New Delhi, March 28: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated on Saturday that Northeast India serves as a gateway to the Global South, highlighting its immense potential as a strategic bridge for economic and cultural ties.
Speaking at the 15th edition of the annual cultural festival NETYAM 2026, organized by the Northeast Cell at Hindu College, University of Delhi, the minister emphasized the growing significance of this region in India’s development trajectory.
He referred to Northeast India as India’s ‘Ashtalakshmi’ and praised the festival as a platform showcasing the region’s cultural richness, talent, and energy.
Minister Scindia noted that his tenure as the Minister for Communication and Development in the Northeast over the past two years has deepened his understanding of the region’s capabilities. He asserted that it can act as a vital link between India, Southeast Asia, and the broader global landscape.
During his address, he highlighted the region’s strong human capital, pointing to a high literacy rate of nearly 93%, and stressed the role of youth in accelerating development across all sectors.
Reflecting on his personal connections to the Northeast, Jyotiraditya Scindia shared his experiences visiting all eight states and praised the region’s cultural heritage. He also paid tribute to renowned cultural figures like Bhupen Hazarika and Zubeen Garg.
The minister outlined government initiatives aimed at empowering youth and enhancing opportunities in the region. He mentioned the ‘Northeast Sparks’ program, implemented in collaboration with ISRO, which introduces 800 students annually to space science and advanced technologies.
The Ashtalakshmi Darshan program promotes cultural exchange between students from the Northeast and other parts of the country. Over 1,200 students have benefited from this initiative, with plans for expansion in the coming years.
He also announced the launch of the ‘Advancing NER Portal’ in April 2026, which will serve as a digital platform providing access to job opportunities, career paths, entrance exam information, and educational courses and institutions.
Minister Scindia stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the focus of development efforts in the Northeast has shifted from intentions to implementation, with a special emphasis on accessibility, inclusion, and opportunities.
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