Government Initiatives for the Development of the North Eastern Region
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRT&H) has made significant strides in infrastructure development across the North Eastern Region (NER) of India, constructing over 16,000 kilometers of national highways. Additionally, the Ministry of Railways has sanctioned various railway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, while initiatives under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana have led to the completion of thousands of road works and bridges. Efforts to improve digital connectivity and air travel are also underway, reflecting a comprehensive approach to regional development.
Infrastructure Development Initiatives
The MoRT&H has successfully constructed 16,207 kilometers of national highways in the North Eastern Region. This extensive network plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and facilitating economic growth in the area. As of April 1, 2025, the Ministry of Railways has sanctioned 12 railway projects, which include eight new lines and four doubling projects, covering a total length of 777 kilometers. The total investment for these projects amounts to ₹69,342 crore, with ₹41,676 crore already spent by March 2025. These developments are expected to significantly improve transportation options for residents and businesses alike.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, a total of 17,637 road works spanning 89,436 kilometers have been sanctioned in the NER. Out of these, 16,469 road works covering 80,933 kilometers and 2,108 bridges have been completed. This initiative aims to enhance rural connectivity, ensuring that even the most remote areas are accessible. The ongoing projects reflect the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the region.
Digital Connectivity and Mobile Services
To bolster digital connectivity in the NER, various projects funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) have been initiated. These efforts aim to provide high bandwidth internet and mobile services to remote and rural villages. As part of the BharatNet project, 6,355 Gram Panchayats have been made service-ready, enhancing access to digital resources. Furthermore, 3,297 mobile towers have been commissioned across the NER under different government-funded mobile projects, significantly improving communication capabilities in the region.
These advancements in digital infrastructure are crucial for promoting economic development and ensuring that residents have access to essential services. By enhancing connectivity, the government aims to bridge the digital divide and empower local communities.
Regional Air Connectivity and Tourism Development
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN) to improve air travel accessibility in the NER. Under this scheme, 90 routes have been operationalized, connecting 12 airports and heliports across the northeastern states. This initiative aims to make air travel more affordable and accessible to the general public, thereby promoting tourism and economic growth in the region.
In addition to air connectivity, the Ministry of Tourism is actively involved in developing tourist destinations through various central sector schemes. These include Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, and the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD). These programs provide financial assistance to state governments and union territories, including those in the NER, to enhance tourism infrastructure and promote local attractions.
Financial Assistance for Development Projects
The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) is committed to supporting the eight northeastern states through financial assistance for various developmental projects. This support is provided under five central sector schemes, including NESIDS (Roads), NESIDS (OTRI), PM-DevINE, and Special Development Packages (SDPs).
The Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) was introduced in the Union Budget 2022-23, with a total outlay of ₹6,600 crore for the four-year period from 2022-23 to 2025-26. This scheme aims to fund infrastructure projects that address the specific needs of the NER, support social development, and enhance livelihood opportunities for youth and women. Through these initiatives, the government seeks to fill development gaps and promote sustainable growth in the region.
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