Gangtokian Web Desk: In a significant effort to enhance connectivity in the Northeastern region of India, the government has allocated a staggering amount of Rs. 81,941 crore to 19 railway infrastructure projects, covering a total distance of 1909 km. These projects are currently at various stages of implementation, with 482 km of rail lines already completed, according to official sources.
Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment
Union Minister for the Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region, G. Kishan Reddy, announced the government’s commitment to improving connectivity during a session at the Lok Sabha on Monday. The investments in railway infrastructure are expected to bring substantial benefits to the region, opening up new opportunities for economic growth and development.
Aviation in the Northeast is also set to undergo a transformation, with the Ministry of Civil Aviation taking steps to operationalize airports at Rupsi, Tezu, Tezpur, Pasighat, Jorhat, Lilabari, Shillong, Pakyong, Itanagar, and Dimapur under the UDAN scheme. This move aims to establish 64 routes in the region, significantly enhancing air connectivity for the Northeastern states.
Moreover, the government is making remarkable progress in 13 major infrastructure projects, valued at Rs. 1,543.70 crore, in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura. These initiatives will further strengthen the region’s infrastructure and promote economic growth and development.
Recognizing the importance of road connectivity, the government has undertaken 261 road projects through various agencies, with a total cost of Rs. 1,02,594 crore. Additionally, the Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region has sanctioned 77 road projects, valued at Rs. 3,372.58 crore, to improve the accessibility and efficiency of transportation networks in the region.
The North Eastern Council (NEC) has also joined hands in supporting the development of the Northeast by approving 51 projects worth Rs. 4,345.16 crore, further indicating the commitment of the authorities to uplift the region’s overall well-being.
These comprehensive initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on the Northeastern region’s economic growth and will improve the quality of life for its residents.
The Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance, has released funds to the Northeastern states under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2022-23 and 2023-24, which will play a crucial role in fueling the progress and development of the region.
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Releases to North-Eastern States during 2022-23 and 2023-24 (Rs. in crore)
| Sl. No. | States | BE 2022-23 | 2023-24 Amount Approved | Amount released |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arunachal Pradesh | 1564.10 | 1254.86 | |
| 2 | Assam | 4300.14 | 3128.00 | 1514.83 |
| 3 | Manipur | 467.22 | – | |
| 4 | Meghalaya | 1049.02 | 511.75 | |
| 5 | Mizoram | 297.50 | 399.24 | |
| 6 | Nagaland | 504.16 | 569.00 | |
| 7 | Sikkim | 551.36 | 387.62 | 258.43 |
| 8 | Tripura | 349.79 | – | |
| Total | 6250.47 | 1773.26 |
The investments in railway, aviation, and road connectivity are expected to bring new opportunities, prosperity, and better living conditions for the people of the Northeast, according to officials.
Gangtokian Web Team, 01/08/23