Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a transformative array of development projects worth Rs 11,000 crores in Guwahati, Assam on February 4. The event marked a significant step towards enhancing connectivity, sports, medical infrastructure, and tourism in the North East.
In his address, PM Modi highlighted the projects’ role in strengthening Assam’s connectivity within the North East and neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. The initiatives also promise to generate employment in the tourism sector and create opportunities for budding athletes. Moreover, a substantial expansion in the medical education and healthcare sector is expected, contributing to Assam’s growth.
A notable project unveiled is the Maa Kamakhya Divya Lok Pariyojana, aiming to facilitate easier access for devotees and increase footfall at the revered Maa Kamakhya temple. PM Modi emphasised that Assam is poised to become the gateway to tourism in the North East with a surge in pilgrims seeking Maa Kamakhya’s darshan.
Acknowledging the growth in educational institutions like IIT and IIM, PM Modi highlighted Assam’s shift towards becoming a hub for cancer treatment in the North East. The Prime Minister emphasised the government’s commitment to “Ease of Living,” citing initiatives such as housing for the poor, water and electricity connections, and toilets under Swachh Bharat.
PM Modi underlined the significance of tourism in the region, stating that even though the North East’s natural beauty existed previously, insufficient infrastructure hindered tourism growth. He credited the joint efforts of the central and state governments for substantial development in the past decade.
The Prime Minister stressed the government’s focus on infrastructure, committing Rs 11 lakh crore in the current year’s budget. He highlighted the Rooftop Solar Scheme, aiming to reduce electricity bills to zero for one crore families. Additionally, PM Modi pledged to create three crore Lakhpati Didis and highlighted opportunities for women in self-help groups.
PM Modi expressed his resolve to fulfil guarantees and cited the Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra as a testament to the government’s commitment. He commended the establishment of peace in previously troubled areas, stating that more than 10 major peace agreements have been signed.
The Prime Minister envisioned the North East’s development akin to East Asia, emphasising targets and objectives for comprehensive growth. The region is set to witness improved connectivity through road upgrades under the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation. PM Modi reaffirmed the government’s goal to make India the third-largest economy globally, with Assam and the North East playing a pivotal role.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Governor Gulab Chand Katarai, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for the North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE), the projects include the Maa Kamakhya Divya Pariyojana, road upgradation projects under the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation, and initiatives to boost sports infrastructure and medical facilities in the state. The developments aim to provide world-class amenities for pilgrims, enhance connectivity, and harness the region’s sports potential.
