Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proclaimed a significant turnaround for the Northeast region of India, stating that it is now at the forefront of various sectors. In an interview with The Assam Tribune ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections in 2024, PM Modi credited the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for transforming the Northeast from an “abandoned” region to an “abundant” one. According to him, the Northeast is no longer considered distant from Delhi or the heart of India.
PM Modi highlighted the efforts made in the past decade to end the region’s isolation and establish it as a gateway to the East. He mentioned that he has personally visited the Northeast nearly 70 times, surpassing the combined visits of all previous Prime Ministers. Union Ministers have also made over 680 visits to the region since 2015, bringing governance to the people’s doorstep.
The Prime Minister criticized previous Congress governments for neglecting the Northeast, stating that they viewed the region as distant and difficult to develop. However, PM Modi’s government has prioritized its progress and worked towards bridging the gap.
PM Modi proudly mentioned significant infrastructure projects that have improved connectivity, such as the Bogibeel Bridge, Bhupen Hazarika Setu, and Sela Tunnel. He also highlighted advancements in education, sports, and entrepreneurship in the region.
Regarding insurgency, PM Modi highlighted the signing of 11 peace agreements and the surrender of over 9,500 insurgents, significantly improving the security situation.
The Northeast states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim will vote in the Lok Sabha polls on April 19, 26, and May 7.