‘Empower, Act, Strengthen, Transform’: PM Modi touts Northeast as new investment hub at Delhi summit
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday emphasised the rapid development in India’s Northeastern region, asserting that the government is committed to accelerating its growth trajectory.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the two-day Rising North East Investors Summit in New Delhi, the Prime Minister stated, “The Northeast is witnessing unprecedented progress. We are determined to accelerate its growth story.” He highlighted the region’s diversity as its greatest strength, adding that it is now “emerging as the frontrunner of growth”.
The event is being attended by chief ministers from the Northeastern states, Union ministers, senior bureaucrats, diplomats, and other key stakeholders.
EAST: Empower, Act, Strengthen, Transform
Reiterating his government’s commitment to inclusive development, Prime Minister Modi explained that for his administration, EAST stands for “Empower, Act, Strengthen and Transform”.
“There was a time when the Northeast was only referred to as a frontier. Now, it is the frontrunner of growth,” he said, reflecting on the transformation the region has undergone under his leadership.
From conflict to opportunity
Recalling the troubled past of the region, Modi said, “The Northeast was earlier synonymous with bombs, guns, and rockets which deprived many young people of opportunities.”
He noted that in the past decade, more than 10,000 youths have renounced violence in the region.
He further stated that his government maintains a policy of zero tolerance towards both terrorism and Naxalism.
Summit aims to boost investment
The Rising North East Investors Summit aims to position the Northeast as a land of opportunity, drawing both domestic and international investment. It brings together investors, policymakers, and other stakeholders to promote economic development in the region.
The summit is the result of several pre-event initiatives, including roadshows, state-level roundtables, and diplomatic engagements coordinated by the central government in collaboration with state governments of the Northeastern region.
Focus sectors and key attendees
Key industrialists including Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and Anil Agarwal were present at the summit's opening session.
The event will feature ministerial addresses, business-to-government discussions, B2B meetings, startup showcases, and exhibitions. Participating states and central ministries will present various policy initiatives designed to encourage investment.
Sectors identified as priorities for investment include tourism and hospitality, agro-food processing, textiles, handloom and handicrafts, healthcare, education and skill development, IT and IT-enabled services, infrastructure, energy, entertainment, and sports.
PTI inputs