Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently reaffirmed that the development of Northeast India has always remained a top priority for the Narendra Modi-led government. During his visit to Arunachal Pradesh, Shah emphasized the transformational changes that have taken place in the region over the last decade, crediting the Prime Minister’s unwavering focus on inclusive growth, connectivity, and security.
Speaking at a public event, Amit Shah said, “Before 2014, the Northeast was ignored and underdeveloped. But after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, the region received unprecedented attention in terms of infrastructure, economic investment, and integration into the national mainstream.”
Historic Neglect and a New Era
The Northeast region, comprising eight states, had historically suffered from neglect, limited infrastructure, and inadequate central funding. However, since 2014, the Modi government has launched numerous initiatives to bring the region at par with the rest of the country.
Shah pointed out that the Union government has sanctioned record funds for road, rail, and air connectivity projects. Under the Bharatmala and UDAN schemes, remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram are now connected with major Indian cities. “Today, the Northeast is not only connected physically but emotionally and economically to the rest of India,” Shah added.
Major Infrastructure Achievements
Under the Modi government, several landmark infrastructure projects have been executed in the Northeast. These include:
- Bogibeel Bridge in Assam, India’s longest rail-road bridge.
- Railway connectivity in Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.
- Greenfield airports in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam.
- Highway expansion, with over 10,000 km of national highways built across the region.
These projects not only improve connectivity but also attract investment, promote tourism, and create employment.
Political Stability and Peace Initiatives
One of the major achievements cited by Amit Shah was the improvement in law and order in the region. The Modi government has signed several peace accords, including those with insurgent groups like the NLFT in Tripura and Bodo factions in Assam.
“The Northeast has seen more peace and less violence under this government. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, or AFSPA, has been withdrawn from several parts of the region due to improved security conditions,” Shah highlighted.
Additionally, the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system has been strengthened to protect the cultural and demographic uniqueness of tribal communities, while promoting responsible development.
Cultural and Economic Integration
Amit Shah also emphasized the importance of cultural respect and economic empowerment in the development narrative. The government has promoted traditional crafts, textiles, and organic agriculture from the region through various schemes and international platforms.
Under the “Act East Policy,” the Northeast serves as India’s gateway to Southeast Asia. New trade routes and infrastructure in states like Mizoram and Manipur now boost cross-border trade with countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and Bangladesh.
Empowering Youth and Women
The Modi government has also made special efforts to empower the youth and women of the Northeast. Schemes such as Startup India, Digital India, and Skill India have been extended actively in the region. New educational institutions, including medical colleges and central universities, have also been set up to give local talent opportunities within their own states.
The Modi government’s vision for the Northeast goes beyond short-term gains. As Amit Shah reiterated, the aim is to bring long-lasting peace, prosperity, and pride to a region rich in diversity and potential. With continued focus on connectivity, cultural integration, and sustainable growth, the Northeast stands poised to become a growth engine of New India.
