Aizawl, Sep 13 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Saturday that the Northeast region is a key growth engine for India, having made significant advancements over the past 11 years to emerge as a leader.

During the inauguration of the ambitious 51.38-km Bairabi-Sairang railway project, the Prime Minister flagged off three new trains linking Aizawl with Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. He also laid the foundation stone and inaugurated several development projects valued at over Rs 9,000 crore, emphasizing that the Northeast, once regarded as a frontier state, has now become a frontrunner.

He noted that the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project would link Mizoram and other Northeastern states with the Bay of Bengal.

“The region will be better connected to Southeast Asian countries,” he stated.

The Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project is a collaborative initiative between India and Myanmar aimed at establishing a multi-modal transport corridor that connects India's eastern ports to its Northeastern states through Myanmar, leveraging waterways and roads to avoid the Siliguri Corridor.

According to the Prime Minister, “Once the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project is operational, trade and tourism will experience significant growth in the Northeast. These initiatives are integral to India’s Act East Policy.”

He criticized previous political parties for engaging in vote bank politics that hindered the region's progress.

“Our vision is distinct. We aim for peace and development in the region. Enhancements in rail, road, air, and waterway connectivity are underway and will continue to evolve,” the Prime Minister affirmed.

He pointed out that states previously overlooked are now leading in development due to the current government's strategies.

Commenting on the Regional Connectivity Scheme – UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik), he highlighted that the Northeastern region is reaping benefits from this scheme, with helicopter services set to commence from Aizawl to reach remote areas of Mizoram.

In his address, he stressed that India is becoming a global sports hub, with the government having already introduced the National Sports Policy—Khelo India policy—to enhance the sports sector.

Mizoram, known for producing numerous talented athletes, is expected to benefit from this policy, offering new opportunities for its youth, PM Modi remarked.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Northeast is evolving into a significant hub for entrepreneurs, boasting over 4,000 startups and numerous incubators, with many Mizoram youth participating in these initiatives.

He noted that during the recent 'Ashtalakshmi festival' in New Delhi, the eight Northeastern states showcased their textiles, crafts, and agricultural and horticultural products, highlighting the region's tourism potential.

“At the Rising Northeast Investor Summit (also held in Delhi), I motivated investors resulting in considerable investment proposals aimed at boosting the region's economy. Mizoram’s bamboo, organic ginger, turmeric, and other cash crops have the potential to generate economic prosperity for the state,” the Prime Minister highlighted.

Touching on GST reforms, PM Modi mentioned that taxes on many products have been significantly reduced, easing the burden on the populace. “Under the Congress regime, essentials like medicines and insurance faced heavy taxation, placing a strain on ordinary citizens,” he stated, assuring that his government is committed to the welfare of the common people.

During ‘Operation Sindoor’, India’s armed forces delivered a strong message to terrorists, showcasing the strength of the nation’s military and its indigenous weaponry to safeguard the country, the Prime Minister reiterated, asserting that India stands as the fastest-growing economy in the world.

This visit marks PM Modi's second trip to Mizoram since taking office in 2014. From Aizawl, he proceeded to Manipur.