Northeast Emerging as Growth Engine Under PM Modi’s Ashtalakshmi Vision: Scindia

GG News Bureau
Agartala, 23rd Jan: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region and Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on Friday inaugurated and laid foundation stones for eight major development projects worth ₹365 crore in Tripura, aimed at boosting road connectivity, tourism, renewable energy and integrated development of tribal and interior regions.

Addressing the gathering, Scindia said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ashtalakshmi’ vision has transformed the Northeast from a geographical frontier into a key growth engine of India’s development story. He said under Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha’s leadership, Tripura is poised to emerge as a gateway to Southeast Asia.

₹270 Crore Projects Inaugurated to Boost Connectivity, Tourism
The Union Minister inaugurated five completed projects worth ₹270 crore, including the Jatanbari–Mandirghat via Tirthamukh road (13.775 km) and the upgradation of the K.A. Road from Erapar to Ambassa (28.90 km). These projects are expected to significantly improve access between villages, markets, schools and hospitals, while strengthening the local economy.

Another key project, the Gandachera–Raishyabari–Narikel Kunja road (8 km), will enhance connectivity for tribal settlements, linking them with district headquarters and essential services, thereby promoting social inclusion and better access to public facilities.

Tourism, Heritage and Clean Energy to Get Major Push
Scindia said improved connectivity between Amarpur (Fatik Sagar) and Chabimura will unlock Tripura’s rich heritage and tourism potential. The project is expected to increase tourist footfall to ancient rock carvings and natural heritage sites, creating new livelihood opportunities for local guides, artisans and families.

He also highlighted that under the PM-DevINE scheme, solar micro-grid projects will provide clean and reliable electricity to remote and difficult terrains, strengthening education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities in underserved areas.

₹95 Crore Foundation Stones Laid for New Projects
The Union Minister also laid foundation stones for three new projects worth ₹95 crore, including the Kowaifung (Panjirai) to Karbook road (9.10 km), Jampui (PMGSY point) to Kangrai road, and the Burighat to Sermun-II road. These projects are aimed at ensuring continuous connectivity to hilly and interior regions and integrating remote areas into the development mainstream.

‘Northeast Transformed Under PM Modi’s Leadership’
Scindia said that over the last 12 years, the Central government has invested more than ₹6.5 lakh crore in the Northeast. He noted that every central ministry is now mandatorily spending 10 per cent of its budget in the region, driving unprecedented infrastructure and economic growth.

Praising Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, Scindia said strong Centre-state coordination has enabled Tripura to set new benchmarks in social, economic and infrastructure development.

Later in the day, the Union Minister is scheduled to visit key development sites across the state. He will also offer prayers at the Mata Tripura Sundari Temple (Matabari), one of the country’s major Shakti Peethas, and review ongoing projects in areas including Unakoti and Dumbur.