Is Northeast the New Epicenter of India's Development Journey?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Northeast is a key player in India's development.
- 100% literacy in Mizoram is a remarkable achievement.
- Entrepreneurship is thriving in the region.
- AI readiness is a focus for the future workforce.
- Government initiatives are empowering thousands of youth.
New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) The northeastern region has transitioned from being marginalized to becoming the central hub of India’s development journey, as stated by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, on Saturday.
While addressing the ‘Rising Northeast Investors Summit 2025’, the minister highlighted that the region, marked by 100 percent literacy rates in Mizoram and the entrepreneurial drive of its youth, stands as a testament to resilience and community strength.
“As we acknowledge this transformation, it is crucial to promote risk-taking, skill enhancement, and ecosystem support to realize its full potential,” he remarked during the event.
He emphasized the importance of the ‘Skilling for AI Readiness’ (SOAR) program, which is being developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and NCVET, stating, “The future is embedded in AI, and India must spearhead the initiative by creating indigenous models that prepare our youth for an AI-centric world.”
“Through ‘Skilling for AI Readiness’, we aspire to provide students with the necessary tools to ethically innovate using AI. The united spirit of the Northeast, complemented by national backing, serves as a guiding light of progress. We must harness this energy, challenge outdated mindsets, and cultivate a future where every young individual from Arunachal to Assam contributes to India’s global narrative,” Chaudhary noted.
The northeastern region is experiencing swift growth and is poised to become one of India’s key economic centers.
“From the tea estates of Assam to the digital creators in Shillong, the Northeast is not merely awaiting change — it is actively shaping it. Now is the time for the rest of India and the world to invest in this vibrant spirit,” the minister added.
During the summit, an ‘Udyamita se Atmanirbhar Pavilion’ was established by MSDE to showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of the Northeast, featuring eight dynamic entrepreneurs trained by the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE).
Since 2015, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has empowered over 49,000 youth with apprenticeship opportunities and provided entrepreneurship support to more than 300,000 individuals through EAP and EDP programs.