In a significant move to promote academic excellence, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced a massive enhancement of the Dorjee Khandu merit scholarship while inaugurating new infrastructure at a government college in Tawang on Saturday.
Substantial Increase in Scholarship Amounts
The Chief Minister revealed that the scholarship, instituted in memory of his father, has seen a dramatic increase in financial rewards. The first prize has been raised from Rs 35,000 to Rs 5 lakh, while the second position award jumps from Rs 23,000 to Rs 3 lakh. Similarly, the third prize sees an increase from Rs 15,000 to Rs 2 lakh, effective from the current academic year.
"This is our way of encouraging academic excellence and honouring the legacy of Karamveer Dorjee Khandu," Khandu stated during the ceremony held on November 9, 2025.
New Infrastructure for Quality Education
The event also marked the inauguration of new academic and administrative blocks at Dorjee Khandu Government College. Khandu praised the institution's remarkable growth since its establishment in 2016 with temporary structures, transforming into one of the state's most disciplined and result-oriented colleges.
"With this new infrastructure, we take another firm step towards nurturing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and change-makers from the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh," the Chief Minister said, dedicating the newly inaugurated blocks to students and faculty.
Strengthening Education Under NEP 2020
Highlighting the state's commitment to educational reforms, Khandu emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh is implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in letter and spirit to ensure access, equity, quality, affordability, and accountability in education.
He confirmed that all educational institutions in the state are being strengthened under this framework. Responding to a memorandum from college principal Dr Yeshi Gyetsen, Khandu announced that the process for sanctioning additional faculty and ministerial staff is already underway.
The Chief Minister also directed the Tawang deputy commissioner to coordinate with the principal on several infrastructure improvements, including furniture procurement, boundary demarcation, and issuance of a land allotment certificate, while assuring funds for boundary wall construction.
Recognizing the importance of sports, Khandu proposed developing a dedicated playground for the college near Tawang Stadium and suggested repurposing old structures in the vicinity. He assured that more infrastructure would be developed in a phased manner.
Urging students to maintain discipline, Khandu said, "Discipline is the foundation of success. I urge all students to carry this value with you beyond this campus and throughout your professional journey."
The Chief Minister expressed pride over the college's outstanding academic record, noting that it has maintained over 95% pass percentage, with 100% results in the last two academic sessions.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Advisor (education) Mutchu Mithi, MLAs Phurpa Tsering, Tsering Lhamu, and Namgey Tsering, along with Education commissioner Amjad Tak.
