Transformation in North East India propelled by air infrastructure advancements
The development of North East India's airports is set to revolutionise the region, according to a recent report titled 'Unlocking the Economic Viability and Potential of North Eastern Airports'. This promising avenue for economic growth, tourism promotion, and cultural exchange is attracting significant investment and attention.
One of the key benefits of improved air connectivity is the transportation of perishable items. All-weather airports ensure that these items are transported in a timely manner, reducing transportation lags.
The Government of India has recognised the potential of this sector and has launched initiatives such as the Krishi Udan scheme. This scheme provides waivers for various charges related to agricultural produce air transportation, further bolstering the agricultural sector.
Air operations in the North East have seen a 36 percent increase from August 2017 to August 2022, a testament to the growing importance of air travel in the region.
Aviation is not just about transportation. As stated by Mithun Martin, CEO of Martin Consultancy, it can create jobs and reduce dependence on rail or road transport. This shift towards aviation is expected to continue, with the number of operational airports in the region almost doubling since 2014, now standing at 17.
The Government of India has shown its commitment to this sector by allocating INR 56 billion in this year's annual budget for aviation augmentation, an increase of 47 percent from the previous year. This funding will undoubtedly contribute to the modernisation of air infrastructure in the region.
The benefits of this development are already being felt by the people of the North East. In 2022, about 11.8 million domestic and 100,000 foreign tourists visited North Eastern states, a significant increase from previous years. This influx of tourists has led to income enhancement and socioeconomic development for the region.
Notable industrialists such as Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani have also shown interest in the region, with plans to increase investment in North-East Indian states from INR 300 billion to INR 750 billion and INR 1 trillion respectively in the coming years.
The development of airport infrastructure has also opened up opportunities for businesses. Farmers in the region are earning better incomes due to outbound air cargo from the newly-built airports. A start-up named North East Farm Sales Promotion even sent organic food items from North East India to Vietnam using newly started flights.
The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme by the Government of India is facilitating regional air connectivity in North-East Indian states and with other cities. This scheme is expected to further boost tourism and economic growth in the region.
The overall number of tourists is set to increase by 25 percent year-on-year in 2025, a promising sign for the future of tourism in North East India. The region is indeed getting benefitted due to proper airway access to remote areas and the modernisation of air infrastructure. The future of North East India looks bright, with the aviation sector playing a pivotal role in its development.
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