Government sincere about development of northeast: PM Narendra Modi

SHILLONG: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday asserted that the central government is making sincere efforts to ensure the development of the northeastern region.

"India will grow when all its regions grow together. I see no reason why the northeast can't be developed," Modi said, speaking at the inauguration of the 65th Plenary Session of the North East Council (NEC) in Shillong.

"Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have been connected with rail link. Agartala and Tripura too have been connected through broad gauge line," Modi said, counting the development measures taken by his government for development of the northeast.

Modi said these measures have enhanced tourism in the region, and upgraded the opportunities for mountaineering and adventure tourism.

"Northeast is our gateway to Southeast Asia," he said, laying stress on the strategic importance of the region.

Modi also asserted the importance of skill development to boost employment opportunities in the region.