Viksit Bharat: India @2047 by Aditya Pittie is a timely and meticulously researched work that provides a compelling blueprint for India’s transformation into a developed nation and global economic powerhouse by its 100th year of independence, achieving a projected economy exceeding $30 trillion. The book stands as an unparalleled resource for policymakers, business leaders, academia, and citizens passionate about India’s future.
EXCERPTS
Development of North East India
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, North East India has seen significant development and transformation. The Modi government has prioritised the region’s holistic growth, addressing its historical challenges related to infrastructure, connectivity, economic opportunities, and social integration. Here are the key aspects of this transformation:
1. Enhanced Connectivity
● Infrastructure Development: The region, known for its difficult terrain and lack of infrastructure, has witnessed substantial improvement in road, rail, and air connectivity. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana have accelerated the construction of rural roads, and the completion of national highways has linked remote areas more effectively.
● Railways and Airways Expansion: The introduction of new railway lines and the upgrading of existing ones have connected major towns and cities in the region to the rest of India. The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has made air travel more accessible, with several airports in the North East now offering regular flights, significantly boosting tourism and trade.
● Digital Connectivity: Recognising the importance of digital infrastructure, efforts have been made to enhance internet connectivity, including laying fibre optic cables and expanding mobile networks. This digital push has helped bridge the digital divide and opened up new economic opportunities for the region’s youth.
2. Boost to Economic Growth
● Act East Policy: The Modi government’s Act East Policy has positioned the North East as a gateway to Southeast Asia. By strengthening economic and trade links with neighbouring countries like Myanmar and Bangladesh, the region has become a focal point for regional commerce and development.
● Promoting Local Industries: The government has implemented various schemes to promote local industries, especially handicrafts, handlooms, organic farming, and agro-processing. The North Eastern Region Community Resource Management Project (NERCORMP) has been vital in enhancing sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.
● Tourism Development: With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, the region has been promoted as a tourism hub. The government has invested in eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism, thereby generating income and employment for local communities.
3. Social Development and Inclusion
● Health and Education: Several healthcare initiatives, including the Ayushman Bharat scheme, have been extended to the region, improving access to quality healthcare. Educational infrastructure has been strengthened with the establishment of new higher education institutions, including central universities, Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
● Empowerment of Tribal Communities: Tribal communities have received special attention, with initiatives aimed at preserving their cultural heritage, improving their socio-economic status, and providing them with new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
4. Security and Peace
● Peace Initiatives: The Modi government has made concerted efforts to restore peace and stability in the North East, which has historically faced challenges related to insurgency and ethnic conflicts. Through dialogue and development-oriented policies, several peace accords have been signed with insurgent groups, leading to a significant reduction in violence and fostering a more conducive environment for growth.
● Border Management: Strengthening border management and enhancing cooperation with neighbouring countries have been crucial for security and cross-border trade, further integrating the region with national and international markets.
5. Special Focus on Investment and Funding
● Financial Support: The government has provided substantial financial support for infrastructure and social projects. The North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) and the North East Road Sector Development Scheme have facilitated projects focusing on the region’s unique needs.
● Bamboo and Organic Farming: Recognising the region’s rich natural resources, particularly bamboo, the Modi government has initiated the National Bamboo Mission to promote bamboo cultivation, processing, and product development. Similarly, the promotion of organic farming aligns with the global demand for organic products, creating new income avenues for farmers.
6. Administrative Reforms and Policy Support
● Creation of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER): The Ministry of DoNER has been instrumental in coordinating efforts for the region’s development, ensuring that policies are tailored to the specific requirements of the North East.
● Regular Engagement: PM Modi has emphasised direct engagement with the region through regular visits by the Prime Minister and other central ministers, signalling the government’s commitment to the region’s progress.
Conclusion
The transformation and development of North East India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership have been marked by a multi-pronged approach focusing on connectivity, economic empowerment, social inclusion, and peace-building. The region, once considered isolated and underdeveloped, is now on a trajectory towards becoming a hub of economic activity and cultural integration. Through sustained policy support, investment, and an emphasis on peace and inclusivity, the North East is gradually realising its potential as a key player in India’s growth story.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aditya Pittie is an author and a policy thought leader. He leads the Pittie Enterprises Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in precision automotive and aerospace components, solar energy, fintech, and real estate. His family founded The Raja Bahadur Motilal Poona Mills Ltd., circa 1893.
Aditya is a University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) alumnus actively involved in nation-building efforts.
He regularly writes articles on policy in various publications and also co-authored Modi’s North East Story.
