Northeastern powerhouses Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh are ramping up pressure on New Delhi for bumper central funding to supercharge their infrastructure ahead of the crucial Union Budget. The states argue that targeted investments are vital to overcome their rugged terrains and isolation. Arunachal Pradesh leads the charge, with leaders citing the urgent need for all-weather roads connecting remote Tawang and Anjaw districts. ‘Border security and local livelihoods depend on these lifelines,’ remarked a senior official, referencing frequent monsoon disruptions that isolate communities. Mizoram echoes this sentiment, pushing for funds to electrify villages under the Saubhagya scheme and expand its sole airport at Lengpui. The state has prepared detailed project reports, projecting that Rs 5,000 crore could transform connectivity within three years. This isn’t mere wishlist territory; both states have submitted memorandums to the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
