Transformational decade under Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi sparks new energy in Northeast India: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s government’s transformative decade of governance, emphasizing its focus on good governance and developmental politics to revitalize Northeast India. He noted the region's substantial progress under the NDA government, including a 300% increase in budget allocation, significant infrastructure growth, and improved connectivity. Key achievements include a rise in national highways, a 370% boost in railway budget leading to 100% broad gauge electrification, and an increase in operational airports from 9 to 17. Welfare initiatives have delivered piped drinking water to over 7,000 villages, 39% growth in universities, and expanded 4G connectivity. Organic farming also saw a push, with over 1.55 lakh hectares cultivated, while ongoing projects include over 4,016 km of new roads. 

On waterways development, he outlined efforts to rejuvenate the Brahmaputra (National Waterway 2) under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, enhancing trade access for the Northeast and neighbouring countries. Infrastructure upgrades include the region’s first ship repair facility at Pandu Port and permanent RCC terminals at multiple locations. Riverine tourism is being promoted with initiatives like tourist jetties along the Brahmaputra, building on the success of the Ganga Vilas cruise. These initiatives collectively aim to position Northeast India as a growth engine for the nation's vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. 

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