GUWAHATI, May 13 � Maintaining cordial relations with the neighbouring states including Assam, will be one of the major priorities of JP Rajkhowa, who has been appointed Governor of Arunachal Pradesh. He is also planning to play his part in sustainable development of Arunachal Pradesh after taking over as Governor of the state.
Talking to The Assam Tribune, Rajkhowa, who was appointed as Arunachal Governor on Tuesday, said playing a positive role to maintain peace and good relations with the neighbouring states would be his top priority as Governor.
Rajkhowa said, if his assistance is sought to settle the border dispute between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, he would be ready to play his part. Replying to a question on the issue, he said the constitutional responsibility of the Governor would be to advise the state government and after taking over, he would hold discussions with the Council of Ministers on the issue. �As far as I know, the matter is pending before the Supreme Court and it is upto the court to decide. But I am not aware of the latest developments and can comment only after thoroughly understanding the latest ground situation. If my assistance is required to initiate talks between both the governments on the issue, I shall always be ready to play my part,� he added.
On his other priorities, Rajkhowa said he would like to play a part in sustainable development of Arunachal Pradesh.
He said every NE state has its own problems and requirements. But very often, while formulating policies, the North-east is clubbed together. He said he would try his best to play a role in development of key areas like infrastructure and tourism in the state.
Replying to a question on his feelings on being appointed as Governor, Rajkhowa said he felt �quite good� as the Government of India trusted his ability to work as the Governor of a sensitive state like Arunachal Pradesh. He admitted that after working as a bureaucrat his role as a Governor would be a totally different experience. But in the past also, very often retired bureaucrats, Army officers etc, were appointed as governors, he said.
The date on which he would take over is yet to be finalised. He said the date would be finalised after receiving the formal papers and in consultation with the present Governor, who has been transferred to Mizoram.
