The North News
Mizoram, September 13
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth more than ₹9,000 crore in Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl, underscoring the region’s growing role in India’s economic and strategic future. Speaking through videoconference after being unable to travel to Aizawl due to bad weather, Modi said the day was “historic” as Aizawl was formally placed on India’s railway map. He dedicated the Bairabi–Sairang rail line to the people of Mizoram, calling it a “lifeline of transformation” that would link the state directly to Delhi through the Rajdhani Express.
The Prime Minister said the new connectivity would open markets for farmers and businesses, expand educational and healthcare options, and create jobs in tourism, transport and hospitality. “This is not merely a railway connection, but a revolution in lives and livelihoods,” he said.
Modi invoked the sacrifices of Mizoram’s historical figures such as Lalnu Ropuiliani and Pasaltha Khuangchera, saying their ideals of courage and service continue to inspire. He added that Mizoram’s contribution to the freedom struggle and nation-building had long been overlooked by governments that practised “vote-bank politics”.
The government, Modi said, has reversed decades of neglect of the North East, which he described as India’s “growth engine”. Over the past 11 years, the region had been brought into national infrastructure plans including roads, digital networks, power supply and water schemes, he added.
Mizoram will also benefit from India’s Act East Policy, with projects such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport initiative expected to link the state to South East Asia through the Bay of Bengal. Helicopter services and the UDAN air travel scheme are also planned for the region.
Emphasising youth empowerment, Modi said 11 Eklavya residential schools had been set up in Mizoram, with six more under way. He praised the rise of start-ups, incubators and sports talent in the state, highlighting new investment in sports infrastructure through the Khelo India programme.
The Prime Minister also spoke about broader reforms, including lower GST rates, which he said would reduce the cost of essentials, medicines, travel and hospitality services, helping families and boosting tourism.
“India’s economy has recorded growth of 7.8% in the first quarter of 2025–26, the fastest among major economies,” Modi said, adding that the country’s manufacturing strength was key to both exports and national security. He concluded by congratulating Mizoram and reiterating that although he was unable to visit Aizawl in person, he looked forward to meeting its people soon.
The ceremony was attended by Mizoram’s governor, General V K Singh, chief minister Lalduhoma, and union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, among others.
