Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the North East is central to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat, highlighting the region’s vast development potential and the importance of strengthening institutions and implementation capacity to unlock sustainable growth.
Speaking at a two-day conference on “Leveraging Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) in the North Eastern States,” organised by the Department of Economic Affairs, she stressed that collaboration between multilateral agencies, state governments and development partners is essential to enhance project effectiveness across the region.
Sitharaman noted that the North East holds significant opportunities in agriculture, tourism, culture and natural resources, but has historically faced challenges related to connectivity and market access. She highlighted unique regional products such as Meghalaya’s Lakadong turmeric and Khasi mandarin, calling for stronger integration of local producers with national and global markets.
She further said that externally aided projects are not merely financing tools but also channels for global expertise and best practices. According to her, funding support for the region has risen significantly from around ₹9,000 crore in 2004–2014 to nearly ₹76,000 crore since 2014.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma urged the Centre to reconsider or remove the ceiling on EAP funding, citing the need for greater financial flexibility for states capable of effective project implementation.
Earlier, Sitharaman also inaugurated a major organic spice processing plant in Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya, expected to benefit thousands of farmers and strengthen value addition in crops such as ginger, turmeric and black pepper.