Agartala, December 19, 2024: Agartala, the historical city of Tripura is abuzz with anticipation as the 72nd Plenary of the North Eastern Council (NEC) kicks off on December 20, 2024. This significant gathering, marking the council’s second plenary this year, is set to spotlight transformative developmental agendas for the North Eastern Region (NER).
The event begins with a Pre-Plenary Technical Session, a precursor to the main plenary, where central ministries will unveil their strategic blueprints for regional development. “This session is crucial as it sets the tone for collaborative and innovative approaches to addressing the region’s unique challenges,” said Angshuman Dey, Secretary of the NEC.
The main plenary on December 21, 2024, will be graced by Union Home Minister and NEC Chairman Amit Shah, alongside DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Minister of State Dr. Sukanta Majumdar. The gathering will witness participation from Governors, Chief Ministers, Chief Secretaries, and Planning Secretaries of all eight northeastern states, along with other senior officials.
Reflecting on Agartala’s selection as the venue, Dey emphasized, “Hosting the plenary in Agartala signifies our commitment to inclusive development. This city, with its rich history and growing importance, embodies the dynamic spirit of the region.” Historically, NEC plenaries have been predominantly held in Shillong and Guwahati, making Agartala’s inclusion a step toward equitable regional representation.
Highlighting the NEC’s evolution since its inception in 1971 and inauguration by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1972, Dey remarked, “The NEC has transitioned from an advisory body to a pivotal regional planning agency, steadfast in its mission to bridge developmental gaps and ensure parity with the rest of the nation.”
Over the decades, the NEC has achieved remarkable milestones, including the construction of over 11,500 kilometers of roads, advancements in power generation, and the establishment of key institutions like the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) and North Eastern Electrical Power Corporation (NEEPCO).
The council’s latest initiatives, including the PM-devINE scheme, align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming the NER into ‘Ashta Lakshmi’—a hub of cultural and economic prosperity. “The 72nd Plenary is a testament to our unwavering focus on harnessing the region’s immense potential and fostering sustainable growth,” Dey stated.
As the sessions unfold, the NEC’s role as a catalyst for regional progress takes center stage. The 72nd Plenary promises to be a defining moment, charting a path toward a brighter and more prosperous future for the North Eastern Region.