Is the Northeast Transforming Under PM Modi's Leadership?

New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has declared that a revitalized Northeast is emerging under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

While addressing the Riding Northeast Investor Summit at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the Union Minister underscored that a 'New Bharat' is emerging, with a rejuvenated Northeast at its core.

Minister Sonowal pointed out the significant evolution of the Northeast Region (NER) over the past ten years, crediting this transformation to the persistent leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

'With the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the Northeast has undergone a transformative journey. Once thought to be distant and secluded, it is now swiftly becoming India's gateway to Southeast Asia.'

'The region is no longer just part of India's growth narrative – it is now a crucial chapter in it.'

He cited a remarkable statistic – over 700 visits by Cabinet Ministers to the Northeast in the last decade – as evidence of the Union government's ongoing commitment to the region's development.

Minister Sonowal emphasized the government's dedication to inclusive infrastructure, particularly in maritime and inland waterways, which are altering the region's economic landscape.

'Inland waterways represent one of the most promising avenues for development in the Northeast.'

'Currently, we have more than 20 designated National Waterways in the region. The Jalvahak scheme is being implemented to enhance multi-modal connectivity, create logistics hubs, and increase cargo movement. Infrastructure development along these waterways will unveil new economic corridors and generate significant employment opportunities.'

Pointing out India's logistics advantage, Minister Sonowal mentioned that 90% of the nation's trade by volume and 70% by value is conducted through shipping, with inland waterways under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) and Sittwe Port in Myanmar poised to be transformative in unlocking value.

Highlighting the region's abundant talent, the Union Minister elaborated on new initiatives in maritime skill development aimed at empowering youth from the Northeast for careers in port operations, vessel management, and logistics.

Minister Sonowal also accentuated the vast potential for 'Heal in India' medical tourism in the NER, leveraging the area's natural beauty, wellness traditions, and advancing healthcare facilities.

'The market potential of the Northeast extends beyond domestic consumption.'

'It has direct links with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal (BBIN) nations, granting investors unparalleled access to over 600 million consumers in neighboring markets.'