Over ₹6 lakh Cr invested in NE since 2014 to build connectivity, trade and tourism hub: Shekhawat

Shillong, Jun 16: Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said on Tuesday that “over ₹6 lakh crore has been invested in the region since 2014” as the Centre pushes to transform the Northeast into a major hub for connectivity, trade, tourism and investment.

Speaking at the concluding session of the North East India Infrastructure Summit & Exhibition 2026, Shekhawat said the investment covers highways, railways, airports, waterways, digital networks and energy projects.

He stressed that infrastructure development “goes beyond building roads and bridges, serving instead as a means to connect people with opportunities, services, and markets”.

The Minister highlighted the Northeast’s strategic role as “India’s gateway to Southeast Asia” and said investor interest along with the region’s “immense tourism potential” are rising on the back of this scale of spending.

Calling for sustainable growth, Shekhawat said development must focus on “balancing economic growth with environmental conservation and cultural preservation”.

He added that climate-resilient infrastructure and support for “youth and entrepreneurs to drive the region’s future prosperity” are central to the vision.

The NEIINFRA summit, hosted by the Government of Meghalaya and organized by the Federation of Industry & Commerce of North Eastern Region (FINER) with the Build India Foundation as co-organizer, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, investors and experts to deliberate on strategic priorities for the North Eastern Region.

The 3-day event concluded Tuesday after discussions on partnerships, investment and sustainable development across the region.

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