SHILLONG, June 19: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday laid the foundation stone for Externally Aided Projects worth Rs 1,246 crore in Meghalaya, asserting that these initiatives would transform the state’s natural advantages into jobs, income, and long-term economic growth.
The major projects include the Meghalaya Logistics and Connectivity Improvement Project (Rs 957.46 crore), Supporting Human Capital Development in Meghalaya Phase-II (Rs 59.29 crore), Integrated Ecotourism and Sustainable Agri-based Livelihood Development Project (Rs 138.39 crore), and the Meghalaya Ecotourism Infrastructure Development Project (Rs 91.60 crore). These span critical sectors such as road connectivity, logistics, tourism infrastructure, education, and livelihood development, aiming to strengthen economic linkages and improve quality of life across the state.
Addressing a gathering at the U Soso Tham Auditorium, Sitharaman highlighted the Northeast’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural resources, diverse agricultural produce, and hardworking people. She noted that the real challenge lies in translating this immense potential into tangible prosperity for local communities.
The Finance Minister paid tribute to celebrated poet U Soso Tham, whose writings celebrated the beauty, culture, and spirit of the hills. She emphasised that the region’s natural beauty and diversity remain its greatest treasure and a source of significant economic potential.
Sitharaman cited examples of the Northeast’s unique agricultural wealth — including Meghalaya’s Lakadong turmeric, Memang Narang, Khasi Mandarin, ginger, and Mizo chilli — which hold global appeal but require better market access, logistics, and value-addition.
She also highlighted the impressive infrastructure progress in the region, with over 10,000 km of National Highways built since 2014 and another 5,000 km under implementation, alongside a rise in operational airports from nine to sixteen. EAP support to Northeastern states has surged from around Rs 9,000 crore (2004–2014) to Rs 76,000 crore since 2014.
Describing EAPs as more than just financing tools, Sitharaman said they bring global knowledge, international best practices, and innovative technologies from institutions like the World Bank, ADB, IFAD, and JICA.
She concluded by saying that a developed India by 2047 cannot be realised without a developed, connected, and prosperous Northeast.
