Agartala:Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday declared that the Northeast has emerged as the new engine of India’s economic growth, with Tripura playing a pivotal role in the region’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Sonowal was in Agartala to participate in programmes marking 12 years of the Modi government at the Centre. During his visit, he attended a citizens’ interaction programme, inaugurated a development exhibition, joined the Pragati Path Yatra, reviewed construction of a high-rise government complex at Gurkhabasti, and planted a sapling under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
Addressing the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sammelan, Sonowal said the Modi government’s journey has been guided by the principles of “Vishwas, Vikas and Jan Kalyan”, making governance more transparent and citizen-centric.
He highlighted Tripura’s remarkable progress in road, rail and digital connectivity, and noted growing international recognition of the state’s renowned Queen pineapple, saying improved connectivity has opened global markets for Northeast farmers.
“Tripura is scripting a new chapter of growth. What once appeared difficult is now becoming a reality,” Sonowal said.
The Minister also emphasised the Centre’s commitment to Nari Shakti and Yuva Shakti, stating that women and youth are now key drivers of India’s development through entrepreneurship, skill development and startup support.
“The Northeast has moved from the margins to the mainstream and is now India’s gateway to Southeast Asia,” he added.