GUWAHATI, Feb 6: Union Minister for Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, urged Chennai’s entrepreneurial community to invest in the Northeast during the Northeast Trade and Investment Roadshow held in the city on Wednesday.

In his address, Scindia emphasized investment opportunities across various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, IT, textiles, and energy. He encouraged Tamil Nadu’s industrialists to explore these prospects and leverage Chennai’s expertise in IT, software, manufacturing, logistics, education, talent creation, and urban development to benefit the Northeast.

Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s words, Scindia referred to the Northeast as “Ashtalakshmi” – a vital part of India’s economic future. He noted the region’s improved infrastructure, which now includes better roads, railways, airways, and waterways. Scindia also highlighted the Northeast’s strategic location near Southeast Asia, which makes it an essential component of India’s Act East Policy.

The Minister outlined key investment opportunities, particularly in sectors like tourism, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, IT, textiles, and energy. He drew attention to the fact that the Northeast holds 38% of India’s bamboo resources, a resource that could benefit Chennai’s burgeoning furniture industry. Furthermore, Scindia pointed out the region’s significant untapped potential in hydrocarbon reserves and hydropower.

Mizoram’s Minister of Sports and Youth Services, Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, shared insights about his state’s strengths, including a flourishing horticulture sector. Mizoram produces GI-tagged ginger and chilies, as well as a variety of fruits like oranges, papayas, and dragon fruit. Hmar also discussed the state’s expanding sports industry, aligning with India’s vision for the 2036 Olympics.

Chanchal Kumar, Secretary of MDoNER, spoke about the Northeast’s economic growth, which has been faster than the national average. He also emphasized the region’s young, English-speaking workforce and strong trade connections, making it an ideal location for investment. Kumar highlighted the government’s UNNATI scheme, which provides incentives for businesses investing in the region.

The roadshow included Business-to-Government (B2G) meetings, where investors explored potential collaborations. The event was considered a success, with many participants expressing keen interest in investing, which will contribute to promoting economic growth in the Northeast.