How has the Northeast become India’s engine towards Viksit Bharat?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Northeastern region of India has become a driving force for development under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, aiming for Viksit Bharat by 2047. Jyotiraditya Scindia shares transformative insights and significant investments that promise prosperity.
Key Takeaways
- The Northeastern region is integral to India’s development vision.
- Infrastructure improvements include a significant increase in airports and highways.
- Investment influx of Rs 5 lakh crore showcases regional potential.
- Rail connectivity expansion aims to serve all eight states by 2027.
- PM Modi’s commitment to the Northeast is unparalleled in history.
New Delhi, July 2 (NationPress) The 36 states and Union Territories of India resemble a train, with the northeastern region emerging as the engine propelling towards the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, as stated by Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), on Wednesday.
During an exclusive discussion with IANS in the national capital, Scindia pointed out that the northeast had been deprived of development for the past 65 years, but in the last 11 years, it has undergone significant transformation in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and social security.
“Prime Minister Modi has made approximately 70 visits to the northeastern states, setting a record unmatched by any previous Prime Minister in the past 65 years,” said Scindia, emphasizing the region’s rich diversity and abundant resources.
The recently held 'Rising North East Investors Summit 2025' attracted investments close to Rs 5 lakh crore, solidifying the region's role as a pivotal contributor to India’s overall progress.
“In 2014, there were only nine airports; today, we have 17 airports in the northeast. States like Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim previously lacked airports, but now Arunachal has four and Sikkim has one,” the minister noted.
“National highways have increased from 10,000 km in 2014 to 16,000 km now. This means that in just 10 years, we have constructed nearly as much as was built in the previous 65 years,” Scindia added, highlighting the ongoing development of 40,000 km of rural roads and nearly 2,000 km of new railway lines.
“We are committed to enhancing rail services across all eight states with an investment of Rs 80,000 crore. Currently, rail services are operational in five states, and we aim to extend this to the remaining three by 2027,” he stated.
According to Scindia, the northeastern region is crucial for realizing India's ambitious $30-trillion vision for Viksit Bharat@2047.
At the summit, Scindia highlighted that the northeastern area has become a center for global partnerships and collaboration.
Point of View
The emphasis on Northeast India’s development underlines a significant shift in focus toward a previously neglected region. The initiatives led by the central government and the investments flowing in suggest a promising future, aligning with the national goal of Viksit Bharat. This approach not only fosters regional growth but also strengthens national unity.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Northeast in India's development?
The Northeast is seen as a crucial engine for India's growth, with ongoing infrastructure projects and investments aimed at transforming the region into a hub of progress.
How has the infrastructure in the Northeast changed?
Since 2014, the Northeast has seen a rise from nine to seventeen airports, and national highways have increased significantly, contributing to better connectivity and development.
What role does Prime Minister Modi play in Northeast development?
Prime Minister Modi has made around seventy visits to the Northeast, reflecting the government's commitment to the region's development and progress.
What investments have been made in the Northeast?
The 'Rising North East Investors Summit 2025' attracted investments worth approximately Rs 5 lakh crore, indicating a strong interest from investors in the region.
What are the future plans for rail connectivity in the Northeast?
The government aims to enhance rail services across all eight northeastern states, with a budget of Rs 80,000 crore, ensuring connectivity by 2027.
