Arunachal Pradesh celebrated its 24th Statehood Day in grand fashion today. Union Minister for New and Renewable Resources Dr Farooque Abdullah was the chief guest at the main function in capital Itanagar. Besides Arunachal Governor JJ Singh and Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu and his cabinet colleagues, a host of dignitaries attended the celebration. Addressing the gathering, Dr Abdullah said Arunachal Pradesh has a large area compared to its population. He said he will apprise the Prime Minister that central funds should be given to states not just on population basis but also on the basis of their area. The Union Minister also assured that the Centre will provide assistance to the state in all areas for its development.