Assam BJP President Dilip Saikia on November 8, 2025, said that the pace of development in the Northeast. Further, has seen an unprecedented boost under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past 11 years.
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Speaking at a press interaction in Guwahati, Saikia emphasized that the transformation of Assam. And, other northeastern states is a direct result of Modi’s consistent focus on connectivity, infrastructure, and inclusive growth.
He noted that the Northeast, once considered a neglected region, has now become a priority zone in India’s national development agenda, symbolizing the success of the government’s “Act East” policy.
“PM Modi Has Brought the Northeast into the Mainstream”
Saikia underlined that under Modi’s leadership, the Northeast has moved from isolation to integration. Major projects in road, rail, and air connectivity have connected previously inaccessible regions, reducing travel time and promoting trade and tourism.
He stated that the Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti plan, alongside investments in border infrastructure, has created new opportunities for economic activity and employment. “From Arunachal to Tripura, and from Assam to Mizoram, development is visible in every corner,” Saikia said.
He added that the government’s focus is not only on physical infrastructure but also on social and digital infrastructure, ensuring that people across the region benefit from modern amenities and e-governance initiatives.
Massive Infrastructure Push Across Assam
Highlighting Assam’s achievements, Saikia pointed out several projects that have transformed the state’s connectivity landscape.
He mentioned the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, the Bogibeel Bridge, and the expanded network of national highways as examples of how Modi’s government has prioritized infrastructure growth.
Assam has also witnessed substantial progress in the aviation sector. With new airports and improved connectivity linking the state to major Indian cities and Southeast Asian destinations.
He said that the Guwahati–North Guwahati bridge, the revamp of Assam’s inland waterways, and ongoing industrial corridor projects are all part of Modi’s broader vision for a developed Northeast.
“These are not just projects; they are lifelines of progress,” Saikia remarked, adding that each initiative reflects the Centre’s unwavering commitment to the people of Assam.
From Neglect to Nurture: A New Era for the Northeast
According to Saikia, the Modi government’s approach marks a fundamental shift in how the Northeast is viewed in national policy.
For decades, the region faced challenges like poor connectivity, unemployment, and underinvestment. Today, the narrative has changed. The BJP leader stressed that development has reached even the remotest villages. With new schools, healthcare centres, and self-employment initiatives empowering communities.
He credited schemes such as PM Gram Sadak Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission. And PM Awas Yojana for transforming lives in rural Assam. Under these programs, thousands of households have gained access to clean drinking water, proper housing, and better road networks.
“The difference is visible. People no longer feel left out of India’s growth story,” Saikia said proudly.
Boosting Employment and Entrepreneurship
The Assam BJP chief also highlighted the role of central and state initiatives in boosting entrepreneurship and youth employment.
Under the Startup India Mission, many young entrepreneurs from Assam have launched innovative ventures in agri-tech, tourism, and renewable energy.
Additionally, the North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS) has drawn investors to the region, with Assam emerging as a hub for manufacturing and logistics.
Saikia pointed out that the Make in Northeast initiative, which encourages local production and exports, has begun showing results. He said the region’s rich biodiversity and skilled workforce are its biggest assets for sustainable growth.
Peace and Stability as Foundations for Growth
Saikia noted that the success of development efforts in the Northeast is also linked to the restoration of peace and stability in the region.
Under PM Modi’s leadership, several peace accords and settlement agreements were signed with insurgent groups, bringing decades-long conflicts to an end.
He remarked that “development cannot thrive without peace,” and the Modi government’s strategy of dialogue, trust-building, and economic empowerment has transformed the security landscape.
Today, the region enjoys a greater sense of safety, enabling industries, tourism, and education to flourish.
Assam’s Role in the Act East Policy
Saikia also underscored Assam’s strategic role in India’s Act East Policy, which positions the state as a gateway to Southeast Asia.
With improved border trade facilities, transnational highways, and the ongoing India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway project, Assam stands at the heart of India’s new economic corridors.
“These developments are helping the Northeast connect not just with the rest of India, but with the entire ASEAN region,” he said.
“Development for All, Discrimination for None”
In closing, Saikia reiterated the BJP’s guiding principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.”
He called upon the people of Assam to continue supporting this vision of inclusive progress. “The Northeast is no longer on the periphery it is the pride and potential of India’s growth,” he said.
Saikia urged citizens, especially the youth, to participate actively in development programs. And help shape Assam’s future as a model state for innovation, peace, and prosperity.