Northeast region of India has seen remarkable growth in infrastructure over the past decade, with the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership driving major transformations. Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, recently highlighted these strides, showcasing the area’s significant progress in transportation and connectivity.
One of the standout achievements is the expansion of national highways in the region. Over the last ten years, the length of highways in the Northeast has surged from 10,000 km to over 16,000 km. This growth includes the addition of 5,500 km of new roads, a testament to the government’s focus on improving connectivity and reducing travel time across this diverse and geographically challenging region. In the railway sector, the pace of construction has more than tripled. Scindia pointed out that railway track construction has moved from 6.5 km per month to an impressive 19 km per month, resulting in more than 2,000 km of new railway tracks being added over the past decade. This expansion has drastically improved regional mobility, making it easier for people and goods to travel within the Northeast and beyond.
The growth of civil aviation in the region is also noteworthy. Air traffic has doubled in recent years, and the number of airports has increased from 9 to 17, further enhancing the region’s accessibility. These developments in air travel are not only beneficial for residents but also for business and tourism, as better connectivity brings more opportunities for economic growth. The expansion of waterways in the Northeast has also been significant, with the number of operational waterways increasing from just one to 20. This diversification in transportation options ensures greater flexibility and efficiency in moving goods and passengers throughout the region.
Economically, the Northeast is one of India’s fastest-growing regions, with annual growth rates ranging between 9.5% and 11%, surpassing the national average of 6.5% to 7.5%. With a surge in investments, including a ₹27,000 crore semiconductor factory in Assam, the region is rapidly becoming a key player in India’s economic landscape. A key focus of the government’s vision for the Northeast is the development of “vibrant villages,” especially in border areas near China. These efforts, which include increasing ministerial visits and improving infrastructure, aim to ensure that even the most remote areas of the Northeast are integrated into India’s growth story. This transformation of the Northeast is not just about physical infrastructure; it represents the region’s growing role in India’s overall development, contributing to the nation’s future success.
