Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday chaired the third virtual meeting of the High-Level Task Force on the North East Economic Corridor, which reviewed the progress of ongoing infrastructure projects and regional connectivity plans aimed at transforming the Northeast into a key trade and transport hub.
According to officials, Planning Department Secretary Lalmalsawma Pachuau gave a detailed presentation on the discussions held in earlier meetings and the progress achieved so far. The session focused on expanding transport corridors linking Bangladesh and India’s northeastern states, enhancing the India–Myanmar–Thailand highway network, and strengthening Guwahati’s role as a central hub for movement across the region.
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Focus on connectivity and cross-border links
Examining the suggested corridors that would enhance connectivity between Bangladesh and the Northeast was the task force's primary objective. Through the use of contemporary road, rail, and waterway networks, the project aimed to increase trade and interpersonal interactions.
Strengthening the India–Myanmar–Thailand trilateral corridor was also discussed as part of India’s Act East Policy. Officials said the goal is to ensure seamless connectivity from Mizoram, Manipur, and Assam to Southeast Asian markets.
Improved helicopter links between northeastern state capitals, development of inland waterways, and the possibility of introducing electric train services were also discussed to make regional transport more affordable and efficient.
A senior official from the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) currently covers 6,829 track kilometres across the region, and several new lines are being laid to connect previously unlinked state capitals like Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh. “Once completed, these links will open new economic routes and help integrate the Northeast more closely with the national supply chain,” the official said.
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Infrastructural and regional development
The meeting also addressed the ways to upgrade border trade infrastructure, particularly at the India–Bangladesh and India–Myanmar borders. Discussions about the modern facilities for customs clearance, warehousing, and logistics were also made for smoother cross-border trade.
Improving internet connectivity and ensuring reliable digital access across the hilly and remote areas of the Northeast was another major area of discussion.
The task force also talked about promoting local products and handicrafts from the region through stronger branding and marketing initiatives. Participants emphasised that with the right packaging and visibility, the Northeast’s unique products starting from bamboo crafts to organic spices and handwoven textiles can find a wider audience across India and abroad.
The meeting was attended by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and ministers from several northeastern states. Participants agreed to finalise the Task Force’s comprehensive report soon, outlining both immediate and long-term priorities.
The DoNER Ministry had formed a series of high-level task forces following the 72nd plenary session of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala last year, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. These task forces were created to frame actionable plans for integrated development in sectors like transport, agriculture, tourism, and trade.
Alongside the corridor meeting, two other task forces, one on Agri-Horticulture Development and another on Tourism, also met on Monday, with Chief Ministers, ministers, and senior officials from all eight northeastern states in attendance. Minister Scindia participated in all three sessions.
What's the plan ahead?
Officials said the North East Economic Corridor is expected to serve as the backbone of connectivity and commerce in the region. Once complete, it will link the Northeast with Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand, positioning the area as a vital link in India’s trade network under the Act East Policy.
For Mizoram and other northeastern states, the initiative is being viewed as a long-term investment in infrastructure, employment, and regional stability, one that could finally bring the economic transformation the region has long awaited.
