Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called on the Centre to raise borrowing and access limits for Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) in northeastern states to support rapid development and infrastructure investments. Speaking at a seminar in Shillong, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Sarma highlighted the importance of EAPs in addressing developmental challenges in the region. These projects have played a significant role in sectors like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and capacity building, contributing to the Northeast’s progress.
The seminar, attended by Chief Ministers, senior officials from northeastern states, and representatives of development agencies and the Government of India, focused on leveraging EAPs. Sarma emphasized that Assam has effectively utilized external funding to drive innovation and deliver tangible benefits to its people. The value of EAP-supported initiatives in Assam has seen a substantial increase, reaching nearly Rs 53,000 crore under the 15th Finance Commission.
Projects worth around Rs 53,000 crore are currently underway in Assam under the EAP framework, covering key areas such as healthcare infrastructure, bridges, power distribution, and advanced technology. Sarma advocated for broader access to such funding mechanisms, noting that multilateral agency-backed projects have enabled transformative initiatives that were previously financially challenging. He also highlighted the non-financial advantages of EAPs, including improved project management systems and governance practices.
Sarma expressed appreciation to Sitharaman for the discussions, aiming to enhance regional cooperation and position the Northeast as a significant contributor to India’s economic growth.
