Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday said the northeastern region has emerged as a global example of sustainable and inclusive development, highlighting major infrastructure achievements and improvements in connectivity.
In a post on X, Sitharaman said the region, often referred to as “Ashta Lakshmi”, has secured a place on the global map.
“Ashta Lakshmi is firmly on the global map — from the world’s first 100 per cent organic state to the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel and the tallest girder rail bridge,” she wrote.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the eight northeastern states, which were once considered distant from the mainstream of development, are now playing an increasingly important role in the country’s growth story.
“Today, they are emerging as India’s growth engine, brimming with prosperity, strength, and possibilities,” Goyal said in a post on X.
The Northeast region is now home to global landmarks – from the world’s first 100% Organic State to the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel and the tallest girder rail bridge.
— Nirmala Sitharaman Office (@nsitharamanoffc) June 20, 2026
'Ashta Lakshmi' is firmly on the global map.
#12YearsOfRisingNorthEast pic.twitter.com/iSrqiiRztM
According to an official fact sheet, the region has undergone significant transformation over the past 12 years through infrastructure expansion, policy support and development initiatives. Improvements in road, rail, air and digital connectivity have reduced geographic isolation and enhanced access to markets and services.
The report also highlighted gains in access to drinking water, sanitation, housing, healthcare and education across both urban and rural areas.
It noted that the Northeast has become an important part of India’s clean energy transition and Act East policy, supported by investments in hydropower projects, gas infrastructure and cross-border connectivity initiatives.
Officials said the development approach in the region has focused on balancing economic growth with ecological sensitivity, resource efficiency and long-term sustainability. The Northeast is increasingly being positioned as a gateway for economic opportunity and regional engagement, with improved connectivity and resilience supporting future growth.
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