Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, declared that the North East is not just a geographic region but a vibrant tapestry of cultures, traditions, and natural beauty that embodies the essence of India.
Delivering the keynote address at ‘The Conclave 2024’ organised by Pratidin Media Network in New Delhi yesterday, Dhankhar highlighted the transformative impact of the Central government’s ‘Act East Policy’.
“Put together New Zealand, Switzerland, and Scotland, and you will still fall short of the wealth of the North East. Each state in the region is a paradise for visitors, tourists, and locals alike,” he remarked.
The Vice-President also mentioned the region’s rich spiritual and natural heritage, mentioning the revered Kamakhya temple and the world-famous Kaziranga National Park.
“Where do you get blessings? Kamakhya. Where do you see a sanctuary of this kind? Kaziranga,” he said, underscoring the divine and ecological significance of the North East.
Dhankhar expressed his admiration for the vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, and the energy of the people of the North East.
“I cannot describe in words the kind of cultural fiesta I experienced there. The North East is the heart and soul of India,” he said.
Reflecting on his participation in the ASEAN summit in Phnom Penh where the significance of the Act East Policy was made clear, Dhankar emphasised that the Act East Policy will not be confined to the frontiers of the nation, but goes beyond India, fostering deeper connections with the Southeast Asian countries.
He pointed out the growing connectivity that will soon enable travel from the North East to Cambodia, where the iconic Angkor Wat temple is being restored through the efforts of the Government of India.
“This policy will be a game changer, fostering deeper cultural and economic ties with the region,” he said.
Dhankhar highlighted the potential of tourism to transform the North East economy, stating, “Tourism can change the entire landscape of the Northeast, driving exponential employment growth and positioning the region as a global tourist hub.”
Emphasising the media’s role in nation-building, Dhankhar urged the media to serve as ambassadors for the North East, promoting its tourism potential and developmental strides.
