The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has increased its allocation for National Highway projects in the region. For the financial year 2025–26, the total outlay has been raised to Rs 1600 crore, up from the previous allocation of Rs 1060 crore.
This marks a substantial increase in funding aimed at improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in the northeastern states. Among the states, Arunachal Pradesh has been allocated the highest share, receiving Rs 1300 crore. This allocation underscores the strategic importance of the state, which shares international borders with China, Myanmar, and Bhutan. The development of robust road infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh is seen as crucial for enhancing connectivity, facilitating trade, and ensuring national security in the border areas. Other northeastern states have also received allocations to bolster their road infrastructure. Assam has been allocated Rs 120 crore, Meghalaya Rs 135 crore, Sikkim Rs 30 crore, Manipur Rs 10 crore, and Tripura Rs 5 crore. These funds will be utilized for ongoing and sanctioned National Highway works across the six northeastern states, including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, and Tripura.
The increased funding is part of the government’s broader initiative to improve road infrastructure in the Northeast. Over the past decade, the region has seen the construction of 9984 kilometers of National Highways, with an expenditure of Rs 1,07,504 crore. Currently, 265 National Highway projects are under implementation, covering 5055 kilometers, with a projected investment of Rs 1,18,894 crore . The development of these highways is expected to have a transformative impact on the region. Improved road connectivity will facilitate the movement of goods and people, promote tourism, and stimulate economic activities. Additionally, enhanced infrastructure will play a vital role in national security by ensuring better access to border areas. The funds will be utilized for various projects, including the upgrade of existing roads, construction of new highways, and development of border infrastructure.
The projects will be executed through state Public Works Departments (PWDs), MoRTH Project Implementation Units (PIUs), and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). MoRTH has emphasized that the funds should be used strictly for sanctioned National Highway works, with no claims allowed beyond approved project limits. The allocation of funds for Arunachal Pradesh, in particular, highlights the government’s focus on strengthening infrastructure in border areas. The development of the Frontier Highway, a key project in Arunachal Pradesh, aims to improve connectivity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The highway will also facilitate the development of various hydropower projects within the state and promote tourism in previously inaccessible areas
In conclusion, the increased allocation for National Highway projects in Northeast India reflects the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the region. The substantial investment is expected to drive economic growth, enhance connectivity, and bolster national security, particularly in strategically important states like Arunachal Pradesh.
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