New Delhi, June 20 (IANS). Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Saturday that North-East India has now become home to many important global destinations, which are setting an example of sustainable and inclusive development.
In a post on social media platform He said that from the world’s first 100 per cent organic state to the world’s longest two-lane tunnel and highest girder rail bridge, the North-Eastern region has achieved many global achievements.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also said in an ex-post that the eight states of the North-East were once considered far away from the mainstream of development. But today these states are emerging as the new engines of India’s development journey, full of prosperity, power and immense potential.
According to an official fact sheet, the development scenario of the North Eastern region has witnessed a remarkable change in the last 12 years. This transformation has been possible due to sustained policy support, expansion of infrastructure and inclusive development programmes.
Improvements in road, rail, air and digital connectivity have reduced the geographical remoteness and isolation of the region. Besides, it has also strengthened regional integration and economic access.
During this period, there has been significant improvement in people’s access to clean drinking water, sanitation, housing, health services and education.
The impact of these changes is clearly visible in both urban and rural areas and the standard of living of the people has improved.
The fact sheet said the North-Eastern region has now emerged as an important pillar of India’s clean energy transition journey and “Act East” policy.
This transformation has been possible thanks to investments in hydropower projects, gas infrastructure and cross-border connectivity.
All these efforts have established “Ashtalakshmi” as a model of sustainable and inclusive growth within developed India.
This development journey has moved forward under the guidance of continuous policy support since 2014. It balances growth with environmental sensitivity, efficient use of resources and long-term sustainability.
Northeast India is now emerging as a new gateway to opportunities and international engagement. Today “Ashtalakshmi” has become a symbol of a region that is more connected, stronger and better prepared for future challenges.
–IANS
DBP