Holding that infrastructure deficiency in the north-east is a "major concern", Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday announced linking of all state capitals there by rail to ensure better connectivity and earmarking of Rs 31,000 crores to improve roads.
Releasing 'Vision Document 2020 for the North-Eastern Region' in Delhi, he said besides developing rail and air connectivity, the government is also committed to improve road facilities in the Eleventh Plan.
"Infrastructure deficiency is a major concern in the region. We will link all the state capitals in the region by rail network and Rs 31,000 crore will be invested on roads during the 11th plan," Dr Singh said.
Describing the north-eastern region as the land of the rising sun for India, he said time has come "for the sun to shine brightly on it. Vision document defines the path to that bright future."
For improving air connectivity, he announced that a green-field airport will come up at Itanagar to connect the region with the rest of the country.
He said all villages on the Arunachal Pradesh border will soon be electrified at a cost of Rs 550 crore.
The Vision Document, approved by the north-east council, also lays stress on promoting education in the region.
"We are committed for inclusive and equitable growth. We will set up an IIT at Shillong," Dr Singh said.
Focussing on the farm sector in the north-east, the prime minister said, a second 'Green Revolution' specific to the region was needed.
