Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates New Terminal at Guwahati Airport, Signaling Growth for Northeast India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Integrated Terminal 2 at Guwahati Airport, marking a pivotal moment for Northeast India's aviation sector. He emphasized the terminal's role in enhancing connectivity and economic growth, framing it as essential for the region's development. Modi's address highlighted the importance of the Northeast in India's future, while also addressing historical neglect by previous governments. The new terminal, with a capacity of over 1.3 crore passengers annually, is set to position Guwahati as a key aviation hub. The Prime Minister's visit included a roadshow celebrating Assam's cultural diversity and plans for further infrastructure development in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 20, 2025, 17:51 IST

A New Era for Aviation in the Northeast

Guwahati, Dec 20: On Saturday, the Northeast entered a transformative phase in aviation with the launch of the Integrated Terminal 2 at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking to a large crowd gathered at the airport, Modi emphasized that this expansion is a vital step towards achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

He characterized the Northeast as a “central pillar” in the nation’s development, highlighting its potential to significantly contribute to India’s economic and connectivity goals.

The atmosphere was festive as Modi discussed enhanced connectivity and infrastructure-driven growth, along with the new opportunities this terminal will bring to Assam and its neighboring regions.

Beginning his speech in Assamese, he acknowledged the local culture and quoted a line from the famous song ‘Luitor Parore’ by Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, which resonated well with the audience.

Modi stated that the new terminal represents progress not only for Assam but for the entire Northeast, expressing gratitude for the support from the local populace and the nation.

“The development of the Northeast is now a necessity and a responsibility,” he remarked, noting that investments exceeding several lakh crore rupees have reshaped Assam’s infrastructure over the past 11 years.

PM Modi poses with the newly inaugurated statue of Gopinath Bordoloi, on Saturday. (Photo - @himantabiswa / X)

He also mentioned the previous classification of bamboo as a tree, which limited its use, and how recognizing it as grass has opened new avenues for sustainable livelihoods and construction, influencing the terminal's nature-themed design.

With a capacity to accommodate over 1.3 crore passengers annually, the terminal is set to elevate Guwahati’s status as one of India’s busiest airports and establish the city as the aviation hub of the Northeast and a gateway to Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.

In a pointed political critique, Modi accused the Congress party of historically neglecting Assam and the Northeast.

“There was a time when they questioned the need for advanced airports and railways in the region. We are rectifying the errors of those administrations,” he asserted, adding that he feels “at home” during his visits to the Northeast.

Modi highlighted governance improvements, noting that Assam has become a leader in installing over 50 lakh prepaid electricity meters and ensuring transparent recruitment processes.

“In the past, government jobs were associated with bribery. Today, countless youths are securing jobs without paying any bribes,” he stated.

Reflecting on cultural achievements, he recalled the Guinness World Record set by 11,000 artists performing Bihu together at a stadium in Guwahati last year. “Assam is setting records in culture, connectivity, and confidence,” he remarked.

Earlier, Modi paid homage to Assam’s first Chief Minister Gopinath Bordoloi, unveiling an 80-foot statue outside the airport complex.

He praised Bordoloi’s bravery in ensuring Assam remained part of India during Partition, despite pressures from within his party.

“The Congress and the Muslim League were working towards Partition, and Assam could have ended up in East Pakistan. Bordoloi stood firm,” Modi noted, adding that it was only under a BJP-led government that Bordoloi received the Bharat Ratna.

Addressing demographic and security issues, the Prime Minister stated that the current Assam government is taking strong actions against infiltration and radical elements, while accusing the Congress of defending such groups in courts. He urged the people of Assam to stay vigilant and uphold the legacy Bordoloi fought for.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu remarked that the new terminal would create opportunities for the youth of Assam. “Where airports are established, corporations arrive, tourism flourishes, and employment rises. Guwahati is among the busiest airports in the nation, and this terminal bolsters India’s rapidly expanding aviation sector,” he said.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the day as “a proud moment” for the state, stating that the airport is set to become one of the most beautiful in the world. He announced plans for an aero city covering 60 acres, which will include hotels, a convention center, MRO units, and a simulation center.

“We aim to inaugurate a third terminal by 2027, well ahead of the original target of 2032,” Sarma added, also mentioning the Adani Group’s proposed investment of Rs 1 lakh crore in Assam.

Following the inauguration, Modi participated in a 3.8-km roadshow through Guwahati, showcasing the vibrant ethnic diversity of Assam.

BJP leaders reported that over 50,000 people lined the route, with numerous artists performing traditional dances, music, and indigenous art forms on specially constructed platforms.

The Prime Minister is on a two-day visit to Assam, during which he is expected to launch projects worth approximately Rs 15,600 crore, reinforcing his message that a developed Assam will lead to a developed Bharat.