NITI Aayog recently engaged with the Chief Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura to address development priorities, innovations, and challenges in the Northeastern states. The discussions, led by NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Ashok Lahiri, involved senior officers from the respective states. Arunachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted the region’s transformation into a significant growth engine, emphasizing the need to enhance human resource skills, particularly in hydropower.
Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stressed the importance of balanced development to prevent regional disparities and ensure inclusive growth. He commended a recent tripartite agreement facilitating mineral oil operations in the Assam–Nagaland boundary areas as a model for cooperative development. Sarma also noted Assam’s rapid growth and advancements in social development, underlining the necessity of addressing regional needs for sustained progress.
Meghalaya’s Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma emphasized the translation of economic growth into meaningful human development, outlining the state’s ‘Transformation Journey 2032’ vision for a developed Meghalaya. Mizoram’s Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the state’s tourism potential and successful community-based tourism initiatives, advocating for more flexibility in centrally sponsored schemes to address eligibility challenges faced by Northeastern states.
Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio stressed the importance of continued support from the 15th Finance Commission to maintain the state’s development momentum, focusing on infrastructure projects, economic expansion, and agricultural sector strengthening. Manipur’s Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh emphasized ongoing rehabilitation efforts and the need for robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure timely reconstruction and housing initiatives.
Sikkim’s Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang discussed the role of tourism, connectivity, and digital infrastructure in driving the state’s development, calling for improved air connectivity and digital infrastructure to boost economic opportunities. Tripura’s Chief Minister Manik Saha highlighted the state’s challenges, including geographical constraints and skill gaps, underscoring the necessity for targeted interventions to accelerate economic growth and investment in sectors like bamboo, rubber, textiles, pharmaceuticals, sports, and tourism.
