Union DoNER Minister, G. Kishan Reddy has said that the centre has ensured that development in the North East continues unabated and to achieve this end, several mega connectivity projects have been taken up in the region.
Reddy was addressing the 188th Raising Day ceremony of Assam Rifles in Shillong yesterday were he outlined the various achievements of the government in the region.
He said that in the past nine years over Rs 5 lakh crores have been spent to ensure that development in the region continues unabated and several mega connectivity projects such as 17 new airports, ongoing road projects worth Rs 1.05 lakh, and ongoing rail projects worth Rs 77,930 crores etc are being expedited in the North East to open up numerous opportunities of growth for the people.
Speaking about the contribution of the Assam Rifles the minister said that the force is rightly called the ‘Sentinels of North East’ and ‘Friends of the Hill People’ for dedication, passion and sacrifices made for security and stability in the region.
He said that Assam Rifles has an unparalled heritage of gallantry since 1835 and holds a distinction of having been bestowed the most number of gallantry awards. He further added that this unique distinction has been made possible through the supreme sacrifice of the brave hearts of the force in the line of duty.
He said that Assam Rifles has a major contribution in achieving this new paradigm for the North East Region. The new era of peace has enabled the country to realize the real potential of North East region, he added. “We can now confidently showcase our strengths in different sectors to the world community during the various G20 summits being held across North Eastern States,” he said.
Reddy lauded the efforts of the force during disaster management operations and for combating drug trafficking and smuggling of other contraband in the region.
He further exhorted the rifle women of the force and lauded their contributions not just in India but in peacekeeping forces across the world and becoming symbols of India’s Nari Shakti.
The Minister also said that over 8000 armed cadres surrendered and joined the mainstream and several peace accords have been signed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
