Government Highlights Progress in Northeast Region, Says Sarbananda Sonowal
In a significant appeal to investors, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, urged both global and domestic stakeholders to tap into the vast growth opportunities in Northeast India. Speaking at the Riding Northeast Investor Summit in New Delhi, he emphasized the region’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership, positioning it as a vital component of India’s economic future. The summit highlighted the need for investment in infrastructure, particularly in maritime and inland waterways, to further unlock the region’s potential.
Transformative Growth in Northeast India
Shri Sonowal articulated the remarkable changes that Northeast India has experienced over the past decade. He attributed this transformation to the dedicated efforts of the Modi government, which has shifted perceptions of the region from being remote and isolated to becoming a crucial gateway to Southeast Asia. The minister noted that the region is now a significant chapter in India’s growth narrative, showcasing its potential for economic development. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive infrastructure, particularly in maritime and inland waterways, which are reshaping the economic landscape of the Northeast.
The minister pointed out that over 700 visits by Cabinet Ministers to the region in the last ten years demonstrate the government’s focus on its development. He emphasized the importance of inland waterways, stating that they represent a promising frontier for growth. With more than 20 notified National Waterways in the region, initiatives like the Jalvahak scheme aim to enhance multi-modal connectivity, create logistics hubs, and facilitate cargo movement. This infrastructure development is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity.
Logistics and Trade Advantages
During his address, Shri Sonowal underscored India’s logistics advantages, noting that a substantial portion of the country’s tradeโ90% by volume and 70% by valueโrelies on shipping. He highlighted the potential of the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route and the Sittwe Port in Myanmar as transformative elements in enhancing transportation and unlocking economic value for the region. These developments are expected to facilitate smoother trade routes and bolster the Northeast’s connectivity with neighboring countries.
The minister also discussed the region’s rich talent pool and announced new initiatives aimed at maritime skill development for the youth. These programs will prepare them for careers in port operations, vessel management, and logistics, thereby contributing to the region’s economic growth. Additionally, he pointed out the potential for medical tourism in the Northeast, leveraging its natural beauty and wellness traditions, alongside the growing healthcare infrastructure.
Investment Opportunities and Future Prospects
Shri Sonowal emphasized that the market potential of Northeast India extends beyond domestic consumption. The region’s strategic location provides direct access to ASEAN and BBIN nations, offering investors unparalleled opportunities to reach over 600 million consumers in neighboring economies. This connectivity positions Northeast India as a vital player in the broader economic landscape, attracting investment in various sectors, including logistics, tourism, and healthcare.
The Riding Northeast Investor Summit attracted significant participation from domestic and international investors, development agencies, and policy leaders. Shri Sonowal’s address served as a clarion call for aligning investments with the government’s infrastructure initiatives. With its abundant natural resources, improved connectivity, and youthful demographic, Northeast India is poised to become a key driver of India’s growth story, contributing to a more inclusive and integrated New Bharat.
The summit concluded with a strong message of optimism for the future, as stakeholders recognized the immense potential of Northeast India in shaping the nationโs economic trajectory.
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