15 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Polity & GovernancePolity & GovernanceNEWS

PM Modi accuses Congress of neglecting Northeast India

PM Modi accuses Congress of neglecting Northeast, endangering country's security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of neglecting the northeastern region and endangering the country’s security. He inaugurated the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu spanning the Brahmaputra. Modi said the world saw India’s military might when it executed Operation Sindoor.

He accused the Congress of protecting infiltrators and said the BJP is committed to ending illegal immigration. Modi also said the Budget allocation for Assam post-2014 increased five-fold from ₹10,000 crore during the Congress rule.

Key Facts

Prime Minister Modi accused the Congress of neglecting Northeast India.

He inaugurated the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu spanning the Brahmaputra.

The bridge is expected to cut travel time between Guwahati and north Guwahati to seven minutes.

Modi said the Budget allocation for Assam post-2014 increased five-fold from ₹10,000 crore during the Congress rule.

He accused the Congress of protecting infiltrators and said the BJP is committed to ending illegal immigration.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

GS Paper III: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

The news connects to the syllabus by highlighting the government's focus on regional development and infrastructure projects, as well as the challenges related to illegal immigration and border security.

In Simple Words

The Prime Minister is saying that the previous government didn't pay enough attention to Northeast India. He claims they put the country's safety at risk. Now, he says his government is investing more money in the region and building better infrastructure.

India Angle

For people in Assam, this means better roads and bridges to connect them to other parts of the state and country. It also means more jobs and opportunities as the government invests in development projects.

For Instance

Think of it like building a new flyover in your city. It makes it easier to get from one place to another, reduces traffic, and helps businesses move goods more efficiently.

If the government focuses on developing all regions of the country, including the Northeast, it can lead to more balanced economic growth and improve the lives of people living there.

Developing neglected regions strengthens the entire nation.

Visual Insights

Key Statistics from PM Modi's Address on Northeast India

Highlights key figures mentioned by PM Modi regarding development in Assam and the Northeast region, focusing on budget allocation increases.

Budget Allocation Increase for Assam Post-2014: 5-fold
Budget Allocation During Congress Rule: ₹10,000 crore

Northeast India: Key Infrastructure and Security Considerations

Highlights the location of the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu and the broader context of security and development in Northeast India.

Loading interactive map...

📍Assam📍Arunachal Pradesh📍Manipur

More Information

Background

The Northeast region of India has historically faced challenges related to connectivity and development. This has been attributed to various factors, including geographical constraints and socio-political dynamics. The lack of adequate infrastructure has hindered economic growth and integration with the rest of the country. The Brahmaputra River, a major geographical feature, has posed significant challenges to connectivity. Successive governments have attempted to address these issues through various initiatives. The focus has been on improving infrastructure, promoting economic development, and ensuring security. However, progress has been uneven, and the region continues to face challenges. The construction of bridges like the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu is aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel time. This is crucial for facilitating trade and commerce. Illegal immigration has been a long-standing concern in the Northeast, particularly in Assam. The issue is complex and involves socio-economic and political dimensions. The detection and deportation of illegal immigrants have been contentious issues. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019, has further complicated the matter, leading to widespread protests and debates about its impact on the region's demographic and cultural identity. Border security is also a critical aspect of the Northeast's security landscape. The region shares borders with several countries, including China, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. Maintaining peace and stability along these borders is essential for national security. Initiatives like Operation Sindoor, mentioned in the news, highlight the importance of military operations in safeguarding the country's interests.

Latest Developments

The current government has placed significant emphasis on the development of the Northeast region. Initiatives like the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) aim to improve infrastructure and connectivity. Increased budgetary allocations and focused attention on project implementation are key aspects of this strategy. The government's Act East Policy further underscores the importance of the region as a gateway to Southeast Asia. There is ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of various policies and initiatives in addressing the region's challenges. Concerns have been raised about the impact of development projects on the environment and local communities. Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and social equity remains a key challenge. Civil society organizations and local communities are actively engaged in advocating for their rights and concerns. The future outlook for the Northeast hinges on sustained efforts to address the region's unique challenges. This includes improving governance, promoting inclusive growth, and ensuring security. The successful implementation of various development projects and initiatives will be crucial for realizing the region's potential. Collaboration between the central government, state governments, and local communities is essential for achieving sustainable and equitable development. Recent developments also include increased focus on tourism and cultural preservation in the Northeast. The government is promoting tourism as a means of generating employment and boosting the local economy. Efforts are also being made to preserve and promote the region's rich cultural heritage. This includes supporting local artisans and promoting traditional arts and crafts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key takeaways regarding the accusations made by PM Modi concerning the Congress party and Northeast India?

