Northeast’s Identity Now Tied to Economic Growth, Says Vice President
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan stated on Saturday that the Northeast is no longer defined by its geographical remoteness but by the expanding economic opportunities emerging across the region. He made these remarks while addressing the 20th convocation ceremony of Mizoram University in Aizawl.
A Decade of Transformation in the Region
Speaking at the event, Radhakrishnan highlighted how the development narrative of the Northeast has shifted significantly over the past ten years. He credited the central government’s Act East Policy as a key driver behind this change, noting that the region is now increasingly viewed as a vital bridge to Southeast Asia rather than a distant frontier.
The Vice President pointed to several flagship initiatives that are reshaping connectivity and infrastructure in the area. The newly inaugurated Bairabi–Sairang railway line, along with schemes such as UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) and PM-DevINE, were cited as crucial steps toward integrating the Northeast with the rest of the country. These projects, he said, are not just about physical links but about creating a shared future of prosperity.
Students Urged to Become Job Creators
Addressing the graduating students, Radhakrishnan encouraged them to think beyond seeking employment and instead focus on becoming generators of opportunities. He emphasized that the region holds immense potential in sectors like tourism, bamboo-based industries, organic farming, handicrafts, and digital services. With the right mindset and skills, he argued, the Northeast can compete on a global stage.
The Vice President also reflected on the symbolic significance of Mizoram University, nestled among scenic hills. He described the institution as a living example of how education, when combined with peace and purpose, can drive meaningful change in society.
Concern Over Rising Substance Abuse
Radhakrishnan expressed deep concern about the growing issue of substance abuse among young people in the region. He called upon students to take an active role in spreading awareness and leading campaigns against drugs within their communities. He further advised the youth to use social media responsibly and harness digital technologies for the betterment of society rather than allowing them to become tools of distraction or harm.
Dignitaries Present at the Ceremony
The convocation was attended by several prominent figures, including Mizoram’s Governor and Chief Rector of the University, General (Retd.) Vijay Kumar Singh; Chief Minister Lalduhoma; Vice Chancellor Professor Dibakar Chandra Deka; faculty members; distinguished guests; parents; and the graduating cohort of students. Their collective presence underscored the importance of the occasion for the state and the region as a whole.
The Vice President’s address at Mizoram University marks another step in reinforcing the message that the Northeast is no longer a peripheral part of the country but a dynamic hub of opportunity and growth. As infrastructure improves and policies take effect, the region’s young population stands at the forefront of this new chapter in India’s development story.
