Development of North East Region is priority of the Government: Dr Jitendra Singh

The Union Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, has said that the Government led by the Prime Minister  NarendraModi has given a lot of importance to the development and progress of the North Eastern Region (NER). He was addressing as the Chief Guest at the “North East Youth and Students Peace Assembly” organised on the occasion of the United Nations International Youth Day,here today. The function was organized by the Youth and Students for Peace-India, an initiative of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), and the North East MPs’ Forum.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that the focus has been on brining the rest of India closer to North east, as compared to the earlier focus of brining only North East India closer to the mainstream. This has helped in the integration and development of this region, he said. He said that the DoNER Ministry has taken various initiatives for the security of the students of NER who are studying in Delhi and other parts of the country. The Minister said that a hostel for the North Eastern girl students of Bangalore Universitywas inaugurated by the Prime Minister recently. He also said that the work for building a hostel for North East students in JNU has started. Another hostel in Rohini is also coming up for the students studying in institutions affiliated to Delhi University.

The DoNER Minister said that more than 70% of the population in India is below the age of 40 years. They have tremendous power and capacity that needs to be channelized, he added. This huge youth power has proved to be a decisive power, he added.He said that due to technology, now the prospects for the youth have changed and now youth from all backgrounds are making it to the prestigious exams. He encouraged the youth to utilise the untapped potential of north east by having the benefit of Venture funds for start-ups in NE region. The North East has become a favourite destination for all, he added. He said that NE has unexplored potential for tourism, handlooms, and other areas, which the youth should explore. The DoNER Minister said when Government gives impetus to the Act East policy, it will be the north east region that will be benefited, due to its proximity to these neighbouring countries. This will not only enrich NE, but will also enrich whole India, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh added that there is much more to learn from North east youth and they are leading in all spheres of life. Earlier the connectivity used to be a barrier for development, but now Government’s focus on rail, road and air connectivity has led to the physical proximity, which has in return broken the psychological barriers. The Minister said that Prime Minister has encouraged to give special focus to the North East region. During the first term of the Government, the Prime Minister has paid more than 30 visits to the NE region, the Minister added.

Earlier, addressing the gathering after inaugurating the function, MoS for Youth Affairs and Sports (I/C) and Minority Affairs,  KirenRijiju said that it is the role of every individual to contribute to the society and its well being. It is the responsibility of the whole society to work together, he emphasized. He said that participation of the youth is very important for the success of these initiatives. He added that it doesn't matter if we belong to different sections of society, we have to be united and strive for peace.  Rijiju said that India must start sending more volunteers to the United Nations and contribute much more to the initiatives of UN. He said that Prime Minister  NarendraModi has very focused attention towards youth development. Youth are the most crucial component of the society, the Minister said. The youth population is our most important asset and their energies should be utilised in right direction, he added.