Northeast India: Pioneering a Sustainable Energy Future
Advancing Towards a Greener Future
Guwahati, Oct 31: On Friday, Pralhad Joshi, the Union Minister for Consumer Affairs and New and Renewable Energy, emphasized that the Northeast is making significant strides towards a sustainable and energy-secure future, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of prosperity through eco-friendliness.
During the ‘Regional Workshop on Renewable Energy’ in Guwahati, Joshi referred to the Northeast, known as Ashtalakshmi for its eight vibrant states, as evolving into ‘Urja-Lakshmi’, symbolizing energy and progress, under PM Modi's leadership.
"Our Ashtalakshmi is becoming Urja-Lakshmi under PM Modi's guidance. We are dedicated to realizing his vision of sustainable prosperity,” the minister stated.
He praised the advancements made by the northeastern states in enhancing renewable energy capacity and reviewed key initiatives aimed at tapping into the region’s extensive potential in solar, small hydro, biomass, and green hydrogen.
The workshop also focused on practical measures to achieve energy self-sufficiency in the region while fostering environmentally friendly development.
While in Guwahati, Joshi paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary, recognizing him as the architect of India's unity and integrity. He expressed that Patel's vision continues to motivate future generations to promote unity.
Earlier, on October 26 in New Delhi, Joshi highlighted the remarkable transformation of the Northeast over the last decade, attributing it to PM Modi’s focused governance and dedicated initiatives.
"All northeastern states are now interconnected by rail, air, and road, with significant investments in tourism, industry, and skill development,” he remarked. “We are committed to creating an India where every citizen, region, and culture flourishes with equal opportunities.”
The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) reported an unprecedented expenditure of Rs 3,447.71 crore for FY 2024–25 on regional projects, marking a 74.4 percent increase from the previous year and over 200 percent growth in three years.
According to Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister for Communications and DoNER, improved review processes and digital oversight via the Poorvottar Vikas Setu portal have enhanced transparency and accountability, achieving 97 percent inspection coverage and 91 percent operationalization of completed projects.
The focus on renewable energy, infrastructure, and connectivity underscores the government’s broader objective of integrating the Northeast into India’s green growth narrative, positioning it as a center for sustainable development and clean energy innovation.
As the country accelerates its transition to renewable energy, the Northeast is poised to play a crucial role in India’s ambition to attain energy independence and environmental resilience by 2047.