May 22, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Northeast as central to India's prosperity, referring to it as “Ashta Lakshmi,” or the embodiment of eight forms of wealth
Modi stated that the Northeast, once viewed as a remote frontier, is now leading India’s growth and transformation agenda
He emphasised the government's "EAST" mantra: Empower, Act, Strengthen, and Transform – as the guiding principle for regional development
The Prime Minister noted that over 10,000 youth from the Northeast have renounced violence in the last decade, reflecting a shift toward peace and progress
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Northeast as a vital pillar of India’s prosperity during a landmark event focused on regional development. He described the region as “Ashta Lakshmi,” symbolising eight forms of wealth, and stressed its pivotal role in shaping the country’s future.
Calling India the most diverse nation in the world, Modi said the Northeast stood out as its most diverse region, citing its unique cultural richness, natural bounty, and economic potential. He identified key sectors that define the region’s identity and drive growth: tea production, petroleum, energy, sports, ecotourism, and skilled manpower.
Modi noted the region’s rapid transformation, stating that unprecedented progress is underway and that his government remains committed to accelerating its development. The two-day summit, inaugurated by the Prime Minister, is being attended by chief ministers of Northeastern states, union ministers, bureaucrats, diplomats, and business leaders, including Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani and Anil Agarwal.
Reframing how the region is perceived, he said that what was once seen as merely a frontier is now a frontrunner in India’s growth story. He also recalled a time when the Northeast was associated with violence and insurgency, but stressed that the region has seen a major turnaround, with over 10,000 youth having given up violence in the last decade.
He reiterated his government’s commitment to zero tolerance towards terrorism and Naxalism, a stance he said has enabled sustained peace and development. Modi also explained that for his administration, “EAST” stands for Empower, Act, Strengthen and Transform—values driving the Northeast’s resurgence.
Officials stated that the summit will include ministerial and business engagements, startup showcases, and exhibitions from state and central ministries. Focus sectors for investment promotion include tourism and hospitality, agro-food processing, textiles, handicrafts, healthcare, education, skill development, IT and IT-enabled services, logistics, energy, and sports.
Source: Economic Times