Is Northeast India Becoming a Major Economic Hub?

Synopsis
Northeast India is on a path to rapid economic growth, with Union Ministers highlighting its potential to become a central economic hub. Key initiatives and government policies are driving this transformation, fostering investments and improving infrastructure, making it an exciting time for the region.
Key Takeaways
- Northeast India is rapidly evolving into a key economic zone.
- Government initiatives are focused on infrastructure and tourism.
- The region is now a gateway to Southeast Asia.
- Employment opportunities are set to increase significantly.
- The Rising North East Investor Summit marks a new era of investment in the region.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) Several Union Ministers remarked that the northeastern region of India is experiencing swift development and is poised to become a key economic center in the nation.
In an exclusive interview with IANS during the Rising North East Investor Summit in the capital, Union Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized the government's dedicated initiatives in the area, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.
"The government is prioritizing infrastructure, tourism, hydropower, and other vital sectors in the Northeast. This targeted strategy is propelling rapid growth across all fronts," said Rijiju, who is from Arunachal Pradesh.
He stressed the importance of the Summit, describing it as a pivotal move towards establishing the region as a prominent economic zone.
Addressing the outdated perception of the Northeast as remote from Delhi, the minister countered that with the government’s Act East policy, the Northeast is now India’s gateway to Southeast Asia.
He further noted that the region is making significant strides in various domains, including trade, culture, and tourism.
Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh also commended the Modi government’s efforts in enhancing connectivity in the Northeast through improved railway, highway, and waterway systems.
"Handloom and handicrafts are intrinsic to the Northeast and create substantial employment opportunities," he stated.
Singh pointed out that previous governments had never conducted an investor summit for the Northeast.
"This initiative showcases PM Modi's dedication to fostering investments in the region. The Northeast is evolving into a hub of trade and development," he remarked.
Supporting this view, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio described the Rising North East Summit as a timely and beneficial initiative.
"This has been made possible through Prime Minister Modi’s vision and backing," he affirmed.
Regarding employment, Rio disclosed that his administration is devising a plan to create jobs for 500,000 youths in Nagaland by the year 2030.