Ashtalakshmi (Government Schemes & Initiatives)
Ashtalakshmi (Government Schemes & Initiatives)
Why In News:
Ashtalakshmi concept, as part of India's development narrative for the North-East, showcased the transformational infrastructure, social development, and economic growth achieved across the eight north-eastern states.
What is Ashtalakshmi?
Ashtalakshmi refers to the eight North-Eastern States of India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
Coined by PM: The term draws a parallel to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolising the eight states driving inclusive, sustainable, and transformation-led growth.
Transformation by Numbers
National Highways: Expanded from 10,905 km (2014) to 16,207 km (2025).
Rural Roads (PMGSY): 50,850 km constructed.
Airports: Increased from 9 to 17, extending air connectivity in the region.
National Waterways: Expanded from 1 to 20.
Vande Bharat Trains: Now reach the North-East.
PMAY-G Housing: 28 lakh+ houses completed in the North-East.
Key Policy Frameworks for the North-East
Act East Policy: India's strategic framework (upgraded from 'Look East' in 2014) to boost connectivity, trade, and cultural ties with Southeast Asia - with the North-East as the gateway.
PM-DevINE (PM Development Initiative for North East): Scheme with Rs 6,600 crore outlay to fund infrastructure and social development projects in the North-East.
North East Council (NEC): Statutory advisory body established under the NEC Act, 1971. Functions under DoNER.
Key Facts for Prelims
Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project: Connects Kolkata port to Mizoram via Myanmar (Sittwe port, Kaladan river, road). India-Myanmar bilateral project.
India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway: 1,360 km highway connecting Moreh (Manipur) to Mae Sot (Thailand) via Myanmar.
Integrated Check Posts (ICPs): Land ports with combined customs, immigration, security, and trade facilities on India's borders.