Connectivity in the Northeastern Region Transformed Over the Last Decade: Officials
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Mumbai/Shillong, Dec 17 (NationPress) The northeastern region, which includes eight states, has experienced a remarkable transformation in its connectivity sectors over the past ten years, as stated by a senior official from the Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Ministry.
DoNER Ministry Secretary Chanchal Kumar emphasized that the last decade has seen a significant enhancement in the connectivity of the northeastern region, encompassing roads, railways, air travel, waterways, and digital connections, reaching even the most isolated areas.
While addressing the Northeast Trade and Investment Roadshow in Mumbai on Monday evening, Kumar mentioned, "Additionally, the northeastern states have crafted appealing policies in sync with the Central government to promote investment."
He encouraged investors to tap into the vast potential that the northeast region offers.
The official highlighted the region's impressive advancement fueled by infrastructure development, noting that the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contribution of the Northeastern Region stands at 2.9 percent, while the CAGR (Compounded Annual Growth Rate) of the region surpasses the national average.
DoNER Ministry Joint Secretary Monalisa Dash spoke at the roadshow, emphasizing the decade-long development initiatives and projects that have directly benefited local communities.
She pointed out that the northeast is evolving into a land filled with infinite opportunities, rich in minerals, biodiversity, and hydropower potential.
"With 17 operational airports, an expanding network of roads and railways, and 20 waterways, the region is undergoing a significant transformation. Key initiatives like the UNNATI Scheme, PM DevINE, and Ayushman Bharat support sustainable growth and development," Dash stated.
She also mentioned that the northeast, with its vibrant culture, boasts a high literacy rate, a flourishing sports sector, and a robust tourism industry that can attract further investment.
The official noted that as infrastructure continues to improve and policies become more aligned, the northeast is set to emerge as a hub for investment and growth, presenting endless opportunities for investors.
The DoNER Ministry organized the Northeast Trade and Investment Roadshow at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Colaba in Mumbai on Monday.
During the event, DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia pointed out that there exists a vast market for the northeastern states within Southeast Asian countries, highlighting the region's untapped resources.
Minister Scindia remarked that the northeastern states have the capacity to generate 56,000 MW of hydropower, indicating that the region is ready for investment across various sectors.
He further mentioned that over the past decade, the number of airports has increased from nine to 17, with an investment of Rs 90,000 crore in the railway sector.
Chief Ministers Manik Saha of Tripura and Conrad K Sangma of Meghalaya expressed that there is substantial potential for investments in their respective states.
Monday's roadshow in Mumbai marks the sixth event in an ongoing series, featuring presentations from the eight northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
