Union Finance Minister inaugurates a suite of externally aided projects spanning roads, tourism, education and livelihoods — declaring the region no longer on the periphery of India’s growth story.
Shillong, June 19: Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday laid the foundation stone for a sweeping package of development projects worth ₹1,246 crore in Meghalaya under various Externally Aided Projects (EAPs), once again reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to accelerating growth and connectivity in the Northeast.
The event was attended by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, senior members of the State Cabinet, government officials, development partners, and other stakeholders.
The projects cover critical sectors such as road connectivity, logistics, tourism infrastructure, education, and livelihood development, and are expected to enhance economic opportunities and improve living standards across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Sitharaman underscored the growing importance of the Northeast in India’s development agenda.
“The Northeast is no longer on the periphery of India’s development story. It is being regarded as central to India’s growth, connectivity, and future prosperity,” she said.
Highlighting the region’s vast potential, the Union Minister said the focus must now be on translating natural advantages into sustainable prosperity through improved infrastructure, stronger connectivity, and targeted interventions. She noted that externally aided projects bring not only financial resources but also global expertise, innovative practices, and international development models.
“These projects are designed to transform natural advantages into jobs, income, and long-term economic growth,” she added.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, in his address, emphasized the transformative role of externally aided projects in Meghalaya’s development journey and sought to dispel misconceptions regarding their financing.
“Externally aided projects are among the most effective ways to fund large-scale infrastructure and socio-economic initiatives. Nearly 90 per cent of the loan component for such projects in the Northeast is borne by the Government of India, making them highly viable and beneficial for states like ours,” he said.
The Chief Minister revealed that Meghalaya is currently implementing externally aided projects worth more than ₹12,000 crore across sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, power, environmental conservation, and human development.
“The true measure of development is the impact it creates at the grassroots level, and today we are seeing thousands of beneficiaries whose lives are being transformed through these initiatives,” Sangma said.
He also thanked the Union Finance Minister for extending special support to Meghalaya by approving the Meghalaya Logistics and Connectivity Improvement Project beyond the prescribed ceiling.
“This support reflects the trust and commitment of the Government of India towards the development of Meghalaya and the Northeast,” he remarked.
Both leaders stressed the need for stronger implementation mechanisms, greater private sector participation, improved digital connectivity, and better convergence among projects to maximize developmental outcomes.
Sitharaman observed that infrastructure development must directly benefit local communities.
“While infrastructure forms the backbone of growth, we must ensure that its benefits reach every farmer, entrepreneur, and young person in the region,” she said.
Reiterating the Centre’s long-term vision, the Union Minister stated that India’s aspiration of becoming a developed nation by 2047 would be incomplete without a developed, connected, and prosperous Northeast.
Highlighting Meghalaya’s recent economic performance, Sangma noted that the state is among the fastest-growing economies in the country and said the government’s development strategy focuses on improving livelihoods, strengthening communities, and building long-term resilience.
The programme also witnessed the inauguration and foundation laying of major road corridors and tourism infrastructure projects, expected to boost regional connectivity, promote eco-tourism, and create employment opportunities.
The event reflected the continuing partnership between the Government of India and the Government of Meghalaya in advancing inclusive, sustainable, and high-impact development across the Northeast.
Among those present were Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, and Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Minister Sanbor Shullai.
