New Delhi: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton arrives for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) leaders' meeting at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. (Photo: IANS/Prem Nath Pandey)
Shillong, June 15 (IANS) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday said the Northeast is entering a transformative phase of development under the Centre’s Act East Policy and stressed the need for stronger collaboration between governments and investors to unlock the region’s full potential.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the North East India Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition (NEIINFRA) 2026 in Shillong, Rio said the region is witnessing unprecedented opportunities in connectivity, trade and infrastructure development.
The summit, hosted by the Meghalaya government at the Lariti Complex in New Shillong, has brought together policymakers, industry leaders, investors and representatives from all eight Northeastern states.
Expressing appreciation to the Meghalaya government for organising the event, Rio described the summit as an important platform for fostering cooperation among stakeholders and accelerating development initiatives across the region.
“The Northeast is entering a dynamic phase of transformation driven by the Act East Policy,” the Nagaland Chief Minister said, adding that sustained investments in infrastructure and connectivity would play a crucial role in integrating the region with national and international markets.
He noted that collaborative forums such as NEIINFRA are essential for bringing together governments, industry leaders and investors to translate development plans into tangible outcomes.
Rio said improved road, rail, air, and digital connectivity would strengthen economic integration among the Northeastern states while creating new opportunities in trade, tourism, logistics, and entrepreneurship.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the strategic location of the Northeast, which shares international borders with several countries and can emerge as a key gateway connecting India with Southeast Asia.
The two‑day summit features more than 1,500 delegates, over 60 exhibitors, multiple sectoral sessions and CEO roundtables focused on infrastructure, logistics, urban development, energy and investment promotion.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, senior officials from the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), industry representatives and policymakers attended the inaugural ceremony.
Rio said the Northeast has entered a period of growing stability and development and that sustained cooperation between the Centre and state governments would help transform the region into a major economic growth hub in the coming years.
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