Guwahati, April 15 -- Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday, April 14, said the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) is a major national initiative with importance linked to security needs, environmental balance and economic progress.

During his visit to Riga village in Siang district, the chief minister told a public gathering that about 70 per cent of villagers have already consented by signing MoUs for the project's pre-feasibility study.

He also called on remaining residents to extend their support, saying the project offers wider benefits for the region.

According to him, the project would play a role in controlling floods, maintaining steady river flow, improving water regulation and protecting communities li...