In a landmark event for the state's development, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a series of projects worth over ₹9000 crore in Aizawl on 14th September, 2025. Addressing the gathering via videoconferencing, the Prime Minister announced the historic inclusion of the state capital on India's railway map, a move set to redefine connectivity and economic growth in the North East.

The projects span multiple crucial sectors, including Railways, Roadways, Energy, and Sports. Despite being unable to attend in person from Lengpui Airport due to adverse weather conditions, the Prime Minister conveyed his affection for the people of Mizoram.

A Historic Day for Connectivity

Describing the day as historic, Shri Modi proudly dedicated the new Bairabi–Sairang rail line to the nation. "From today, Aizawl will be on India’s railway map," he declared, recalling his laying of the foundation stone for the project a few years prior. He praised the engineers and workers who made the project a reality despite challenging terrain.

Significantly, the Prime Minister announced that for the first time, Sairang will be directly connected to Delhi via the Rajdhani Express. He emphasized that this is "not merely a railway connection, but a life-line of transformation" that will revolutionize the lives and livelihoods of Mizoram's people. This new link is expected to provide farmers and businesses with access to larger national markets, enhance options for education and healthcare, and generate substantial employment in tourism, transport, and hospitality.

Renewed Focus on the North East

Shri Modi underscored the current government's commitment to the development of the North East, contrasting it with what he termed the "vote-bank politics" of the past that led to the region's neglect. "Those who were earlier neglected are now at the forefront," he stated, adding that the North East is becoming the "growth engine of India."

He highlighted that Mizoram plays a major role in the Act East Policy and the emerging North East Economic Corridor. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the Sairang–Hmawngbuchhuah rail line will connect the state to the Bay of Bengal through South East Asia, boosting regional trade and tourism. Further enhancements in connectivity include helicopter services under the UDAN scheme to improve access to remote areas.

Empowering Youth and Boosting the Economy

The Prime Minister emphasized the government's mission to empower Mizoram's talented youth. He cited the establishment of 11 Eklavya Residential Schools with 6 more underway, and the growth of a start-up ecosystem with 4,500 start-ups in the region.

Recognizing Mizoram’s rich sporting tradition, particularly in football, Shri Modi mentioned that modern sports infrastructure is being created under the Khelo India scheme. He also highlighted the benefits of the Vocal for Local initiative for Mizoram’s artisans and farmers, known for their bamboo products, organic ginger, turmeric, and bananas.

On the national economic front, the Prime Minister noted that India's economy grew by 7.8% in the first quarter of 2025–26, making it the fastest-growing major economy. He also touched upon recent GST reforms, which have made daily essentials, medicines, and tourism more affordable, directly benefiting households and sectors crucial to the North East.

In his concluding remarks, Shri Modi reaffirmed his government's commitment to building a developed India through the empowerment of its people. He expressed confidence that Mizoram will play a vital role in this national journey and warmly welcomed Aizawl to India’s railway map.

The event was attended by the Governor of Mizoram, General V K Singh; Chief Minister of Mizoram, Shri Lalduhoma; and Union Minister, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, among other dignitaries.

Source/RSB