NEW DELHI, May 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday declared that the northeastern region of India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, shifting from a history of conflict to becoming a hub of development and investment. Speaking at the Rising North East Investors Summit, PM Modi stated, “The Northeast is witnessing unprecedented progress. We are determined to accelerate its growth story.”
The summit, which gathers key stakeholders from across the country, includes the presence of leading industry figures such as Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and Anil Agarwal. Modi emphasised that the region’s cultural and ethnic diversity is its greatest strength, and introduced a new vision encapsulated in the acronym EAST — Empower, Act, Strengthen, and Transform — highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive development in the Northeast.
“There was a time when Northeast was only called frontier, now it is frontrunner of growth,” the Prime Minister said, underscoring the shift in perception and policy towards the region.
He also noted a significant decline in regional insurgency, stating, “Over 10,000 youths in the Northeast have given up violence in the last decade.” Modi reiterated his government’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and Naxalism, reflecting the administration’s focus on peace and security as foundations for development.
The two-day investors summit, the result of months of preparation including roadshows, diplomatic outreach, and state-level discussions, aims to present the Northeast as a land of opportunity. Organised in collaboration with both central and state governments, the event is designed to attract both domestic and foreign investment.
Key sectors identified for investment at the summit include tourism and hospitality, agro-food processing, textiles and handicrafts, healthcare, education, IT services, infrastructure, logistics, energy, entertainment, and sports. The event also features startup showcases and policy exhibitions to further stimulate investor interest and highlight the region’s potential.
