New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called on the eight northeastern states to redefine their development priorities, stating that insurgency is no longer the region’s primary concern. Addressing the 73rd plenary session of the North Eastern Council, he urged state governments to focus on protecting citizens’ rights and improving welfare rather than concentrating predominantly on law and order issues.
Highlighting the transformation witnessed across the Northeast in recent years, Shah said the region has moved from decades of unrest to a period marked by peace, development, and expanding economic opportunities. He noted that the changing environment presents an opportunity for governments to concentrate on long term growth and institution building.
According to Shah, state administrations should adapt to the region’s evolving realities by investing in infrastructure and governance systems that will benefit future generations. He stressed that development efforts must now be directed towards strengthening public services, enhancing citizen welfare, and creating opportunities for sustainable progress.
During the meeting, the Home Minister said he had advised chief ministers to shift their focus from security related concerns to safeguarding the rights and interests of citizens, reflecting the improved security situation across the Northeast.
Shah also underscored the importance of preparing the region’s youth for emerging opportunities in the global digital economy. He urged states to make immediate investments in advanced technologies and skill development programmes, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. Strengthening capabilities in these sectors, he said, would help young people compete effectively in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
In addition to technology driven growth, Shah highlighted several sectors with significant potential for economic expansion in the Northeast. He encouraged states to promote industries linked to agarwood cultivation, foreign trade, and health tourism, describing them as promising avenues for generating employment and attracting investment.
The remarks signal a broader push to position the Northeast as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic development while ensuring that governance remains focused on the welfare and rights of its citizens.
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