PM Modi sees northeast states as gateway to $200 billion trade with ASEAN
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India's trade with ASEAN countries, which currently stands at approximately $125 billion, is expected to exceed $200 billion in the coming years with the northeast states playing a key role as a strategic trade bridge and gateway to the southeast Asian markets.
Inaugurating the Rising North East Investors Summit here, he highlighted the importance of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which will provide direct access from Myanmar to Thailand, strengthening India's connectivity with Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos.
PM Modi underscored the government's efforts to expedite the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Project, which will link the Kolkata Port to Myanmar's Sittwe Port, providing a crucial trade route through Mizoram. He stated that this project will significantly reduce the travel distance between West Bengal and Mizoram, enhancing trade and industrial growth.
Highlighting the ongoing development of Guwahati, Imphal, and Agartala as Multi-Modal Logistics Hubs, the Prime Minister noted that the establishment of Land Custom Stations in Meghalaya and Mizoram is further expanding international trade opportunities. He emphasised that these advancements are positioning the northeast as a rising force in trade with Indo-Pacific nations, unlocking new avenues for investment and economic growth.
The Prime Minister further stated that the 'Heal in India' initiative is being developed as a worldwide movement. He highlighted the northeast's rich biodiversity, natural environment, and organic lifestyle, describing it as a perfect destination for wellness.
PM Modi urged investors to explore the northeast as a critical component of India's Heal in India mission, reaffirming that the region's climate and ecological diversity offer immense potential for wellness-driven industries.
The Prime also highlighted that the northeast is emerging as a key destination for two strategic sectors -- energy and semiconductors. The government's extensive investments in hydropower and solar power across all northeastern states, with several thousand crore rupees worth of projects already approved, he added.
The Prime Minister noted that beyond investment opportunities in plants and infrastructure, there is significant potential in manufacturing, including solar modules, cells, storage solutions, and research. He underscored the importance of maximising investment in these areas, stating that greater self-sufficiency today will reduce dependence on imports in the future.
PM Modi also underscored the growing role of Assam in strengthening India's semiconductor ecosystem. He announced that the first Made in India chip from a northeast-based semiconductor plant would soon be introduced, signalling a major milestone for the region. This development is unlocking opportunities for cutting-edge technology and solidifying the northeast's position in India's high-tech industrial growth, he added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hans India
an hour ago
- Hans India
PM's mantra to boost disaster-resilient infra
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday outlined five key global priorities for him to build disaster-resilient infrastructure, including a skilled workforce, a global digital repository to document best practices and innovative financing. In a video address to the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure 2025, Modi said strengthening early-warning systems and coordination is another crucial aspect. He noted that India has established a tsunami-warning system benefitting 29 countries and that it recognises the Small Island Developing States (SIDA) as large-ocean countries and the need for special attention to their vulnerabilities. With the event being hosted in Europe for the first time, Modi thanked French President Emmanuel Macron and extended his best wishes to him for the upcoming United Nations Oceans Conference. In his remarks, the prime minister noted that the conference's theme is "Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions" and underscored the vulnerability of coastal regions and islands to natural disasters and climate change. He cited recent disasters, including Cyclone Remal in India and Bangladesh, Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, Typhoon Yagi in Southeast Asia, Hurricane Helene in the United States, Typhoon Usagi in the Philippines and Cyclone Chido in parts of Africa. Modi emphasised that these disasters have caused significant damage to lives and property, reinforcing the need for resilient infrastructure and proactive disaster management. Recalling India's past experiences with devastating disasters, including the super-cyclone of 1999 and the tsunami of 2004, he highlighted how the country adapted and rebuilt with resilience, constructing cyclone shelters across vulnerable areas and contributing to the establishment of the tsunami-warning system benefitting 29 nations. Modi said disaster resilience requires innovative financing and called for the creation of actionable programmes to ensure that developing countries have access to the necessary funds. He highlighted the necessity of strengthening early-warning systems and coordination, noting their critical role in facilitating timely decision making and effective last-mile communication. The prime minister called for the construction of infrastructure that remains steadfast against time and tide, emphasising the need for resilience in development. He called for global efforts to build a strong and disaster-resilient future for the world.
