Prime Minister Modi said that modern airports and advanced connectivity infrastructure act as gateways to new possibilities for any state. He underlined that such facilities strengthen public confidence, boost investment, and integrate regions with national and global markets.
He declared that Assam and the Northeast are now emerging as the new gateway to India’s development, adding that the region will play a leading role in the country’s future growth story.
A Personal Bond with Assam
Expressing his emotional connection with the state, the Prime Minister said the affection and warmth of the people of Assam, especially its mothers and sisters, continue to inspire him. He noted that every visit to the state strengthens his resolve to work tirelessly for its progress.
Quoting the legendary Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, Shri Modi said the dreams envisioned in his songs are turning into reality as Assam witnesses continuous development.
Honouring Gopinath Bardoloi’s Legacy
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister unveiled the statue of Gopinath Bardoloi, Assam’s first Chief Minister, calling him a towering leader who safeguarded the state’s identity and interests.
He said Bardoloi’s unwavering commitment to Assam continues to inspire generations and reminded the nation of his role in preserving Assam’s place within India.
Correcting Decades of Neglect
Shri Modi criticised previous governments for neglecting Assam and the Northeast for decades, stating that infrastructure development in the region was never prioritised. He remarked that outdated mindsets had denied the region modern airports, highways and rail connectivity.
He asserted that his government is correcting these historic mistakes and ensuring that Assam receives the attention and resources it deserves.
Infrastructure Driving Assam’s Transformation
The Prime Minister highlighted that in the past eleven years, development projects worth lakhs of crores of rupees have been initiated in Assam and the Northeast. He cited improvements in road networks, railways, bridges and digital connectivity as evidence of this transformation.
He noted that major bridges over the Brahmaputra, expanded railway services, Vande Bharat trains and enhanced waterways have significantly strengthened connectivity and economic activity.
Nature-Themed Airport with Global Standards
Shri Modi said the new terminal reflects the vision of “development along with heritage”. Designed as India’s first nature-themed airport terminal, it draws inspiration from Assam’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.
The terminal uses extensive bamboo sourced from the Northeast and features greenery, orchid-inspired columns and an indoor “Sky Forest” that offers passengers a serene travel experience.
Boost to Tourism, Trade and Employment
The Prime Minister stated that the new terminal will increase the airport’s capacity to handle over 1.25 crore passengers annually. This, he said, will boost tourism, facilitate pilgrimages to Maa Kamakhya, and create new employment opportunities.
He added that improved connectivity enables local products to reach global markets and gives confidence to investors.
Assam as India’s Eastern Gateway
Shri Modi said the Act East Policy has given fresh momentum to the Northeast, positioning Assam as India’s eastern gateway and a bridge to ASEAN countries.
He emphasised that Assam’s strategic role will expand further as multimodal connectivity continues to strengthen across the region.
Vision for a Developed India
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister said the world now looks at India with hope, and the new sunrise of the nation’s future will rise from the Northeast.