NEC, DoNER played key role in transforming NE into growth engine: Scindia
Shillong, June 4
Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia on Thursday said that the Ministry of DoNER and the North Eastern Council have played a pivotal role in transforming the Northeast into a major driver of India's growth story through sustained investments in infrastructure, connectivity and development planning.
Addressing the 73rd Plenary Session of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Shillong, Scindia said the vision laid down by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had provided the foundation for the region's transformation.
"The creation of the Ministry of DoNER and the strengthening of institutions such as the NEC reflected the far-sighted vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji, who recognised the immense potential of the Northeast and sought to integrate it more closely with the country's development journey," he said.
The Union Minister described the NEC as a unique institution that serves both as a facilitator and a development partner for the eight northeastern states, helping bridge critical infrastructure and service gaps.
Scindia said the region has witnessed unprecedented progress over the past two decades, with improved road, rail and air connectivity, expansion of digital infrastructure, and enhanced access to public services.
Referring to the growing use of technology in governance and development planning, he highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in identifying infrastructure deficits and optimising resource allocation.
"Technology today enables governments to accurately identify where support is required, whether in healthcare, connectivity or other sectors. It helps determine existing gaps, avoid duplication and ensure that investments are targeted effectively," he said.
The minister also underlined the contribution of geospatial and digital mapping initiatives in strengthening planning processes and improving coordination between the Centre and states.
Scindia said the Northeast is now emerging as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia and a key contributor to India's economic growth, innovation and connectivity ambitions.
The plenary session, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, was attended by Governors and Chief Ministers of the eight northeastern states, senior officials and NEC members to review development priorities and regional cooperation initiatives.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone who's visited Shillong, I can see the changes. Roads are better, more flights connecting to major cities. But what about the insurgency issues? Peace is the real foundation for any growth. Hope the NEC continues working on that too.
Finally some attention to the Northeast! We are always overlooked in mainstream development. The data-driven planning sounds promising, but I hope local communities are also consulted. Development should not come at the cost of our culture and environment.
Vajpayee ji's vision truly is coming to life. The Northeast as a gateway to Southeast Asia is a brilliant idea. But will the benefits trickle down to the common people? Let's see the ground reality beyond these speeches.
Good initiative, but why does it take so long for these plenary sessions to show results? We need faster implementation of projects. The digital mapping and geospatial tools are great, but on ground, people still struggle with basic healthcare and education.
As someone from Assam, I appreciate the recognition of the Northeast's potential. But the devil is in the details. How many new jobs have been created? How much FDI has come in? Let's see some numbers before celebrating too much.
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