Arunachal Pradesh Unveils DHPD 2.0: A Revolutionary Leap in Hydropower Development

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has undertaken a landmark reform by restructuring the Department of Hydro Power Development into four basin-based divisions: Kameng, Subansiri, Siang, and Dibang–Lohit–Tirap. Each basin is overseen by a Chief Engineer responsible for project execution and monitoring within the region, empowering decentralized and faster decision-making.

This restructuring, known as DHPD 2.0, was approved by the State Cabinet on May 13, 2025. It created 96 new technical and ministerial posts to bolster manpower and enhance field operations. The department's circuits and divisions have been renamed after prominent rivers, reflecting the cultural identity and ecological focus of Arunachal Pradesh.

The initiative aligns with the state’s ambition to emerge as India’s hydropower capital, harnessing nearly 40% of the country's potential with an accelerated push to commission 19,000 MW over the next decade. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein emphasized the need for skilled manpower and announced structured month-long training programs to enhance technical expertise.

The revamped department carries a new logo featuring the rising sun, rivers, dams, and power lines, symbolizing sustainable progress and harmony with nature under the tagline “Powering Progress, Naturally.” In a recent review meeting, outstanding engineers were felicitated for their dedication to infrastructure improvement.

Key Highlights:

Basin-wise restructuring of DHPD into Kameng, Subansiri, Siang, and Dibang–Lohit–Tirap divisions.

Creation of 96 new posts to strengthen technical capacity and field operations.

State Cabinet approval in May 2025, marking a historic administrative reform.

Focus on decentralized decision-making and enhanced project execution speed.

Aspiration to commission 19,000 MW hydropower capacity over the next decade.

Training programs for technical upskilling introduced for department staff.

New departmental logo symbolizes growth, sustainability, and cultural identity.

Sources: India Today Northeast, Eastern Sentinel, Echo of Arunachal, Tribune India