New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) The swift evolution of air infrastructure across India's North-East states in the past decade is catalyzing significant economic growth in this remote mountainous region. This progress is particularly evident in both the agricultural and tourism sectors.

As highlighted in an article from 'Times of Kuwait', the region now boasts 17 operational airports, a number that has nearly doubled since 2014.

In Arunachal Pradesh, three new greenfield airports have been constructed, while Sikkim, Nagaland, and Tripura have each established one.

Additionally, several airports have been revived or upgraded to enhance runways and facilities.

The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme initiated by the Government has significantly improved regional air connectivity within the North-East and to other cities, both domestically and internationally.

This burgeoning airport infrastructure is set to boost economic growth in North East India, as noted by Mark Martin, CEO of a Dubai-based aviation company.

“The primary impact of aviation is job creation. Given the predominantly hilly terrain, reliance on rail or road transportation is minimal,” Martin mentioned.

The article also mentions Bhanu Pratap, founder of a startup named North East Farm Sales Promotion, which has begun exporting organic food items from the North East to Vietnam via newly launched flights.

“This will enhance the region's profile, elevate farmers' incomes, and invigorate the local economy,” declared Pratap.

Farmers are now earning increased incomes as the air cargo services from the newly built airports enable them to access markets with better prices for their agricultural products.

“Improved connectivity is critical for enhancing the livelihoods of people in the North-Eastern states,” cited Manvendra Pratap Singh, Managing Director of the Assam Industrial Development Corporation.

The all-weather airports guarantee that farmers can avoid transportation delays, ensuring timely delivery of perishable goods.

Furthermore, the Government of India has rolled out the Krishi Udan scheme to facilitate seamless, cost-effective, and timely air transport of agricultural products from hilly and tribal regions in the North-East.

The development of airport facilities has allowed the tourism sector to tap into the vast potential of all eight states, resulting in a notable increase in visitor numbers. The last few years have seen a consistent rise in tourist arrivals.

In 2022, approximately 11.8 million domestic and 100,000 foreign tourists visited the region, and projections indicate a 25% year-on-year increase by 2025, according to the article.

The article also references a report titled ‘Unlocking the Economic Viability and Potential of North Eastern Airports’, published in the 'Journal of Law and Sustainable Development'.

“The expansion of airports and enhanced air connectivity in the North Eastern states of India has resulted in substantial socio-economic transformation in the region. The growth of North Eastern airports offers a promising opportunity for economic development, tourism enhancement, and cultural exchange,” states the report.