and institutional.
This was aimed at sustainable and balanced growth with equity to achieve the long-cherished goal of inclusive growth during the 12th plan and beyond with a commitment for a "people first" and "development through culture of governance", he said.

Referring to the law and order scenario in the state, he said it was under control except for 13 encounters with underground elements in the disturbed areas in which 10 rebels were killed, 87 others arrested and large cache of arms and ammunitions were seized.

Special emphasis has been laid on women's safety and investigation of offences against women. A women police station has been started at Itanagar and for the first time 20 women sub-inspectors and 180 women constables were recruited, he said.
The Governor said the state government has laid special emphasis on connecting 22 unconnected administrative centres, providing drinking water facilities, construction of porter tracks, log bridges and foot suspension bridges for locals and security forces as Arunachal Pradesh has a long international border with China, Myanmar and Bhutan and the development of nearby areas was important.