Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rising North East Investors Summit 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi today on May 23, 2025. In his address, PM Modi expressed pride and confidence in the future of the Northeast, calling it as a vital contributor to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation. He described the summit as a celebration of investment and transformation, applauding the presence of industry leaders and the collaborative efforts of central ministries and state governments in making the region investor-friendly.
Calling the Northeast the most diverse region of India’s diverse cultural landscape, the Prime Minister highlighted its richness in trade, tradition, textiles, and tourism. He emphasized the region’s unique position as a hub for eco-tourism, organic farming, bamboo and tea industries, and as a critical source of energy. Modi stated that the Northeast is a reflection of Ashtalakshmi, eight forms of prosperity and said every state is now signaling its readiness to lead India’s next phase of growth.
PM Modi underscored the Eastern region's role in achieving the dream of a "Viksit Bharat", stating that for the government, "EAST" stands for Empower, Act, Strengthen, and Transform. He reflected on the transformation the region has undergone in the past 11 years, noting that the change is not just in data but visible on the ground. With over 700 ministerial visits to the region, the Centre has tried to build deep emotional and infrastructural connectivity. Modi declared that the region, once seen as India's frontier, is now becoming a frontrunner in growth.
The Prime Minister detailed massive infrastructure investments, from the Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh to the Bhupen Hazarika Bridge in Assam, and the construction of 11,000 kilometers of highways, new railway lines, more airports, and digital networks. He also spotlighted the Northeast Gas Grid, which will provide consistent energy for industries. Emphasizing the importance of connectivity with Southeast Asia, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to key projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Project, both of which are set to boost trade and logistics.
Highlighting the emergence of Guwahati, Imphal, and Agartala as multi-modal logistics hubs, Modi emphasized the importance of new Land Custom Stations in Meghalaya and Mizoram for enhancing international trade. He envisioned the region as a bridge to the Indo-Pacific, opening up vast opportunities in global commerce.
On the wellness front, PM Modi promoted the Northeast as a key pillar of the “Heal in India” initiative. He encouraged stakeholders to tap into the region's natural biodiversity and organic living to create a globally appealing wellness destination. Citing the rise of tourism and local employment, he emphasized the Northeast’s potential as a center for eco-tourism, destination weddings, and cultural tourism.
Acknowledging the improved law and order situation, Modi credited peace agreements and developmental outreach for transforming the region. He proudly stated that over 10,000 youth have given up arms and embraced peace in the past decade. Highlighting schemes like MUDRA, he praised the rise of startups and digital innovation in the region, calling it India’s emerging digital gateway.
PM Modi emphasized education and skills as key drivers of change. He outlined how the government has invested Rs 21,000 crore in the sector, establishing over 800 new schools, medical colleges, IIITs, and skill development centers. India’s first sports university is also taking shape in the region under the Khelo India mission, fostering new talent in various fields.
With global demand for organic products on the rise, Modi spotlighted the Northeast’s role in making India a global food brand. From pineapples to turmeric, the region’s organic produce is gaining international recognition. He assured that infrastructure support like food parks, cold storage, and labs are being developed to support food processing industries. He also discussed the Oil Palm Mission and its potential to boost farmer income while reducing dependency on edible oil imports.
The energy and semiconductor sectors are poised to be game-changers for the Northeast. With thousands of crores invested in solar and hydropower projects, PM Modi revealed that India’s first semiconductor chip from a Northeast-based plant will soon be launched. This signals a giant leap for high-tech industry in the region, opening doors to cutting-edge manufacturing and research.
Calling the Rising Northeast Investors Summit more than just an event, PM Modi described it as a movement and a rallying cry for India’s inclusive development. He urged business leaders and policymakers to come together and transform the Ashtalakshmi vision into reality, affirming that the Northeast's rise is essential to India's future. With confidence in the region’s youth, resources, and resilience, the Prime Minister predicted that by the next summit, the Northeast—and India—will have taken another significant leap forward.
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries including Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia, governors, and chief ministers of all eight Northeastern states.
