NEW DELHI, March 28: Union Minister for Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia, expressed confidence on Friday that the northeastern region of India is set to emerge as the “economic engine” of the nation. He highlighted that the region is not only adopting new digital technologies but is also playing a pivotal role in India’s growing economic expansion.
During the annual session of the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Scindia noted that significant development activities have been carried out under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including expanding air, road, and rail connectivity, as well as enhancing waterways in the northeast. The region now boasts 17 airports and is also well connected digitally.
“The northeast region has witnessed tremendous progress, with each of its eight states embodying unique strengths, resources, and opportunities. This region is becoming an invaluable asset to India’s growth,” Scindia said.
The minister added that, as part of the government’s commitment, most villages in the region are already digitally connected, and by August-September of this year, all villages will have 4G and 5G connectivity through the BharatNet programme. This initiative will also include the installation of 27,000 cell towers, of which 15,000 have already been completed. The project is expected to be fully operational by the end of this year, ensuring that every inch of the country, including the northeast, is connected with broadband.
Scindia also pointed out that women in the northeast have been quick to leverage digital connectivity to expand their businesses. The North East Region Agri Commodity E-Connect (NERACE), launched by the government, has been particularly beneficial in integrating farmers with sellers, enhancing agricultural connectivity. Through this app, farmers in the region are now able to sell products like Kiwis and other agricultural items globally.
FLO president Joyshree Das Verma, who also spoke at the event, emphasized the importance of economic empowerment of women. “The development of our nation is intrinsically linked to the empowerment of its women, and the most effective way to empower women is through a women-led development approach,” she stated.
