New Delhi: In a significant step towards transforming the infrastructure landscape of Northeast India, Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Mr. Jyotiraditya Scindia, today outlined the government’s ambitious plans for the region’s development. Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Scindia shared updates on key infrastructure projects that are set to drive economic growth, enhance connectivity, and foster inclusivity in this historically underserved region.
Mr. Scindia highlighted the substantial increase in investments earmarked for Northeast India. The central government has allocated ₹63,542 crore for the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme (SARDP-NE), which aims to upgrade and expand road networks across the region. The programme is set to cover 5,468 km of roads, of which 67% (3,699 km) have already been completed. This initiative is expected to drastically improve connectivity, reduce travel times, and enhance logistical efficiency in the region.
Further underlining the government’s commitment to Northeast India, Mr. Scindia revealed that 800 road projects, collectively worth ₹3,00,000 crore, have been launched as part of the ongoing infrastructure expansion.
One of the key areas of focus has been rail infrastructure, where the government has significantly increased budget allocation. The budget for rail projects in the Northeast has surged by 384%, reaching nearly ₹9,970 crore. In the past decade, 2,000 km of railway trackshave been constructed, bringing the region closer to a modern and integrated rail network. This expansion is set to improve the mobility of goods and passengers, contributing to the economic growth of the region.
Mr. Scindia also touched upon the growing focus on aviation infrastructure in the Northeast. The number of airports in the region has doubled, from 9 to 17 in recent years, improving connectivity between smaller towns and major metropolitan cities. These developments are part of a larger initiative to make Northeast India a key aviation hub, which is expected to boost tourism, trade, and employment opportunities.
In addition to transportation, Mr. Scindia emphasized the government’s efforts to improve energy and telecommunications infrastructure in the Northeast. Projects focused on renewable energy, along with expanding 4G connectivity, are expected to play a crucial role in the region’s overall development. Access to reliable power and modern communication networks will be vital in sustaining the rapid growth anticipated in the coming years.
One of the core principles driving this development agenda is inclusivity. Mr. Scindia stressed the government’s focus on ensuring that the benefits of infrastructure projects reach not only urban centers but also the rural and tribal populations in the region. He also highlighted the importance of sustainable infrastructure that balances economic growth with the environmental and geographical realities of Northeast India.
Looking towards the future, Mr. Scindia reiterated that Northeast India will remain a priority for the Indian government. With continued investment in road, rail, and air infrastructure, the region is poised for transformative growth. Mr. Scindia also set forth the goal of enhancing economic opportunities, improving quality of life, and fostering greater regional integration.
The government’s efforts are already beginning to show results, with the Northeast now better connected than ever before. As these infrastructure projects continue to unfold, Northeast India is expected to emerge as a key contributor to India’s economic progress, unlocking its vast potential for trade, tourism, and industrial growth.
