Arunachal Pradesh has restructured its Department of Hydropower Development to accelerate clean energy generation while protecting ecological assets. The move, announced as DHPD 2.0, aims to harness the state's vast untapped potential amid opposition from anti-dam activists. Officials project significant investments and capacity additions over the next decade.
On November 13, 2025, Arunachal Pradesh rebranded its Department of Hydropower Development as DHPD 2.0, signaling a renewed focus on hydropower expansion. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who oversees the Power portfolio, highlighted the restructuring during a statement on November 14. The initiative seeks to boost energy production while safeguarding the state's ecological wealth.
Arunachal holds nearly 40% of India's total hydropower potential, but only about 2%—or 1,227.12 megawatts—has been harnessed so far. According to Mr. Mein, 31% of projects are in advanced approval stages and will soon begin construction, leaving 57% of the potential untapped. The state government has declared 2025-2035 as the Decade of Hydropower to attract investments and drive growth.
Projections indicate nearly 19,000 megawatts of capacity will be commissioned in the next decade, involving investments of approximately ₹1.9 lakh crore. Mr. Mein emphasized, “Hydropower is not just an energy source, but a catalyst for building an industrial ecosystem for Arunachal Pradesh and the northeastern region beyond.” The department's new logo features a rising sun, flowing rivers, dams, and power lines, symbolizing a sustainable energy transition. Its catchphrase is ‘Powering Progress, Naturally’.
However, anti-dam activists criticize the push, arguing there is nothing natural about large-scale projects that risk displacement and ecological damage. Opposition has been fierce in regions like Siang and Tawang, where some proposed dams exceed 10,000 megawatts. Tribes and organizations have clashed with security personnel during pre-feasibility surveys at proposed sites.