National
16 Jun, 2026
Centre invested Rs 6 lakh crore in NE since 2014: Union minister
Business To Business, Shillong, 16th June, 2026: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday said that the Centre has invested more than ₹6 lakh crore in the Northeast India since 2014, with a focus on improving connectivity, strengthening economic integration, promoting tourism, and attracting investment.
Speaking at the valedictory session of the North East India Infrastructure Summit & Exhibition 2026, Shekhawat highlighted the scale of infrastructure development undertaken across the region.
Areas of investment
According to the minister, the investments have covered:
- Highways and road networks.
- Railway infrastructure.
- Airports and aviation connectivity.
- Inland waterways.
- Digital and telecommunications networks.
- Power generation and transmission projects.
Shekhawat emphasized that infrastructure development is not limited to physical construction but plays a broader role in economic and social transformation.
He said such projects help:
- Connect people to markets.
- Improve access to public services.
- Generate employment opportunities.
- Facilitate trade and commerce.
- Enhance regional integration.
Focus on the Northeast
The Northeast has been a major focus area for infrastructure expansion in recent years, given its strategic location and historical connectivity challenges. Improved transport and digital infrastructure are intended to:
- Reduce travel times.
- Improve logistics efficiency.
- Encourage tourism.
- Support industrial and agricultural growth.
- Strengthen links with neighboring countries under India's regional connectivity initiatives.
The minister's remarks underscore the government's view that infrastructure investment is central to unlocking the economic potential of the Northeast. Enhanced connectivity is expected to support greater private-sector participation, attract new investments, and integrate the region more closely with national and international markets.
The summit brought together policymakers, industry representatives, and infrastructure stakeholders to discuss future development opportunities and investment prospects in the region.