Pasighat, Oct 5: A consultative discussion on the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) was held between the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Ltd and delegations from the Adi Baane Kebang (ABK) and the Siang Indigenous Farmers’ Forum (SIFF) at the NHPC Office Complex in Pasighat on October 4.
The meeting was attended by Tanon Tatak, President, ABK, along with other executive members, Amok Padung, President, SIFF, and Likeng Libang, Secretary, SIFF, along with members from the Siang and Upper Siang districts. Atek Miyu, State Nodal Officer (SUMP), and Philip Jerang, Assistant Commissioner, Riga, were also present.
Amar Nath Jha, General Manager (Civil) and Head of Project, Siang Lower Project, NHPC, briefed the participants on the key aspects of the SUMP, highlighting the strategic and water security significance of the project, which has been declared a National Project by the Government of India.
Jha explained that the SUMP is designed to ensure flood moderation, water security, and clean hydropower generation, while also driving regional growth through improved infrastructure, local employment, and community welfare initiatives. He noted that the project would regulate the river flow, mitigate flood risks, and contribute to long-term ecological and social resilience for the Siang region and its people.
“The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is not just about generating power, it’s about securing the future of Siang valley,” Jha said. “Through open dialogue and collaboration with local communities, we aim to create a project that strengthens regional development while preserving the unique cultural and environmental heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.”
During the consultative meeting, ABK President Tanon Tatak and other members raised several questions to clarify their doubts about the project, to which the NHPC GM responded with detailed explanations. Tatak further proposed holding a consultative meeting with the Project Affected Families (PAFs), followed by another meeting with the State Government and NHPC.
It was appealed to the ABK to support the Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) and to help raise awareness at the grassroots level about the importance and necessity of the SUMP. It was also emphasised that the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and related studies – such as the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Environmental Management Plan (EMP), Social Impact Assessment (SIA), Land Acquisition, and Resettlement & Rehabilitation (R&R) Plan – will involve consultations with stakeholders at every stage.
The discussion was marked by openness, mutual respect, and constructive exchange of ideas. Delegates actively raised queries, which were addressed by Jha with detailed explanations.
NHPC reiterated its commitment to work closely with community organisations to ensure that the SUMP delivers sustainable benefits to the region while upholding environmental and social safeguards.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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