Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, emphasized on Thursday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions the Northeast, including Tripura, as a crucial growth engine for modern India. Addressing a press conference during his recent visit to Agartala, Margherita highlighted the importance of the region in India’s development strategy and outlined several initiatives the central government has implemented to boost infrastructure, connectivity, and overall economic growth in the Northeast.
Margherita stated that under the Modi administration, the Northeast has witnessed unprecedented investment in various sectors. Projects focusing on road, rail, and air connectivity have transformed the region, bridging the gap between the Northeast and the rest of the country. According to Margherita, the government is committed to realizing the full potential of these states and believes that the Northeast has a unique role to play in India’s journey toward becoming a global economic powerhouse. The minister noted that infrastructure development is only one aspect of the government’s broader agenda. The goal is not just to enhance connectivity but also to promote sustainable growth that benefits local communities directly.
He emphasized that investment in the Northeast isn’t limited to infrastructure. The government has been focusing on sectors like tourism, textiles, and skill development, which hold significant promise for economic diversification. In Tripura specifically, the development of the textile industry has been prioritized. With its rich cultural heritage and availability of skilled artisans, Tripura is well-positioned to become a major textile hub in the country. According to Margherita, efforts are underway to improve both production quality and market access for local artisans, allowing them to compete in national and international markets. The aim is to empower the local population, ensuring they have access to sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Margherita also spoke about the strategic importance of the Northeast in India’s Act East policy, which seeks to strengthen economic ties with Southeast Asian nations. With its geographical proximity to countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, and beyond, the Northeast serves as a gateway to these regions. Margherita said the Modi government envisions the Northeast as a pivotal player in boosting trade and cultural exchanges with India’s eastern neighbors. He mentioned ongoing initiatives to improve border infrastructure and streamline cross-border trade, which he believes will further integrate the Northeast into India’s economic landscape and foster stronger international relations.
The minister highlighted several upcoming projects aimed at transforming the region’s infrastructure landscape. He pointed out that the central government has allocated significant funds for highway projects, expansion of railway lines, and the development of new airports. In Tripura alone, multiple projects are underway to improve road networks, ensuring better connectivity between urban centers and rural areas. Margherita expressed optimism that these improvements would bring more businesses to the region, driving job creation and economic growth. He mentioned that projects like the Indo-Bangla railway and the Tripura-Kolkata inland waterways are expected to revolutionize trade, providing Northeast India with better access to both national and international markets.
Margherita also discussed the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability in its development approach. He emphasized that the central government’s plans for the Northeast are not purely driven by economic objectives but are also aligned with ecological considerations. Acknowledging the region’s rich biodiversity and natural resources, he said that the government is working on sustainable development models that minimize environmental impact. Projects are being designed to preserve the region’s ecological balance while providing infrastructure improvements, which he believes will support tourism as well as the local economy.
The Union Minister lauded the contributions of local leaders in advancing these initiatives. He credited Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb and other state officials with playing a vital role in facilitating central projects. Margherita stated that the cooperation between the central and state governments has been instrumental in the success of these projects, underscoring that a collaborative approach is key to the region’s development. He urged local leaders to continue working closely with the central government, expressing confidence that this partnership would yield lasting benefits for the people of Tripura and the entire Northeast.
During his visit, Margherita also met with local community leaders and emphasized the importance of grassroots engagement in development efforts. He stated that for the government’s vision to be realized, it is crucial to ensure that local communities are involved in decision-making processes. According to Margherita, feedback from the public has been instrumental in shaping various initiatives, and the government remains committed to fostering a participatory approach to development. He encouraged community leaders to actively engage with their constituents and relay their concerns to government officials, ensuring that the development process is inclusive and benefits everyone in the region.
Margherita reiterated that Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to the Northeast is unwavering. He emphasized that the government views the Northeast, including Tripura, as a key player in India’s path to modernization and prosperity. Margherita expressed optimism about the future, noting that with continued investment, collaboration, and community involvement, the Northeast would become a vibrant economic zone, driving India’s growth in the years to come.
