PM Modi inaugurates new passenger trains for Northeast, says government sincere about development of region

Pic courtesy: @PIB_India

Shillong: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated new passenger trains for Northeast and asserted that the central government was making sincere efforts to ensure the development of the region.

He also lay the foundation stone for new football stadium in Shillong (Meghalaya).

"India will grow when all its regions grow together. I see no reason why the northeast can't be developed,” PM Modi said, speaking at the inauguration of the 65th Plenary Session of the North East Council (NEC) in Shillong. 

"We are committed to connect all Northeastern states with the railway network of the country. Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have been connected with rail link. Agartala and Tripura too have been connected through broad gauge line," he maintained, and added, "Broad gauge passenger trains will now connect Kamakya and Kashmir."

"Railway ministry will spend Rs 5,000 crore in Northeast," PM revealed.

PM Modi said these measures have enhanced tourism in the region, and upgraded the opportunities for mountaineering and adventure tourism. 

At the same time, he pointed out, "Eight apparel and garment centres have been set up at the cost of Rs 145 crore in Northeast. The development of waterways has been given a boost. We have declared 19 waterways as national waterways."

"I expect that no village in the country will be left without electricity by 2018. Government is implementing comprehensive telecom plan for Northeastern region at cost of Rs 5300 crore," PM Modi further said.

Spoke at length about development issues in the North east during the Northeastern Council Plenary meet in Shillong. https://t.co/jUGXr8cSBc

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2016

Emphasised on need to re-orient & upgrade the Northeastern Council & focus on areas like skill development, entrepreneurship & job creation

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2016

Centre’s focus on Northeast is manifested in our ‘Act East Policy.’ We want to particularly improve connectivity, infrastructure & tourism.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2016

I am particularly keen to see the Northeast shine in the organic farming sector. Northeast can become the organic food basket of India!

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2016

A special day for Northeast…Broad Gauge Passenger Trains will connect Manipur & Mizoram. Kamakhya & Vaishno Devi will be directly connected.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2016

Euphoric atmosphere at the public meeting in Shillong. Inaugurated key infrastructure that will benefit Northeast. https://t.co/NU3FxJkSSt

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2016

(With Agency inputs)