Shillong, June 15: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated the ‘Northeast India Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition’ in Meghalaya’s capital, Shillong, on Monday. He emphasized the urgent need for rapid infrastructure development in the Northeast region, stating that it will enhance connectivity, trade, tourism, and economic growth.
This two-day summit is being held on June 15 and 16 at the ‘Larity International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture.’ Policymakers, industry representatives, infrastructure experts, and other stakeholders from across the country are participating in the event. Discussions are focused on future projects and new opportunities in the Northeast.
Earlier in the day, Gadkari was welcomed at Umroi Airport by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Deputy Chief Minister Preston Tynsong. Both leaders later joined the inaugural session.
The event also saw the presence of Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, senior government officials, representatives from public sector agencies, private infrastructure companies, investors, and development partners.
During the summit, speakers highlighted that Northeast India serves as India’s gateway to Southeast Asia. Therefore, continuous investment in roads, national highways, logistics networks, urban infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital connectivity is essential.
The summit aims to be a significant platform for discussing existing and upcoming projects that enhance regional connectivity and facilitate the movement of people and goods across the eight states of Northeast India.
Industry representatives will also explore investment opportunities in sectors such as transportation, tourism, urban development, sustainable infrastructure, and smart technologies.
An exhibition accompanying the summit showcases various infrastructure projects, technological innovations, and development models relevant to the region.
In recent years, infrastructure development in Northeast India has received considerable attention, with substantial investments in national highways, bridges, airports, railway connectivity, and border trade corridors.
The central government has consistently emphasized that the Northeast region plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and improving connectivity with national and international markets.
The summit will conclude on Tuesday, featuring discussions on various topics, business meetings, and policy dialogues aimed at steering development through infrastructure in the Northeast.
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