Merit, transparency driving Arunachal’s recruitment reforms: CM Khandu

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday reaffirmed the state government's commitment to a fair, transparent and merit-based recruitment system, asserting that honesty and transparency remain ''non-negotiable principles'' of the present dispensation.

Addressing an event to distribute appointment letters to 404 successful candidates of the Junior Engineer Combined Recruitment Examination (JECRE) 2025 conducted by the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC), Khandu said the selections were made purely on merit through a transparent and time-bound process.

Congratulating the newly-appointed junior engineers and their families, the chief minister said their success reflected hard work, dedication and perseverance.

Highlighting the scale of the recruitment process, he informed that 9,023 candidates had appeared for the examination, out of which 1,236 qualified for interviews, leading to the final selection of 404 candidates.

Khandu lauded the APPSC for restoring credibility and integrity in the recruitment system following reforms initiated after irregularities surfaced in 2020.

He said the government undertook a complete overhaul of the institution by addressing loopholes and strengthening the system through consultations with experts and stakeholders.

''Today, the commission has emerged as a robust and credible institution successfully conducting transparent recruitment for Group A and Group B services,'' he said.

The chief minister also highlighted the role of the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB) in streamlining recruitment for Group C posts and ensuring equal opportunities for all aspirants irrespective of influence or connections.

Stating that youth possess immense talent and potential, Khandu encouraged the successful candidates to aim for higher goals, including UPSC and other competitive examinations.

The newly-appointed junior engineers have been recruited in departments including PWD, RWD, UD&H, PHE&WS, Hydro Power Development and the Power department.

Describing junior engineers as crucial to infrastructure development, Khandu stressed the importance of maintaining quality, transparency and timely completion of government projects.

He observed that shortage of technical manpower had emerged as a major concern across districts and expressed confidence that the recruits would help bridge the gap.

The chief minister said the engineers would undergo professional training in collaboration with reputed institutions before being posted in the field.

Initially, they would serve in planning and design wings under senior officers to gain technical exposure and practical experience.

He urged the recruits to work with dedication, sincerity and the spirit of ''Team Arunachal'' while serving the people of the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, ministers, MLAs, the chief secretary and senior officials were also present during the programme.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)