Northeast Emerging As India’s Growth Engine Under PM Modi’s Leadership: Scindia

Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, lauded the transformative development in the Northeast under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Speaking about the region's progress, Scindia emphasised the huge strides made in infrastructure, connectivity, and economic growth, which have collectively turned the Northeast into one of India’s fastest-growing regions.

Highlighting the expansion of infrastructure, Scindia pointed out the substantial growth in the region’s national highways network.

The total length of national highways in the Northeast has increased from 10,000 kilometres to over 16,000 kilometres, with 5,500 kilometres constructed in the last decade alone.

Similarly, railway connectivity has witnessed a dramatic boost, with construction rates increasing from 6.5 kilometres per month to over 19 kilometres per month.

Over 2,000 kilometres of new railway tracks have been added, and the region has achieved 100 per cent electrification of broad-gauge railway lines.

Scindia also noted that the number of operational airports in the region has grown from 9 to 17, and air traffic has doubled.

Furthermore, the development of waterways has expanded significantly, growing from just one waterway to 20, providing additional transportation options.

According to Scindia, the Northeast’s annual growth rate now ranges between 9.5 per cent and 11 per cent, far exceeding the national average of 6.5 per cent to 7.5 per cent.

He described the region as “India’s growth engine,” citing the establishment of a semiconductor factory in Assam with an investment of Rs 27,000 crore as a testament to the government’s focus on attracting investment.

Scindia also highlighted PM Modi’s vision of transforming remote areas into “vibrant villages,” particularly along India’s northeast borders with China, through increased ministerial visits and infrastructure development.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, echoed these sentiments, describing the Northeast’s transformation since 2014 as unprecedented.

Sonowal highlighted advancements in infrastructure, transportation, education, and organic farming, crediting the government’s targeted initiatives and financial commitment for the region’s progress.

The Northeast has also witnessed a dramatic rise in budgetary allocation, with funding increasing by over 300 per cent, from Rs 36,108 crore in 2014 to Rs 94,680 crore in the 2023-24 fiscal year. This financial surge underscores the government’s dedication to bridging the developmental gap in the region.

Scindia further highlighted the achievements in education and agriculture, noting a 39 per cent increase in the number of universities and the utilization of over 1.55 lakh hectares of land for organic farming, promoting sustainability.

Digital infrastructure has also seen rapid growth, with 4G connectivity now reaching almost every part of the region, ensuring digital inclusion for remote areas.

Sonowal emphasized the rejuvenation of inland waterways, which align with PM Modi’s vision of sustainable transportation development.

The revitalisation of the region’s riverine networks has enabled eco-friendly and cost-effective transport, further enhancing connectivity and trade.

Also Read: ED Restored Assets Worth Rs 22,280 Crore To Victims, Rightful Claimants: Nirmala Sitharaman