PM’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) | 07 Dec 2024

Source: PIB 

Why in News? 

Recently, in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, it was informed that 35 projects worth Rs. 4857.11 crore, including seven announced in Union Budget 2022-23, have been sanctioned under PM-DevINE. 

What is PM-DevINE Scheme? 

• About: PM-DevINE, is a Central Sector Scheme introduced in the Union Budget 2022-23 with the aim of promoting rapid and holistic development in the North East Region (NER). 
  • The scheme was approved by the Cabinet on 12th October 2022, with a total financial outlay of Rs 6600 crore for the period from 2022-23 to 2025-26.  
• Implementation: The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (MDoNER) to address region-specific developmental needs, ensuring efficient utilisation of resources and coordinated project execution. 
• Infrastructure Development: In line with the scheme's objectives, a total of 17 projects worth Rs. 2806.65 crore have been approved for NER. 
  • It aligns with PM GatiShakti, focusing on cohesive funding of infrastructure projects to ensure seamless connectivity and accessibility across NER. 
  • Prioritises funding for projects that tackle critical social issues and improve the quality of life for residents in NER. 
  • Emphasizes creating sustainable livelihood opportunities specifically for youth and women, fostering greater participation in the region’s growth. 
  • Focuses on bridging developmental disparities in sectors not covered by other schemes, enhancing regional balance. 
• Achievements under PM-DevINE: 
  • 35 projects worth Rs 4857.11 crore include initiatives such as cancer care facilities, university infrastructure upgrades, and radiation oncology centers.  
  • Road connectivity projects have developed new roads, connecting remote villages, reducing travel time, and boosting local economies.  
  • Smart water supply projects providing integrated drinking water systems have directly benefited over 1 lakh residents. 
• Ineligible Projects: Excludes projects involving Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) or those providing long-term individual benefits. 
  • Projects related to administrative buildings, government offices, or sectors already addressed by existing MDoNER schemes or listed in the Negative List are ineligible. 

What are Various Development Initiatives and Their Achievements in the North East? 

• Infrastructure Initiatives: 
  • Bharatmala Pariyojana, Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Project, and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway enhance regional and international connectivity, fostering trade and economic growth for the Northeast Region. 
  • The Regional Connectivity Scheme under UDAN works towards making air travel more affordable and accessible and linking remote areas. 
• Industrial Development: 
  • The North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS) (2017-2022) provided incentives for MSMEs to stimulate regional employment and industrial growth. 
  • The UNNATI Scheme (2024) was introduced to enhance industrialization, offering incentives such as capital investment support, interest subventions, and service-linked benefits. 
• Agricultural and Environmental Focus: 
  • The National Bamboo Mission promotes sustainable bamboo development, while the North Eastern Region Agri-Commodity e-Connect (NE-RACE) connects farmers to global markets, enhancing agricultural income. 
• Digital and Scientific Innovation: 
  • The Digital North East Vision 2022 aims to transform lives through digital technologies, while the North East Science and Technology Cluster (NEST) promotes grassroots innovations and eco-friendly technological growth. 
• Tourism, Cultural, Entrepreneurial Growth: 
  • The Swadesh Darshan Scheme develops tourism circuits to highlight the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage, promoting eco-tourism. 
  • Major festivals like Hornbill Festival and Pang Lhabsol, along with the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, promote regional traditions, handicrafts, and tourism.