Northeast is the ‘Ashtalakshmi’ of India: PM Modi

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 6th Dec. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, celebrating the rich heritage and future potential of India’s Northeast region. On the occasion, the Prime Minister unveiled a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to the event.

The Prime Minister began by paying homage to Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his Mahaparinirvana Divas and highlighted the inspiration drawn from India’s Constitution, which recently completed 75 years. He noted that the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav marks a significant milestone in showcasing the Northeast’s potential to the nation and the world.

Over the next three days, the festival will feature business agreements, cultural exhibitions, and showcases of the Northeast’s unique products, cuisines, and traditions. PM Modi termed the event as a “festival of a new dawn of development,” emphasizing its role in propelling the mission of a Viksit Bharat (developed India).

Northeast: India’s Ashtalakshmi

Drawing parallels with the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, PM Modi described the eight Northeastern states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim—as the “Ashtalakshmi” of India.

• Adi Lakshmi: Representing cultural heritage, he highlighted the region’s festivals like Meghalaya’s Cherry Blossom, Nagaland’s Hornbill, and Mizoram’s Chapchar Kut.
• Dhan Lakshmi: The Northeast’s wealth of natural resources, including minerals, oil, and biodiversity, was likened to this form.
• Dhanya Lakshmi: Known for organic farming, PM Modi praised Sikkim as India’s first fully organic state and highlighted the region’s agricultural contributions.
• Gaja Lakshmi: Northeast’s wildlife and scenic beauty, including Kaziranga and Manas National Parks, were celebrated as global tourist destinations.
• Santan Lakshmi: The Prime Minister applauded the creativity and craftsmanship of Northeastern artisans, citing products like Assam’s Muga silk and Nagaland’s Chakheshang shawls.
• Veer Lakshmi: The courage of Northeastern women, from the Nupi Lan movement to figures like Rani Gaidinliu, was praised for their historical and contemporary contributions.
• Jai Lakshmi: Northeast’s role in connecting India with South Asia and East Asia was emphasized as a gateway to trade and cultural opportunities.
• Vidya Lakshmi: Highlighting the region’s educational achievements, PM Modi mentioned institutions like IIT Guwahati and IIM Shillong, as well as its contributions to sports and technology.

Focus on Development and Connectivity

PM Modi underscored the government’s commitment to Northeast development, highlighting:

• Investment: Over Rs 5 lakh crore has been allocated to the region in the last decade under various schemes, including PM-DevINE and the North East Venture Fund.
• Infrastructure: Projects like the Sela Tunnel, the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, and the expansion of national highways have boosted road connectivity. Rail links to all state capitals are nearing completion, with the region’s first Vande Bharat train already operational.
• Airports: The number of airports and flights in the Northeast has nearly doubled in ten years.
• Waterways: Development of the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers is improving regional water transport.
• Technology: The government’s push for industries like semiconductors is attracting global investors to the region.

Connecting Emotion, Economy, and Ecology

PM Modi emphasized the government’s approach to integrating the Northeast with the rest of India through “emotion, economy, and ecology.” He noted that over 700 ministerial visits to the region have fostered a deeper connection and trust.

The Prime Minister concluded by envisioning a brighter future for the Northeast, positioning it as a critical driver of India’s growth in the 21st century. He remarked, “The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav is a celebration of the Northeast’s brighter future and the mission of Viksit Bharat.”