NITI Aayog today convened an interaction with the Chief Ministers of the North-Eastern States. Chief Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura participated and deliberated on development priorities, innovations and challenges. Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu highlighted that the North East is undergoing a significant transformation and emerging as a key engine of growth. Emphasising the State’s immense potential, particularly in hydropower, he stressed the need to further strengthen the skills and capacity building of its human resources.
Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma opined that development must be balanced to avoid regional disparities and ensure inclusive growth. He appreciated the historic tripartite MoU signed yesterday between Government of India, Assam and Nagaland for facilitating mineral oil operations in the Assam-Nagaland boundary areas, highlighting it as a model of cooperative development. Mr Sarma also noted that Assam has emerged as the fastest-growing State in the country while making significant strides in social development indicators.
During the interaction, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma emphasised that economic growth must translate into meaningful human development. He shared Meghalaya’s vision in the form of ‘Transformation Journey 2032’ which aims to realise the goal of a Viksit Meghalaya.
Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, highlighted the immense tourism potential of his State and shared its successful community-based tourism model driven by self-help groups and local communities. He noted that tourist footfall in Mizoram has increased manifold over the past four years.
Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio emphasised the importance of continuing the support provided through the 15th Finance Commission to sustain the State’s development momentum. He highlighted the potential for new infrastructure projects, expansion of economic activities, oil and gas exploration and strengthening the agriculture sector. Mr Rio also stressed the need for improved transport infrastructure and enhanced global market access for products such as Nagaland coffee.
Chief Minister of Manipur, Y. Khemchand Singh, highlighted the ongoing efforts associated with rehabilitation and resettlement measures in the State. He stressed the importance of robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure the timely implementation of reconstruction and housing initiatives, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts to support affected communities and restore normalcy.
Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, discussed the critical role of tourism, connectivity and digital infrastructure in driving the State’s development. He emphasised the need for commercially viable air connectivity and improved digital infrastructure to enhance accessibility and economic opportunities across the region.
Chief Minister of Tripura, Dr. Manik Saha, highlighted the State’s geographical constraints, extensive international border and skill gaps, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to accelerate economic growth and investment. He observed that trade and connectivity infrastructure, including integrated check posts, rail services and air connectivity, need to be enhanced.
