Shillong, June 15: Political stability, improving connectivity and abundant natural resources are positioning the Northeast as India’s next major investment destination, leaders and policymakers said at the North East India Infrastructure Summit 2026 in Shillong on Monday.
Addressing the summit, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said infrastructure remains the foundation of economic growth, stressing that investments in roads, transport, power and communication are essential for attracting industries and creating jobs.
“Prosperity follows good roads,” Gadkari said, highlighting the Centre’s ongoing push to improve connectivity across the Northeast through major highway and transport projects.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the region is witnessing a shift in perception, with peace, political stability and sustained infrastructure investments creating new opportunities for businesses and investors.
“The Northeast is now daring to dream big. Earlier we believed we could not do it because we were in the Northeast. Today, we believe we can do it because we are the Northeast,” Sangma said.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said improved connectivity and policy reforms are helping unlock the state’s economic potential. He pointed to upcoming oil and gas exploration activities and highlighted opportunities in sectors such as food processing, tourism, organic farming, coffee cultivation and renewable energy.
The summit brought together government representatives, industry leaders and infrastructure developers to explore investment opportunities across the region, with discussions focusing on connectivity, industrial growth, logistics and sustainable development.
A common message emerged from the event: after decades of being viewed primarily through the lens of geography and connectivity challenges, the Northeast is increasingly positioning itself as a region ready for large-scale investment and economic expansion.
Also Read: Meghalaya set for ₹40,000-crore highway transformation: Conrad Sangma
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