Northeast India

Northeast India, June 14: Northeast India, often referred to as the land of the “seven sisters” and one brother has long been a region that captivates with its unique cultures and dynamic people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognizing the immense potential of this region, has expressed that it is currently witnessing an unprecedented pace of progress.

From infrastructural developments to enhanced connectivity, the government has been actively unlocking the untapped potential of the Northeast. Over the past nine years, significant investments have been made to drive the development of this region, leading to positive transformations and a promising future for its residents.

Historical Background and Challenges

Northeast India, comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim, shares a narrow corridor known as the “Siliguri Corridor” that connects it to the rest of the country.

It shares 99 percent of its borders with Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, making it a geographically sensitive region. With over 160 Scheduled Tribes and around 400 distinct tribal and sub-tribal groups speaking approximately 175 languages, the region boasts an incredible diversity of cultures.

Additionally, large non-tribal populations reside in Assam and Tripura, adding to the region’s complexity.

Despite its cultural richness, the region has historically suffered from a lack of development and modernization. Successive governments since India’s independence failed to prioritize the Northeast’s growth, resulting in economic disparities, political frustrations, and a sense of alienation among its people. These grievances, coupled with the region’s sensitive demographics, provided fertile ground for extremism and violence to take root.

A Shift in Approach: Modi’s Vision for Northeast India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach to the Northeast region has marked a departure from the past. Instead of deploying security forces to quell conflicts, his vision has aimed at resolving differences and ushering in an era of peace and prosperity. Under his leadership, several peace accords have been signed, addressing long-standing disputes and creating opportunities for reconciliation.

Significant Peace Accords and their Impact

The signing of various peace accords in recent years has played a pivotal role in bringing stability to the region and promoting inclusivity. One notable accord is the Bodo Accord, signed in January 2020, which established the Bodoland Territorial Region within Assam, ending a five-decade-long Bodo autonomy movement.

Similarly, the Bru-Reang Agreement, signed in January 2020, resolved the 23-year-long Bru-Reang refugee crisis and facilitated the settlement of 37,000 displaced people. More recently, the Assam-Meghalaya Inter-State Boundary Agreement, signed in March 2022, put an end to violent clashes and brought boundary disputes between Assam and Meghalaya to a close.

These peace accords have not only resolved ideological conflicts but also encouraged a significant number of youth in the region to give up arms and embrace opportunities for a prosperous future.

Surrender agreements with various militant groups, such as the National Liberation Front of Tripura and Karbis, have resulted in the surrender of armed cadres and the dismantling of their camps. The government has also allocated special development packages to ensure inclusive development in the affected regions.

Reducing Disturbances and Promoting Prosperity

As a result of these peace accords and focused efforts, the number of areas classified as “disturbed” under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has substantially decreased.

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AFSPA has been entirely withdrawn from Tripura and Meghalaya, allowing these areas to transition into “aspirational” regions. Since 2014, there has been a remarkable 76 percent reduction in extremist incidents, while civilian and police casualties have dropped by 97 percent and 90 percent, respectively.

PM Modi’s Vision: Ensuring Northeast’s Progress and Prosperity

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Northeast India is experiencing a transformative era of change and economic upliftment. Over the past nine years, the government has delivered on its promise of inclusive development, where “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” (Collective Efforts, Inclusive Growth) has become the cornerstone of policy decisions. The region is no longer being left behind; instead, it is leading the country on the path to peace and prosperity.

The government’s commitment to the Northeast is evident through significant investments, infrastructure development, improved connectivity, and the successful resolution of long-standing conflicts.

Northeast India, with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic people, is currently witnessing an unprecedented pace of progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Through peace accords, the region has experienced a significant reduction in conflicts, resulting in improved security, stability, and economic opportunities.

The government’s focus on inclusive development and infrastructure enhancement has unlocked the immense potential of the Northeast, ensuring that it no longer remains on the periphery but becomes a beacon of growth for the entire country. As the region continues to embrace this era of change, it is poised to contribute significantly to India’s overall development and emerge as an exemplar of peace and prosperity.