Source: The Hindu
India’s Northeast is not a frontier region any more, it is the frontrunner of growth, said by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Inaugurating the Rising Northeast Summit, the Prime Minister said that the region offers a wide range of economic and industrial opportunities. India has ‘new dreams’ for the Northeast, adding that the region would emerge as a gateway for trade with Southeast Asia over the next decade.
India is termed as the most diverse nation in the world. But our Northeast is the most diverse part of our diverse nation. From trade to tradition, textile to tourism, Northeast’s diversity is a very big strength of the region.
He listed the bio-economy, bamboo, tea production, petroleum, sports and ecotourism as some of the areas where the region is an emerging hub. India is working on projects to directly connect Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos to India.
EAST does not mean just direction for us. It means Empower, Act, Strengthen and Transform.
Model Question:
“The integration of the North-East region with the rest of India remains a challenge despite numerous initiatives. Discuss the major challenges to integration and evaluate the steps taken by the Government to address them.”
Model Answer:
The North-East region, comprising eight states, is geopolitically significant and culturally diverse. Despite being an integral part of India, the region faces unique challenges in terms of integration, both physical and psychological.
Challenges to Integration:
- Geographical Isolation: Connected to the mainland by the narrow Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck), the region remains physically detached, affecting mobility and economic ties.
- Ethnic and Cultural Distinctiveness: Over 200 ethnic groups and languages lead to identity assertions, sometimes manifesting in demands for autonomy or secession.
- Insurgency and Armed Conflicts: Several states have witnessed armed movements (e.g., NSCN in Nagaland, ULFA in Assam), fueled by perceived alienation and underdevelopment.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor connectivity, electricity, and communication networks hinder integration with national economic circuits.
- Illegal Migration: Cross-border migration, especially from Bangladesh, has altered demographic balances, sparking ethnic tensions.
- Perceived Neglect: A historical sense of political and developmental neglect has bred mistrust towards the central government.
Government Initiatives:
- Act East Policy: Aims to make the region a gateway to Southeast Asia, enhancing connectivity and trade.
- North Eastern Region Vision Document 2020: Focuses on inclusive and sustainable development.
- Infrastructure Push: Projects like Bharatmala, UDAN, and Trans-Arunachal Highway aim to improve connectivity.
- DoNER Ministry & NEC: Dedicated institutions for targeted development of the region.
- Peace Accords and Autonomy: Agreements like the Bodo Accord (2020) and creation of Autonomous Councils have helped address grievances.
While the government has taken several steps to integrate the North-East region, lasting integration requires a multidimensional approach—addressing political aspirations, boosting infrastructure, preserving cultural identity, and ensuring inclusive development. Psychological integration, through education and dialogue, remains as important as physical connectivity.
