New Delhi, Jan 31: President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday said the Centre is committed to sustainable development all the Northeastern states. “Government is committed to sustainable development of all the states of the North East (NE) – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura.
In these states, basic amenities and economic opportunities are being developed at every level,” Kovind said in his customary address to the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament on the first day of the Budget Session. On connectivity in the region, he said, “Rail and air connectivity are no longer a dream for the people of the NE, they are now able to experience them in reality.
It is a matter of pride for the country that these states are now being brought on the railway map with the efforts of the government.” Kovind also mentioned about the under construction Greenfield airport at Hollongi, near Itanagar, in Arunachal Pradesh besides new terminal dedicated to the public at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Tripura.
The development of NE will prove to be a ‘golden chapter’ in India’s growth story, he added. Referring to the statehood day celebrations of Meghalaya, Manipur and Tripura, Kovind said, “The journey of these states, coinciding with 75 years of independence, is inspiring us for new resolves for their development.” Citing that Centre’s efforts to establish peace in the NE have attained historic success, the President said, “This has ushered in a new chapter of peace and prosperity in the region.” He further said the number of Naxal affected districts in the country has also come down from 126 to 70 due to concerted efforts of the government.
