Government Boosts Northeast as Strategic Gateway Under 'Act East Policy'

President Droupadi Murmu announced that the government has significantly increased the allocation for Northeast development, making it a strategic gateway under the 'Act East Policy.' Initiatives include inland waterways, a semiconductor plant, and efforts toward peace and connectivity across various sectors.

The government is focusing on transforming the northeast into a strategic gateway as part of its 'Act East Policy,' according to a statement by President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday.

During a joint session with both Houses of Parliament, Murmu highlighted that the development allocation for the region has quadrupled over the past decade. She noted that inland waterways development is underway on a large scale for the first time and is expected to deliver significant benefits to the region.

'My government has increased the allocation for the development of the northeast region by more than four times over the last 10 years. The government is working to make this region a strategic gateway under its Act East Policy,' she stated.

The 'Act East Policy' aims to foster economic cooperation, cultural ties, and strategic relationships with Indo-Pacific countries, particularly ASEAN nations. These initiatives are being carried out through bilateral, regional, and multilateral engagements to enhance connectivity comprehensively, including political, economic, and cultural relationships.

Murmu emphasized that connectivity is being expanded across all sectors in the northeast, including education, health, tourism, and employment. She revealed plans for a semiconductor plant in Assam, costing Rs 27,000 crore, positioning the region as a future hub for Made in India chips.

Addressing past disturbances, Murmu said the central government is tirelessly working towards lasting peace. Many longstanding disputes have been resolved, and significant agreements have been reached over the past decade.

'The effort to withdraw the AFSPA from disturbed areas of the northeast is proceeding in phases by accelerating development in these regions,' she added.