Northeast India has undergone a remarkable infrastructure transformation over the past 11 years, with new roads, railways, airports, and digital networks driving economic integration and national connectivity under flagship schemes such as the Act East Policy and the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS).
From 2014 to 2024, the region has witnessed the construction of nearly 10,000 km of National Highways, built at a cost of over ₹1.07 lakh crore, vastly improving access to remote and border areas. In addition, more than 5,000 km of highway projects are under implementation, further enhancing connectivity across the northeastern states.
Air connectivity has also expanded rapidly. The region now boasts 10 new greenfield airports, significantly improving air travel in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Nagaland. Landmark infrastructure projects such as the Bogibeel Bridge and the under-construction Dhubri–Phulbari Bridge—set to become India’s longest—are transforming logistics and transport across the Brahmaputra river.
The Indian Railways made historic advances into Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram, with the latter receiving its first passenger train in independent India’s history. Rail connectivity has also been extended to Manipur and Nagaland, enhancing both passenger movement and freight capacity in the region.
Inland waterways have seen a revival through Ro-Ro ferry services on the Brahmaputra, providing cost-effective cargo transport options. At the same time, BharatNet and 4G saturation programmes have extended digital infrastructure to the remotest villages, bridging the digital divide.
Under NESIDS, the Government of India sanctioned 90 projects worth ₹3,417.68 crore between 2021–22 and 2024–25 to upgrade healthcare, education, drinking water, and public infrastructure. As of October 31, 2024, 30 of these projects had been completed, involving an outlay of ₹886.14 crore, according to PIB.
This sustained investment in infrastructure over the last 11 years has played a pivotal role in improving the quality of life, fostering regional development, and attracting private investment to the Northeast