NEW DELHI: Chief Ministers from all eight Northeastern states on Friday called for greater investment in infrastructure, tourism, connectivity and development-focused policies during a special meeting convened by NITI Aayog. The meeting, chaired by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Lahiri, brought together the Chief Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura, along with senior government officials, to discuss development priorities and challenges facing the region.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma used the platform to present the state’s Transformation Journey 2032 roadmap, stressing that economic growth must result in tangible improvements in human development and quality of life. Sangma also highlighted the role of externally aided projects in creating key infrastructure and accelerating development across Meghalaya. He further called for stronger collaboration among Northeastern states in trade, exports and environmental sustainability.
During the discussions, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted the state’s hydropower potential and showcased governance initiatives aimed at improving public service delivery. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stressed the need for balanced development across the region and cited the recent Centre-Assam-Nagaland agreement on oil and gas exploration as an example of cooperative growth.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma sought support for the state’s Ginger Mission and advocated greater flexibility in centrally sponsored schemes. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasised continued financial support and pointed to opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure, oil and gas exploration and exports.
Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh focused on rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in violence-affected areas, while Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang called for improved air connectivity, stronger digital infrastructure and continued industrial incentives.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha highlighted border-related challenges and sought greater support for connectivity, trade infrastructure and export-oriented sectors.
The meeting covered a broad range of issues, including agriculture, healthcare, education, tourism, economic growth, skill development and infrastructure expansion. Concluding the discussions, NITI Aayog officials assured the states that the institution would continue working with central ministries and departments to address regional challenges and support the Northeast’s long-term development goals.