Northeast Set to Become India’s Growth Engine
Addressing the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav in Delhi, PM Modi said, “For a long time, we have seen how development was weighed against votes. Northeastern states had less votes and low seats so previous governments did not pay attention to the development of the region. He pointed out that over the last decade, Union ministers have made over 700 visits to the region.
Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav: Showcasing Northeast’s Vibrancy
The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, being held from December 6 to 8 at Bharat Mandapam, aims to celebrate the rich cultural, social, and economic potential of the eight northeastern states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, and Sikkim. The event marks a historic moment for the northeast, positioning it as a gateway to development.
Also Read | Abdullah Ali Al Yahya Hails Narendra Modi As “One of the Wisest in World”
Cities of the Northeast Emerging as Growth Hubs
In his address, PM Modi highlighted cities like Guwahati, Shillong, Imphal, Itanagar, and Aizawl, which he believes will become new beacons of growth, similar to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. He stressed that the northeast’s vibrant culture and dynamic people hold immense potential to contribute to India’s overall growth.
Peace Agreements and Improved Security in the Region
Modi also referenced the numerous historic peace agreements signed in the region and the reduction of violence, particularly with the removal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from many districts. He praised the progress made on border disputes between states and emphasized the government’s efforts to bring peace to the region.
Leaders Praise Government’s Transformation of Northeast
Sonowal criticized the Congress for its past inaction, accusing them of failing the region and demanded an apology from the Congress for its failure to improve the region’s condition. He praised Modi’s strategic approach to rejuvenating the northeast as India’s growth engine, citing a dramatic increase in the region’s budget—from ₹36,108 crore in 2014 to ₹94,680 crore in 2023-24.