Photo Courtesy: nenow
Guwahati: Chief ministers from all eight northeastern states met with NITI Aayog officials on Friday to advocate for development policies tailored to the region's specific geographical and socio-economic needs. Chaired by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Lahiri, the high-level meeting focused on securing greater flexibility in central schemes to better accommodate the unique ecological and industrial priorities of the Northeast.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pointed to a recent tripartite agreement involving the Centre, Assam, and Nagaland as a blueprint for progress, stating that it serves as a “model of cooperative development.” He noted that Assam currently holds the title of the country's fastest-growing state while calling for balanced regional development strategies.
State leaders presented diverse growth agendas during the session. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio highlighted opportunities in oil exploration and coffee production, while Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the necessity of hydropower investment and skill training. Meghalaya’s Conrad K. Sangma shared his state’s 2032 transformation vision, and Tripura’s Manik Saha underscored the need for improved trade infrastructure to overcome the challenges posed by international borders.
Other regional priorities included tourism, digital connectivity, and agricultural support. Mizoram’s Lalduhoma requested further backing for the state’s Ginger Mission, and Sikkim’s Prem Singh Tamang called for the continuation of industrial incentives to drive local employment. Y. Khemchand Singh of Manipur focused on recovery and housing reconstruction. NITI Aayog officials committed to coordinating with central ministries to address these priorities and support the long-term growth of the region.
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