The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh has said that Northeast is an emerging destination for new "Startups" from across the country. He was addressing the inaugural session of “Youth Connect” programme organized by Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar College, University of Delhi, today. Dr. Jitendra Singh said, with increasing awareness about Northeast in the rest of the country and the government led by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s special focus on the region, the day is not far when youth from all parts of India will be heading for North-Eastern States to explore new avenues of employment and vocation. As the connectivity by air, rail and road improves and various initiatives of Central Government make headway, Northeast region will emerge as an important industrial and business hub, not only for India but also for the other countries across the eastern border.
Referring to “Startup India, Standup India” plan announced by Prime Minister on 16th of this month, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, while the provision of two years of tax-free facility and 3 months’ exit period are unique features of this plan, on behalf of the Ministry of DoNER, an added incentive is being contemplated in the form of a “Venture” fund for new entrepreneurs so as to provide them relief from financial liabilities. This will not only boost employability and revenue in the region, but would also offer an incentive and thus attract youth from the other parts of the country to come and to participate in the development of the North-Eastern States.
With India on the threshold of becoming a world power on the strength of its youth energy, who comprise more than 65% of the country’s population, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, the youth of Northeast, with their superlative talent and high literacy rate, are going to make a substantial contribution in the ascent of 21st century India. He called upon youth to make the best of this opportunity and assured that the DoNER Ministry will do everything possible to facilitate optimum utilization of the youth potential from Northeast. He further informed that the Ministry has already started a Call Centre and invited youth from across the country to feel free to offer their inputs and become participants in planning the future initiatives by the Ministry.