Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, recently discussed the remarkable transformation of Northeast India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the past decade, the Modi government has focused on good governance and developmental politics to bring significant changes to the region, particularly through infrastructure development, improved connectivity, and welfare initiatives. This transformation is seen as part of the government's broader vision for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, where Northeast India plays a critical role as a growth engine for the nation.

Substantial Increase in Budget Allocation and Infrastructure Growth

One of the standout features of the NDA government’s governance in the Northeast has been the remarkable increase in budget allocation, which has grown by 300%. This surge in funding has enabled a substantial boost in infrastructure development across the region. Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized that this funding has facilitated key improvements, including an expansion in the region’s national highways, as well as a 370% increase in the railway budget. This budget enhancement has led to 100% broad gauge electrification, drastically improving connectivity and reducing transportation time across Northeast India.

In addition to roads and railways, the region has seen a rise in the number of operational airports, increasing from 9 to 17. This development ensures greater connectivity, not only within the region but also with other parts of India and neighboring countries, facilitating trade, tourism, and economic development.

Welfare Initiatives Transforming Lives

Beyond infrastructure, the government’s welfare initiatives have made a huge impact on the lives of people in the Northeast. Over 7,000 villages in the region have been provided with piped drinking water, significantly improving public health. The education sector has also seen a 39% increase in universities, leading to greater access to quality education for students across the region. 4G connectivity has expanded across the area, ensuring that remote regions benefit from the digital revolution.

In terms of agriculture, the push for organic farming has been a key focus, with over 1.55 lakh hectares of land now cultivated organically. This not only boosts the local economy but also enhances the region's agricultural exports and creates sustainable farming practices.

Waterways Development and Regional Connectivity

Waterways development has also been a critical component of the region’s transformation. Mr. Sonowal outlined efforts to rejuvenate the Brahmaputra River, specifically through National Waterway 2, which is part of the larger Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route. This initiative aims to enhance trade access between Northeast India and its neighboring countries, offering a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation option. The development of permanent RCC terminals and the establishment of the region's first ship repair facility at Pandu Port are critical steps in strengthening port infrastructure and boosting the maritime economy.

Promoting Riverine Tourism and Enhancing Connectivity

One of the most exciting aspects of Northeast India's development is the promotion of riverine tourism, particularly along the Brahmaputra River. The success of the Ganga Vilas cruise has provided a model for future tourism projects, with the government working to establish tourist jetties along the river to promote travel and tourism. These initiatives not only promote tourism but also highlight the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Ongoing and Future Projects

Looking to the future, the government has laid out plans for over 4,016 km of new roads, further improving regional connectivity. These ongoing projects, along with the focus on ship repair facilities and other infrastructure upgrades, will continue to drive Northeast India’s development in the years to come.

The efforts to transform Northeast India are part of the government’s broader goal of making India self-reliant in all sectors, a vision encapsulated in the idea of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The region’s progress in infrastructure, connectivity, and welfare is laying the foundation for it to become a key player in India’s overall growth and development.

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