'Previous governments did not pay attention to Northeast region development,' says PM Modi at Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav

Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, celebrating the northeastern states' culture. He criticized past governments for neglecting the region due to its lower population, emphasizing his government's commitment with increased ministerial visits and development initiatives. Modi highlighted the northeast's growing importance in India's growth story, predicting it will become a major hub.

PM Modi at Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav (Picture credit: ANI) NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the past governments prioritised development based on vote counts, neglecting the northeast due to its lower population. He made the statement during the inauguration of Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav in New Delhi, a festival celebrating the culture of eight northeastern states . PM Modi said that the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government was the first to establish a dedicated ministry for the region and mandated that 20% of each ministry's budget be allocated for its development.

He stressed the growing importance of the northeast, predicting that cities like Guwahati and Shillong would emerge as major growth hubs. "For a long time, we have seen how development was weighed against votes. Northeastern states had fewer votes and seats, so previous governments did not pay attention to the development of the region," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister noted that Union ministers have made over 700 visits to the northeast in the past decade, reflecting the government's commitment to the region. He added that efforts are underway to bridge the gap between Delhi and the northeast. "In the last decade, we have seen a wonderful journey of the development of the northeast but it was not easy.

We have taken every possible step to connect the northeastern states with India's growth story," PM Modi said. The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, held at Bharat Mandapam from December 6-8, celebrates the culture and potential of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, and Sikkim. "Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav is a celebration of the better future of the northeast," the Prime Minister said.

PM Modi believes the 21st century belongs to the East, particularly India, and the northeast will play a key role in India's growth. He mentioned the region's progress in technology startups and education. Modi also pointed to increased investment, peace agreements, and reduced violence in the northeast.

He highlighted Sikkim's organic status and the region's agricultural strength. The festival aims to attract investment and promote the region's products globally through the ' One District One Product ' campaign. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India .

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