PM Modi accused the Congress of neglecting the Northeast region and endangering national security. He also stated that the budget allocation for Assam has increased significantly under the current government compared to the previous Congress regime, and accused the Congress of protecting infiltrators.

2. What is the significance of the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu inaugurated by PM Modi?

The Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu, built at a cost of ₹3,030 crore, is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Guwahati and north Guwahati, cutting it down to approximately seven minutes. This improved connectivity is vital for the region's development.

3. How does the current government's approach to the Northeast differ from that of the previous Congress government, according to PM Modi?

PM Modi stated that the budget allocation for Assam has increased five-fold since 2014 compared to the Congress rule when it was ₹10,000 crore. He also emphasized the current government's commitment to ending illegal immigration, contrasting it with the Congress's alleged protection of infiltrators.

4. What is the importance of improved infrastructure and connectivity in the Northeast region for India's overall development and security?

Improved infrastructure and connectivity in the Northeast region facilitate economic growth, improve access to essential services, and enhance national security by enabling faster deployment of resources and personnel to border areas. It also promotes better integration of the region with the rest of the country.

5. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of the current government's focus on infrastructure development in the Northeast, considering historical neglect?

The focus on infrastructure development can lead to economic growth, improved living standards, and better integration with the rest of India. However, potential drawbacks include environmental impact, displacement of local communities, and the risk of unsustainable development if not managed properly. It is important to balance development with environmental protection and the rights of indigenous populations.

6. Why is the issue of illegal immigration in the Northeast frequently in the news, and what are the government's initiatives to address it?

The issue of illegal immigration in the Northeast is frequently in the news due to concerns about demographic changes, resource scarcity, and security implications. The government has stated its commitment to ending illegal immigration, but specific initiatives were not detailed in the provided information.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu: 1. It spans the Brahmaputra River, connecting the North and South banks. 2. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 3. It is aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel time in the Northeast region. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

All the statements are correct. The Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu spans the Brahmaputra River, connecting the North and South banks, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and aims to improve connectivity and reduce travel time in the Northeast region. The bridge is a significant infrastructure project aimed at boosting regional development.

2. With reference to the Northeast region of India, what is the primary objective of Operation Sindoor, as mentioned in the news?

A.To provide humanitarian aid to flood victims
B.To combat illegal immigration
C.To showcase India's military might
D.To promote cultural exchange programs

Show Answer

Answer: C

The news mentions that the world saw India’s military might when it executed Operation Sindoor. Therefore, the primary objective of Operation Sindoor, in the context of the news, is to showcase India's military might. While the other options might be relevant to the Northeast region, they are not the specific objective mentioned in relation to Operation Sindoor.

3. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019, in the context of Northeast India?

A.It grants citizenship to religious minorities who have fled persecution from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
B.It has been a contentious issue, leading to widespread protests and debates.
C.It aims to address the issue of illegal immigration in the region.
D.It has been universally welcomed by all communities in the Northeast region.

Show Answer

Answer: D

Option D is NOT correct. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019, has not been universally welcomed by all communities in the Northeast region. It has faced significant opposition and protests due to concerns about its impact on the region's demographic and cultural identity. The other statements are generally correct regarding the CAA.

4. Consider the following statements regarding the Brahmaputra River: 1. It originates in the Himalayas and flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh. 2. It is a major source of water and transportation for the Northeast region of India. 3. The Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu is constructed over this river to improve connectivity. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

All the statements are correct. The Brahmaputra River originates in the Himalayas and flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh. It is a major source of water and transportation for the Northeast region of India. The Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu is constructed over this river to improve connectivity. These facts highlight the river's significance for the region.