By: Anirudh Goswami & Mrinal Talukdar
The North East region of India, often recognized for its strategic importance and rich resources, has historically faced challenges in securing adequate attention and resources for development. Despite its significance, the region has long been sidelined in national development efforts. However, recent years have marked a change in this trend, particularly with the advent of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. The Union Government has increasingly acknowledged the critical role of the North East, not just for its location but also for its abundant natural resources, unique cultural heritage, and valuable human capital.
To address the development needs of this region, the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for NorthEast (PM-DevINE) was introduced as part of the Union Budget for 2022-23. This initiative symbolizes a renewed and focused approach toward the North East, aiming to support infrastructure projects and socio-economic development specifically tailored to the region. The scheme, which started with an initial allocation of ₹1,500 crore and is set to reach ₹6,600 crore over four years, is fully financed by the central government, highlighting the priority given to this region’s advancement.
Impact of PM-DevINE in Assam: A Sectoral Overview
Education Sector
A significant component of PM-DevINE is its emphasis on education. A major project under this initiative is the transformation of 20 schools into Centers of Excellence in Kamrup District, with a budget of ₹132 crore. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the quality of education in Assam, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which focuses on inclusive and equitable education. However, progress has been slow, with only ₹7 crore spent by mid-2024, raising concerns about the project’s implementation efficiency. The choice of Kamrup, one of Assam’s most literate districts, as the project site has also sparked debate about whether the funds could have been more effectively utilized in areas with lower literacy rates. A more targeted approach to identifying educational gaps and allocating resources to underserved districts could potentially yield better results.
Health Sector
In the health sector, PM-DevINE aims to make a substantial impact with projects such as the construction of a new medical college in Sivasagar District, supported by a budget of ₹499.82 crore. This initiative is designed to enhance healthcare infrastructure and improve access to medical education, aligning with SDG 3, which promotes health and well-being for all. Yet, similar to the education sector, the progress has been limited, with no significant expenditure reported by mid-2024. Historically, health projects in Assam have suffered from delays and underfunding, and while PM-DevINE is ambitious, it faces similar challenges. Addressing these systemic issues is essential for the successful implementation of such health initiatives.
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure development forms the backbone of the PM-DevINE scheme, reflecting the broader strategy of the Union Government under the PM GatiShakti framework. In Assam, this includes projects like upgrading existing two-lane roads to four-lane roads with a budget of ₹271.45 crore, and developing the Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor in Guwahati, which has been allocated ₹498.37 crore. These initiatives are vital for overcoming the infrastructural deficits that have long hindered investment and economic growth in Assam. Unlike past efforts, which often lacked coherence, the current strategy under PM-DevINE is more integrated. However, the success of these projects will largely depend on the timely allocation and effective utilization of funds, as well as strong coordination between central and state governments.
Economic and Industrial Development
Economic and industrial development is another key area under PM-DevINE, with projects aimed at bolstering Assam’s industrial base and creating employment opportunities. The establishment of a Skill Development Centre at Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute in Guwahati, with a budget of ₹35.12 crore, exemplifies this focus. This initiative is designed to enhance the local workforce’s skills, in line with SDG 8, which promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth and productive employment. In the past, economic and industrial growth in Assam has been stymied by a lack of investment and infrastructure. The current approach under PM-DevINE, which includes developing industrial parks and incentive-based manufacturing facilities, represents a significant shift toward creating a more favorable environment for industrial expansion. However, the success of these initiatives requires not only financial investment but also supportive policies and effective ground-level implementation.
PM-DevINE Compared to Past Efforts
When compared to previous initiatives, PM-DevINE represents a more strategic and comprehensive approach to the development of Assam and the broader North East. Historically, development efforts in the region were often fragmented and poorly coordinated between central and state governments. Funding was typically lower, and projects frequently faced delays or were abandoned due to logistical challenges, inadequate infrastructure, and political instability. The current approach under PM-DevINE, with its focus on infrastructure, social development, and economic growth, reflects a deeper understanding of the region’s needs. The emphasis on central funding and alignment with national strategies like PM GatiShakti signals a more determined effort to integrate the North East into the country’s overall development narrative. However, challenges remain, particularly in project execution, fund utilization, and the need for better alignment with local needs. Transparency and accountability in managing these projects are crucial to their success.
The Union Government’s Vision for the North East
The Union Government’s vision for the North East, as articulated through PM-DevINE, recognizes the region’s strategic importance and its potential contribution to national development. This vision is rooted in the understanding that the North East, with its rich resources, cultural diversity, and strategic location, can play a pivotal role in India’s economic growth and geopolitical strategy. In Assam, this vision translates into a focus on infrastructure, industrial growth, and social development, with the goal of creating a more inclusive and sustainable development model. The emphasis on SDGs, particularly in education, health, and economic growth, reflects a commitment to addressing the longstanding challenges that have impeded the region’s progress. However, realizing this vision will require effective coordination between central and state governments, a greater focus on local needs, and sustained investment and policy support to ensure the long-term success of PM-DevINE.
Conclusion: Moving Forward for Assam and the North East
The PM-DevINE initiative marks a significant advancement in the Union Government’s efforts to meet the development needs of Assam and the broader North East region. By focusing on infrastructure, social development, and economic growth, the initiative has the potential to transform the region and more fully integrate it into the national development narrative. However, the initiative’s success will hinge on the effective implementation of projects, timely use of allocated funds, and alignment with local needs and priorities. Additionally, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in managing these projects is essential for sustaining the gains made under the initiative. While PM-DevINE represents a positive shift in the Union Government’s approach to the North East, its success will require ongoing effort, effective coordination, and a commitment to addressing the region’s unique challenges and opportunities. If these challenges are addressed, the initiative has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life in Assam and contribute to the overall development of the North East region.
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Anirudh Goswami is Founder, The BORBHAG Group. An expert in the public policy space who works closely with MNCs to build their strategic advocacy engagements from Washington D.C. to the Districts of India
Mrinal Talukdar is a journalist and author