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Key Points

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia revealed that northeastern states have consistently exceeded 10% GBS spending targets, hitting 114% in some years. The government is streamlining inter-ministerial coordination to boost infrastructure projects under the ViksitNortheast initiative. Recent investor summits have unlocked Rs 5 lakh crore for the region, while airport connectivity has nearly doubled since 2014. Scindia positioned the northeast as critical to achieving India’s $30 trillion economy vision by 2047.

Key Points: Scindia Reports 114% GBS Utilisation in Northeast Development Projects

  • NE states exceeded 10% GBS targets with 114% utilisation in peak years
  • Scindia pushes inter-ministerial coordination for ViksitNortheast goals
  • Rs 5 lakh crore investments secured at Rising NE Summit 2025
  • Airport count doubled since 2014 with Arunachal getting 4 new airfields
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Average utilisation of 10 pc GBS for northeast reached up to 114 pc in some years: Minister

Jyotiraditya Scindia highlights 10% GBS overutilisation in NE states, cites infrastructure growth & Rs 5L cr investments under ViksitNortheast vision.

"Where there used to be nine airports in 2014, 17 airports have been built in the northeast. - Jyotiraditya Scindia"

New Delhi, July 25

In the last 11 years, the average utilisation of the 10 per cent Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) for the northeastern states has exceeded expectations, touching 104 per cent, 112 per cent, and even 114 per cent in certain years, according to Jyotiraditya Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).

Chairing a meeting of the consultative committee here, he said that ministries with ongoing shortfalls are being closely guided to set realistic targets, with strategic focus on high-value departments.

Scindia also underscored the critical role of MPs in identifying impactful projects and assured them that the DoNER Ministry will continue serving as an effective bridge between states, central ministries, and elected representatives.

The meeting was held to review and discuss further strengthening of coordination under the provision of the 10 per cent GBS for the ‘Ashtalakshmi’ states.

The meeting focused on strengthening inter-ministerial coordination, expediting grievance redressal, and ensuring that the mandated GBS allocation is translated into tangible development outcomes across the eight Ashtalakshmi states.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a whole-of-government approach, aligning this effort with the broader vision of a #ViksitNortheast and India’s Act East Policy.

Meanwhile, the recently concluded 'Rising North East Investors Summit 2025' attracted investments worth around Rs 5 lakh crore, making the region a true engine of India’s overall progress.

Where there used to be nine airports in 2014, 17 airports have been built in the northeast. States like Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim did not even have a single airport for 65 years. Today, Arunachal Pradesh has four airports and Sikkim has one airport, according to the minister.

There were 10,000 km of national highways in 2014. Today, there are 16,000 km of national highways.

The northeastern region holds the key to India’s $30-trillion vision towards Viksit Bharat at 2047, according to the minister.

—IANS

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the numbers look good, I wonder how much of this actually reaches the common people. My cousin in Assam says many roads are still in terrible condition despite the highway expansion claims. Need more ground-level verification.
R
Rohit P
Utilization exceeding 100%? That's interesting accounting! Either they're very efficient or carrying forward previous year's funds. Either way, hope the development is sustainable and benefits the local communities, not just outside contractors.
S
Sarah B
As someone who recently visited Sikkim, I can vouch for the improved connectivity. The new airport made my trip so much easier! The region has incredible tourism potential that's finally being unlocked. More power to #ViksitNortheast!
K
Karthik V
₹5 lakh crore investments is massive! But I hope environmental concerns aren't being overlooked in this development rush. Northeast is ecologically sensitive - development should be balanced with conservation.
N
Nisha Z
Good to see MPs being involved in project identification. Local representatives know the ground realities best. Hope this leads to more need-based development rather than just political showpieces.

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