Economic development only long term solution for peace, stability in Northeast: Meghalaya CM

Shillong: Even as the situation in the Northeast has improved in the last 10 years, the long-term solution for peace and stability in the region is only through economic development, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said on Saturday.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, Sangma asserted that there has been a “drastic reduction” in overall insurgency.

“There are certain incidents and certain areas where slight problems are still there but at large if you look at the last 10 years things have improved. There has been a drastic reduction in the overall insurgency in the different incidents taking place. So there has been a reduction,” the National People’s Party leader told PTI.

While admitting that certain states have been “facing problems”, he said that in the long run, the solution to peace and stability in the region is by creating necessary infrastructures and proper economic development.

“So once economic development comes in, connectivity comes in, tourism is boosted, infrastructure is boosted, direct investments are coming in through the private sector, these will be the long-term game changer and will bring permanent stability and peace in this region,” the 46-year-old leader said.

He added that the region is moving in the right direction and he is confident of seeing “the situation improve and get better in the future”.

The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, first held in 2016, coincides with the blossoming of cherry trees in the state capital.

The festival over the years has invited national and international artistes including Ronan Keating, Akon, Boney M, Jasleen Royal, and Kanika Kapoor apart from artistes from the northeast, including Khasi Bloodz, Jessie Lyngdoh, and The Great Society.

The state government has championed the festival for its support to local artisans who showcase food, textile, handloom, and handicraft products.

Talking about the success of the festival, Sangma said it has become “almost self-sustaining” because of the huge interest shown by tourists from across India and abroad.

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