News18
2 hours ago
- News18
Operation Sindoor, Global Respect, Waqf Reform: Modi Govt 3.0's Biggest Feats In 1 Year In Office
Last Updated: PM Modi's third term has brought a period of remarkable political dynamism, typified by decisive policy clarity, an undeniable rise in global stature, and firm political control As the Narendra Modi-led NDA government completes the first year of its third consecutive term, it reflects on a foundation of significant policy decisions and strategic initiatives. Modi took office as the Prime Minister for the third time on June 9, 2024, following another decisive victory in the Lok Sabha elections. The past year has witnessed a continued focus on transforming the country into Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and asserting its role on the global stage—from strategic military action and social welfare reforms to significant economic relief and proactive global diplomacy. A Bold Stride in National Security: Operation Sindoor One of the defining moments of the Modi government 3.0's first year has undoubtedly been Operation Sindoor. Launched on May 7, 2025, the precision strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were a direct response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, which claimed 26 lives. Lauded as a decisive military and non-military action, Operation Sindoor effectively neutralised terrorist threats and targeted terror infrastructure across the border, while leaving the Pakistani forces with a bloody nose. Beyond the kinetic action, Operation Sindoor showcased a multi-dimensional approach. India also implemented non-military measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty until Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism. The move, with its significant impact on Pakistan's water-dependent economy, underscores India's 'new normal" of zero tolerance in addressing terrorist acts. Prime Minister Modi frequently invoked the symbolism of 'sindoor" (vermilion), connecting the military action to Indian values and a pledge of justice, while highlighting India's indigenous defence capabilities. The operation's success has become a central theme in the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's narrative, marking the first anniversary of the third straight term in power. Global Diplomacy and 'Viksit Bharat' Vision The Modi government 3.0 has maintained a strong focus on diplomacy, aiming to solidify India's position as a leading international power and 'Voice of the Global South". India has surpassed Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy. NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam has said that India is now poised to displace Germany from the third rank in the next 2.5 to 3 years. India continues engaging with various global blocs and nations to further economic and social development, enhance national security, and elevate its global stature. Strengthening ties with major powers like the United States in defence cooperation, trade, and technology transfer remains a priority. India is deepening engagements with countries in the Indo-Pacific region through forums like the Quad. Emphasis remains on improving bilateral ties with South Asian neighbours and enhancing engagement with Southeast Asian nations. The government is actively pursuing foreign direct investment (FDI) by liberalising norms in sectors such as defence, railways, and insurance, and simplifying tax structures to attract global capital, aligning with the vision of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy. Reforming the Waqf Act: A Step Towards Uniformity and Transparency To improve the administration and management of Waqf properties in India, the Modi government 3.0 ensured the successful passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to address the longstanding issues within the Waqf Act of 1995. The move reflects both the government's long-term ideological agenda and its stated goals of reform and transparency. For years, there have been widespread allegations of mismanagement, encroachment, and corruption concerning Waqf properties across India. With over 870,000 Waqf properties, making the Waqf Board the third largest landowner in India after the Armed Forces and Indian Railways, the scale of potential mismanagement is immense. The government's primary stated objective with the amendment is to bring greater transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the administration of these vast assets. By introducing provisions for digitising records, ensuring regular audits, and streamlining the registration process, the government aims to curb illegal occupation and misuse of Waqf lands, which it claims have prevented the proper utilisation of funds for charitable purposes. A major change is the increased role of the central government and state officials in the management of Waqf properties. The law now empowers the district collector to conduct surveys of Waqf properties and determine ownership in cases of uncertainty, especially concerning government land claimed as Waqf. This shifts power from the Waqf Boards to a government-appointed officer. The central government now has more power to make rules regarding Waqf registration, accounts, and audits, allowing for greater oversight of financial matters. The amendment also significantly impacts the concept of 'Waqf by user", where properties were recognised as Waqf based on long-term usage for religious or charitable purposes, even without formal documentation. This remains a contentious point. One of the most debated aspects of the amendment is the change in the composition of the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. The amended Act mandates the inclusion of non-Muslim members in these bodies. Previously, all members (barring the union minister in charge of Waqf) were required to be Muslim. The government frames this as a move towards 'inclusivity" and greater transparency, arguing that Waqf properties serve a broader public purpose. The law also aims to ensure representation from different Muslim sects (Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Agakhani) and mandates the inclusion of at least two Muslim women members on the Boards, which the government highlights as a step towards 'social justice" and empowerment within the Muslim community. The amendments have sparked new legal challenges, with several Muslim organisations