NEC releases Rs 67.41 cr for Northeast development

The North Eastern Council (NEC) has released Rs 67.41 crore to support development initiatives across the Northeast, with significant projects in Meghalaya , in line with India’s Act East Policy , officials said.

The funds will be used for infrastructure development, livelihood generation, agricultural innovation, education, tourism promotion, research, and cultural preservation. These initiatives aim to accelerate inclusive regional development while improving connectivity, economic opportunities, and social infrastructure in the region.

In Meghalaya, key projects include the construction of a bridge over the Lunar River connecting Khaddum and Brichyrnot villages in East Jaintia Hills, aimed at enhancing rural connectivity and providing better access for local communities, including the Hmar community .

Another priority is the development of a cultural complex at Seng Khasi Ri Raid Laban in Shillong, a major place of worship. This project, supported under the Act East Policy , aims to preserve and promote Meghalaya’s indigenous cultural heritage while boosting tourism and cross-cultural engagement.

NEC is also supporting AI-based farming , which uses precision agriculture to monitor soil health in hilly terrains and predicts the best time for farmers to sell crops like ginger and turmeric, enhancing productivity and income.

In addition to state-specific allocations, the NEC released Rs 30.07 lakh to regional institutions and implementing agencies across the Northeast. These funds will support sustainable agriculture, entrepreneurship, sports facilities, tourism promotion, research, innovation, and livelihood enhancement.

Institutions such as IIT Guwahati , IIM Shillong , North East Space Applications Centre (NESAC) , and the North East Handicraft and Handloom Development Corporation (NEHHDC) are implementing these initiatives.

Beyond project funding, NEC is also sponsoring non-project activities such as international and regional conferences, skill development programmes, tourism workshops, cultural festivals, craft fairs, and youth exchange programmes to foster knowledge sharing, cultural preservation, and youth engagement.

These initiatives under the Act East Policy are expected to strengthen infrastructure, promote cultural identity, and expand socio-economic opportunities for communities across Meghalaya and the Northeast.