Northeast India is rapidly emerging as a powerhouse of economic growth and connectivity, driven by transformative infrastructure projects and strategic investments, according to a recent Press Information Bureau release. Under the leadership of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Act East” policy and “Transformation by Transportation” vision, the region is shedding its historical isolation to become a beacon of inclusive development.
Significant budgetary allocations have fueled infrastructure advancements, addressing long-standing gaps in connectivity. The North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS), restructured in 2022-23 and extended until 2026, has supported projects in roads, power, water supply, and other critical sectors. The Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), launched in 2022 with a Rs 6,600 crore outlay, is driving sustainable development aligned with PM GatiShakti, focusing on infrastructure, social development, and livelihood opportunities for youth and women.
Iconic projects like the Bogibeel Bridge, inaugurated in 2018, and the development of 10 greenfield airports over the past 11 years have revolutionized connectivity, boosting tourism in the region. The introduction of Roll-on Roll-off (Ro-Ro) waterway services on the Brahmaputra River, connecting Dhubri, Hathsingimari, and Guwahati, has enhanced logistics efficiency. A Rs 4,136 crore scheme approved in August 2024 for hydroelectric projects will support 15,000 MW of capacity by 2031-32, funded through the Ministry of Power’s Gross Budgetary Support.
Economic development has been a key focus, with 974 industrial units registered under NESIDS and Rs 1,010.99 crore disbursed for developmental packages by March 31, 2025, including Rs 400 crore in 2024-25. The Rising North East Investors Summit, held on May 23-24, 2025, drew Rs 4.3 lakh crore in investment interest from over 80 countries, positioning the region as India’s next economic hub. The summit highlighted a decade-long investment of Rs 21,000 crore in the Northeast’s education sector. Additionally, 126 Externally Aided Projects worth Rs 1,35,487.85 crore have been supported since 2017, further catalyzing growth.
The agricultural sector is thriving, with the region poised to lead India’s edible oil production and organic farming. The North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited (NERAMAC) has expanded its product range from 38 to 78, introducing innovative items like Organic Tea Box and Sumac Berry Powder. The Van Dhan Vikas Yojana has empowered 3.3 lakh tribal gatherers through 19,155 self-help groups, while 434 Farmer Producer Companies have benefited 2.19 lakh farmers across 1.73 lakh hectares. The agarwood sector has seen a six-fold increase in export quotas, with simplified processes enhancing value chain development in Assam and Tripura.
