Agartala, Dec 20, 2024, By Our Correspondent
The 72nd Plenary Session of the North Eastern Council (NEC) convened in Agartala on Saturday, bringing together Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Governors, Chief Ministers, and other top officials of the northeastern states. The high-profile gathering aimed to review ongoing infrastructure projects and discuss the roadmap for the development of the region’s eight states, including Sikkim.
This marks only the second time since 2008 that Agartala has hosted the plenary session, underscoring the city’s growing significance in regional planning and development.
A Vision for Northeast Growth
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, presiding over the session, emphasized the Narendra Modi government’s commitment to the rapid development of the Northeast, often referred to as ‘Ashta Lakshmi’—a symbol of immense potential and cultural richness.
NEC Secretary Angshuman Dey highlighted the council’s evolving role since its inception in 1971, transitioning from an advisory body to a key regional planning agency. “The NEC’s mission remains to accelerate socio-economic development, ensure parity with the rest of the country, and enhance connectivity and capacity-building initiatives,” Dey said.
The NEC, established in 1971 and inaugurated by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1972, now includes Sikkim in its mandate, reflecting its expanding role in fostering regional growth. Over the decades, the council has made significant contributions, including constructing over 11,500 km of roads, improving power generation, and enhancing airport infrastructure.
Key Initiatives and Developments
The plenary session also reviewed the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for the North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE), which aims to propel the region’s growth through targeted investments and infrastructure upgrades.
"The NEC has played a vital role in establishing foundational institutions such as the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) and the North Eastern Electrical Power Corporation (NEEPCO). These milestones showcase its enduring commitment to fostering economic and social progress," said an official release.
In addition to the plenary session, a pre-plenary technical session on Friday set the stage for detailed discussions. The meeting, chaired by Minister of State for DoNER Sukanta Majumdar, involved Chief Secretaries from all northeastern states, senior officials of the DoNER Ministry, and other stakeholders.
Union Home Minister’s Visit and Other Events
During his three-day visit to Tripura, Amit Shah also attended several key events. On Sunday, he is set to visit the Reang tribal settlement camps in Dhalai district and participate in the National Cooperative Conference at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala.
A separate review meeting of the North Eastern Space Application Centre (NESAC) will also be held on December 22. The meeting, which will be attended by Shah and ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, will focus on leveraging space technology for the region’s development.
Significance of Agartala as Host City
Historically, Shillong and Guwahati have been the primary venues for NEC meetings. However, the selection of Agartala reflects its growing importance as a hub for regional planning and development. Officials noted that hosting the plenary session in Tripura’s capital underscores the NEC’s commitment to ensuring balanced growth across all northeastern states.
“The choice of Agartala as the host city signifies a dynamic shift in the NEC’s approach, ensuring every corner of the region receives attention and support,” said an NEC official.
Looking Ahead
The NEC has consistently driven the pace of development in the Northeast, offering a platform for states to address shared challenges and craft policy solutions. With enhanced focus on connectivity, investment, and capacity building, the council remains a cornerstone of the region’s development strategy.
As the 72nd Plenary Session unfolds, stakeholders are optimistic about achieving milestones that will harness the Northeast’s vast potential and propel it toward a prosperous future.
“This plenary session is not just about reviewing progress but about charting a new path for unprecedented growth and development in the northeastern region,” said an NEC official.