Question 327
The Rising North East Investors Summit 2025, held during May 23-24, concluded on Saturday (May 24) with significant investment announcements made on the first day. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the summit on May 23. In his valedictory address the Union Minister of Communications and Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia said that the Northeast has emerged as a hub of global partnership and mutual interest. The Minister informed that the Rising North East Investors Summit 2025 drew an unprecedented Rs 4.3 lakh crore in investment interest, setting the stage for the Northeast Region (NER) to become India’s next economic powerhouse. MDoNER has been holding discussions with different stakeholders including investors, foreign diplomats, ambassadors encouraging them to explore investment opportunities in the Northeastern states. In the last one year, the ministry has led an extensive nationwide and international engagement effort in this direction. These key initiatives include nine domestic roadshows across major Indian cities, Ambassadors’ Meets with representatives from over 95 countries, six state roundtables, six sector-specific industry interactions, and numerous consultations with PSUs, industry chambers, and corporates. “From Guwahati to Mumbai, Hyderabad to Kolkata, nine investor road shows, two Ambassador meets, and engagement with over 131 investors and 24 industry members have sparked the momentum that is redefining the development narrative of the North East,” he added. Briefing about the progress seen by North eastern region in recent years, the minister said, “National highways in this region have grown from 10,905 kilometers in 2014 to 16,207 kilometers by 2024. A total of 694.5 megawatts of power generation capacity and over 10,000 circuit kilometers of transmission and distribution lines have been added. Thirty-six major aviation projects have been completed, and airports have doubled from 9 to 17 between 2014 and 2024.” The trailblazing investment summit, organized by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, hosted ministerial sessions, Business-to-Government sessions, Business-to-Business meetings, startups, and exhibitions of policy and related initiatives taken by state governments and central ministries for investment promotion. The Summit is the culmination of various pre-summit activities, such as a series of roadshows and states' roundtables, including Ambassador's Meet and Bilateral Chambers Meet, organized by the central government with active support from the state governments of the North Eastern Region. In the inaugural ceremony of the summit held on Friday, the Prime Minister highlighted that over the past decade, Rs 21,000 crore has been invested in the Northeast's education sector. He noted key developments, including the establishment of over 800 new schools, the region's first AIIMS, nine new medical colleges, and two new IIITs. The Prime Minister assured that the Northeast now offers top-tier talent across various sectors, encouraging industries and investors to leverage the region's immense potential. [Excerpts taken from PIB, Ministry of Development of North-East Region] Which city serves as the capital of Assam, one of the prominent states in India’s North Eastern Region?
Answer
Guwahati
Why?
The correct answer is Guwahati. Key Points Guwahati is the largest and most important city in the state of Assam, India. It is the administrative capital of Assam and serves as the political, educational, and cultural hub of the state. Guwahati is located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River, making it strategically significant. It is also known for its unique cultural heritage, including the famous Kamakhya Temple, which attracts visitors and devotees from across the country. Important Points While Shillong was once the capital of the erstwhile Assam province, after the reorganization of states in 1972, Guwahati became the capital of Assam. Imphal, the capital of Manipur, and Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, are other prominent cities in the North Eastern Region but do not serve as the capital of Assam. Guwahati has emerged as a major economic and cultural center in the North Eastern Region of India, playing a pivotal role in regional development. Additional Information Assam: Assam is one of the seven sister states in the North Eastern Region of India and is known for its tea gardens, oil reserves, and biodiversity. Shillong: Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya and is often referred to as the "Scotland of the East" due to its picturesque landscapes. Imphal: Imphal serves as the capital of Manipur and is renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Aizawl: Aizawl is the capital of Mizoram and is known for its vibrant Mizo culture and serene environment. Brahmaputra River: The Brahmaputra River, one of the major rivers in India, flows through Guwahati, adding to its geographical and economic significance.