and opposition MPs moving the Supreme Court against the law. For the Modi government, the Waqf Act amendment aligns with its broader vision of promoting a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and reducing what it perceives as 'appeasement" policies. Empowering the Middle Class: Income Tax Relief and Social Security A cornerstone of the Modi government 3.0's agenda has been substantial relief for the middle class, a key demographic for the government. The union budget 2025-26 announced that no income tax will be payable on annual incomes up to Rs 12 lakh under the new tax regime. For salaried taxpayers, this limit extends to Rs 12.75 lakh, incorporating a standard deduction of Rs 75,000. This represents the largest increase in income tax exemption since 2005, significantly easing the financial burden on middle-income earners and encouraging consumption, savings, and investment. Beyond income tax, the government introduced several initiatives for the middle class and vulnerable sections. The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) now includes all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of income, providing health coverage of Rs 5 lakh per family per year. A unified pension scheme ensures a guaranteed pension of 50% of the average basic pay for government employees with 25 years of service. top videos View all The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) targets to construct millions of new houses, including a new scheme to assist weaker sections and middle-class families in achieving home ownership in urban areas. The limit for Mudra loans, which support small entrepreneurs, has been raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, empowering young people and small businesses. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : gdp Narendra Modi Operation Sindoor pakistan terror Waqf Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 08, 2025, 09:10 IST News india Operation Sindoor, Global Respect, Waqf Reform: Modi Govt 3.0's Biggest Feats In 1 Year In Office
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
2 hours ago
- First Post
Sankalp Se Siddhi: BJP's nationwide campaign to mark PM Modi's 11 years
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government completes 11 years in power, BJP is all set to launch an innovative outreach programme called 'Sankalp Se Siddhi.' Here's all you need to know about the initiative read more As Prime Minister Narendra Modi completes 11 years in power , his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is all set to launch a nationwide outreach program, highlighting the achievements of the Modi administration. The program, called 'Sankalp Se Siddhi' (From Commitment to Accomplishment), will mark 11 years of the Modi government and promote the government's achievements over the years. In light of this, the BJP would form committees for various events as part of the outreach. The programme aims to reach down to the grassroots, said the party's National President and Union Health Minister, Jagat Prakash Nadda , in one of the party circulars. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD To share information about the achievements of the BJP-led government, Nadda issued instructions for the formation of State Committees by May 29 and for District Teams by June 3. The committees will focus on organising events across the country and conducting presentations to showcase data related to specific achievements. From the success of Operation Sindoor to Ayushman Bharat, the BJP shares it all While speaking about the initiative in May, BJP national General Secretary, Arun Singh, sent out a circular in which he highlighted how the party will celebrate the 'strong and powerful Bharat with the historic success of Operation Sindoor .' Party functionary noted that India's military action under Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack will be a major part of the proposed pan-India outreach programme. BJP leaders will reach out with the message of India's 'befitting response to Pakistan' for masterminding the April 22 terror attack that claimed 26 lives and left several injured, the party functionary said in the memo sent to different state committees. 'Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated [that] the bravery and courage displayed by our forces during Operation Sindoor has made every Indian proud. The destruction caused to enemy terrorist camps across the border with great precision by our forces was mind-blowing. Operation Sindoor has globally given a new paradigm to the fight against terrorism,' the party stated in a communication to its state units. To commemorate the success of Ayushman Bharat Yojana , the BJP would also initiate registration camps for enrolling eligible beneficiaries under centrally sponsored schemes. The BJP will also organise the two-month plantation drives to commemorate World Environment Day, which falls around the same time. The party will also promote how India became the fourth-largest economy in the world under the BJP-led governments, realising the PM's vision of Viksit Bharat. In light of this, 'Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Sabhas' would also be organised as part of the outreach, where 'Vikasit Bharat Pledges' would be administered to those in attendance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The party will also celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21, and the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency will also be observed through special programs. Key aspect of the initiative: Engagement with youth, digital audiences, and professional groups One of the key aspects of the Sankalp Se Siddhi campaign is that the BJP would engage with youth and create digital awareness. The party will organise 'professional meets' in every district with three speakers, who will be professionals from specific fields. They will be tasked to showcase presentations on 3 subjects of governance. The party has also asked its state units to organise digital competitions for long and short videos and illustrative graphics, exhibitions, and distribute literature about the achievements of the government. Apart from this, 'Loktantra Senani' will be felicitated at the district level. The main aim of these initiatives is to attract the youth of the country and make them part of PM Modi's vision for a ' developed India .'
