Anushka Singh narrates how Northeast has suffered marginalisation and geographical isolation, grappling with problems ranging from insurgency to lack of development. She explains how its amalgamation into the India’s mainstream fabric is multifaceted, encompassing infrastructure development, connectivity enhancement, economic revitalisation, cultural integration and security strengthening.
Over the span of the last decade, the Northeast region of India has undergone a remarkable transformation, witnessing a profound evolution in its assimilation within the nation’s fabric. Long characterised by marginalisation and geographical isolation, the Northeast has grappled with a myriad of challenges ranging from insurgency to lack of development. Yet, in a concerted effort led by successive central administrations, notably under the stewardship of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), strides have been made to narrow the divide and bring the region closer to the nation in a true fashion.
The process of integrating the Northeast within the broader framework of India has been multifaceted, encompassing infrastructure development, connectivity enhancement, economic revitalisation, cultural amalgamation and security strengthening. Among the important endeavours undertaken, focus has been directed towards enhancing connectivity through an array of infrastructural projects spanning roads, bridges, railways and air travel networks.
Enhancing connectivity
A crowning achievement in this regard was the inauguration of the Bogibeel Bridge in Assam, a monumental feat symbolising the government’s unwavering dedication to increasing connectivity across the region and increasing accessibility. The bridge connects the south bank of the Brahmaputra River in Dibrugarh in Assam to Dhemaji’s Silapathar that borders Arunachal Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the bridge, heralded as Asia’s second longest and India’s longest rail-cum-road bridge, on the birth anniversary of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2018.
The economic initiatives aimed at promoting investment and development in the Northeast too have been multidimensional and include various measures to spur economic growth and employment opportunities in the region. These have been prioritised to address the historical underdevelopment and geographical isolation of the Northeast. The launch of the ‘Act East Policy’ by the BJP-led government has emphasised the region’s strategic importance in enhancing India’s engagement with strategic partners especially the South-East Asian countries.
Boosting development
The Northeast Industrial Policy 2017 provides incentives for businesses to invest in the Northeast, including tax breaks, subsidies and land grants for businesses that set up operations in the region. This policy aims to attract investment and promote industrial development in the Northeast, thereby contributing to economic growth and employment generation.
The North-East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS), 2017 is helping promote industrialisation and increase employment by covering manufacturing and service sector industrial units in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. It offers incentives such as reimbursement of the central share of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and income tax benefits to industries in the Northeast, which are designed to attract industries and promote economic development in the region.
The Northeast Special Category States (NECS) Scheme provides financial assistance to the eight states in the region, including funding for infrastructure, education, health, and other sectors. The government has prioritised infrastructure development in the Northeast to enhance connectivity and promote economic growth. This includes the construction of vital infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and railways, as well as the launch of the Northeast Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESSID) to fund infrastructure projects in the region.
Cross-Border economic zone
To boost new regional economic cooperation and synergy, the development of a cross-border economic zone with neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh and Myanmar has been set in motion. This innovative initiative is poised to transcend borders and form a conducive environment for trade and investment in the Northeast, opening up avenues for mutually-beneficial collaboration and economic growth.
Envisioned as a nexus of economic activity, the cross-border economic zone holds the promise of unlocking the untapped economic potential of the Northeast. By facilitating seamless cross-border trade and investment, it aims to create a dynamic ecosystem conducive to industrial development and economic prosperity. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative ventures with neighbouring nations, the economic zone seeks to harness synergies and capitalise on shared resources, further amplifying the region’s economic prowess.
These far-reaching economic initiatives are not merely confined to bolstering industrial growth but are also geared towards fostering inclusive development and regional economic integration. By promoting economic growth and generating employment opportunities, they serve as catalysts for uplifting the socio-economic landscape of the Northeast.
Moreover, the establishment of the cross-border economic zone underscores India’s broader vision of nurturing robust regional economic cooperation. By forging closer economic ties and promoting cross-border trade and investment, it aligns with the overarching goal of a more integrated and prosperous South-Asian region.
Cultural integration
Cultural integration has been another focal point, with efforts to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast and greater interaction between the region’s people and the rest of the country. Initiatives such as the Northeast Festival and cultural exchange programmes have played a significant role in furthering a sense of belonging and unity among the diverse communities of the region.
The security situation in India’s Northeast has been a longstanding concern. However, significant efforts have been made to address these challenges and restore peace and stability in the region and mitigate internal conflicts for a more secure environment.
Enhanced security measures along the India-Myanmar border have also been instrumental in curbing cross-border activities and ensuring the safety of the region. The porous nature of the border and historical factors have made it susceptible to infiltration and illicit markets, posing significant security challenges. The government has been taking steps to address these and strengthen border security to prevent unauthorised cross-border movements and activities.
The multipronged approach to addressing security concerns in the Northeast includes not only military and law enforcement measures but also initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of unrest and promoting development.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has been actively involved in addressing the genuine demands of various ethnic groups and the approach encompasses a willingness to engage in dialogue with them and seek resolution of their demands within the framework of the Indian Constitution.
The overall security situation in the Northeast has shown tremendous improvement. However, it is important to continue addressing the remaining security challenges to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region. The government’s efforts to strengthen security, engage in dialogue, and promote development are crucial in addressing the complex security dynamics of the Northeast and ensuring a more secure and peaceful environment for its people.
Political implications
The BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has made significant inroads in the region, securing electoral victories in states like Assam, Manipur and Tripura. The party’s emphasis on development, infrastructure, and connectivity has resonated with the aspirations of the people of the Northeast, leading to a notable shift in political dynamics in the region.
Looking ahead to the 2024 General Elections, the strides made by the ruling party in integrating the region within India and addressing long-standing issues have garnered support for the BJP among the people of the Northeast. The party’s track record of development and governance in the region is likely to bolster its electoral prospects, with the BJP aiming to consolidate its gains and expand its footprint in the Northeast region.
The inclusion of the Northeast within India over the last decade has been a transformative process, marked by significant achievements in infrastructure, economy, security, and cultural integration. As the 2024 General Elections approach, the BJP’s performance in the Northeast is poised to be a key determinant in the party’s overall electoral fortunes.