The Northeastern region is transforming into a logistics and cultural gateway to Southeast Asia, driven by integrated check posts, border infrastructure, and multi-modal connectivity, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference, Sonowal highlighted the region’s growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing improved rail connectivity, world-class highways, airports, and waterways. “The Northeast has witnessed a historic reversal of decades of neglect,” he said.

The region is now a new engine driving India’s growth, with the Act East Policy propelling it to become a key player in Southeast Asia. Sonowal credited the prime minister for the transformation, saying Modi has placed faith, focus, and future in the hands of the people of the Northeast.

Major developments include completion of gauge conversion work, connecting Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Mizoram to the broad gauge network, and the inauguration of the India-Bangladesh Agartala-Akhaura rail link.

The region has seen significant upgrades, including over 11,000 kms of national and strategic highways, and a revolution in air connectivity, with 19 operational airports, including new greenfield airports at Pakyong and Hollongi.