How Did the Northeast Evolve from a Backward Frontier to a Growth Leader? PM Modi
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon India Inc. to invest in the northeastern states, highlighting a remarkable transformation over the last 11 years. This summit presents a unique opportunity to discover the untapped potential of the region and engage with key stakeholders driving growth.
Key Takeaways
- Significant transformation from a backward region to a growth leader.
- Investment opportunities in infrastructure development.
- Government's commitment to education and skill development.
- Improved connectivity through roads, railways, and digital networks.
- Peace restoration as a foundation for development.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged India Inc. to seize the first-mover advantage in investing in the northeastern states, which have been transformed over the past 11 years from a backward "frontier region to a growth front-runner."
Speaking at the Rising North East Investors Summit in the national capital, PM Modi emphasized that the government's policies have prioritized the development of the northeast, placing the region at the forefront of India’s growth narrative.
He noted that Union Cabinet ministers had made over 700 visits to the northeastern states, with a mandate for overnight stays to better understand local realities and aspirations during their visits.
This approach allowed the Centre to gather firsthand insights into the ground-level scenario, helping to shape effective development strategies, he added.
The growth story of the northeast is not merely about infrastructure but also about forming an emotional connection that has led to significant advancements in the region.
According to PM Modi, the infrastructure revolution has turned this historically underdeveloped area into a land of opportunities.
He detailed that over 11,000 km of highways, hundreds of kilometers of railway lines, and enhanced waterways have significantly improved connectivity in the region. Moreover, extensive mobile tower installations for 4G and 5G services, along with a 1600 km gas pipeline grid, have been established.
This infrastructure serves as the backbone for industries, providing adequate power, highways, and logistics, enabling further development.
He also mentioned that peace has been restored in the region, with over 10,000 youths laying down their arms to reintegrate into society, thanks to the government's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and violence.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the Centre has invested more than Rs 21,000 crore in the education sector within the region, enhancing schools, medical colleges, IITs, and technical institutes. Consequently, a skilled workforce is now available for various industries.
The two-day summit, occurring from May 23-24, aims to position the Northeast Region (NER) as a vibrant and emerging investment hotspot. This event seeks to attract both national and international investors by showcasing the region's untapped economic potential and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, investors, industry leaders, and policymakers.
This summit is the culmination of strategic pre-summit engagements initiated by the Central government, involving all eight northeastern states. These engagements included high-profile roadshows, state roundtables, an Ambassadors’ Meet, and discussions with bilateral chambers of commerce.
Successful roadshows were conducted in major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Guwahati, and New Delhi to create momentum and generate investor interest in the region.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the transformative journey of the Northeast. The region, once seen as a mere frontier, is now emerging as a vital growth hub in India. This shift is not merely infrastructural but also emotional, as it brings communities together and fosters skilled manpower for industries. The government’s commitment to peace and development is commendable and lays a solid foundation for future investments.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What has been the transformation in the Northeast over the past 11 years?
The Northeast has evolved from a backward region to a growth front-runner, characterized by significant infrastructure development and improved connectivity.
Why is the Rising North East Investors Summit important?
The summit aims to showcase the Northeast as a dynamic investment destination, attracting both domestic and global investors to tap into its untapped economic potential.
How much has the government invested in the education sector in the Northeast?
The government has invested over Rs 21,000 crore in the education sector, enhancing schools, medical colleges, IITs, and technical institutes in the region.
What infrastructure developments have taken place in the Northeast?
Over 11,000 km of highways, hundreds of kilometers of railway lines, and extensive mobile tower installations for 4G and 5G connectivity have transformed the region.
What steps have been taken to ensure peace in the Northeast?
The government has adhered to a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and violence, resulting in over 10,000 youths returning to mainstream society.
