NEIINFRA 2026 concludes in Shillong, showcases Northeast growth vision

The North East India Infrastructure Summit & Exhibition 2026 (NEIINFRA) concluded in Shillong on Tuesday, bringing together industry leaders and investors to discuss infrastructure and sustainable growth opportunities across the Northeast. The two-day event highlighted the region’s growing importance as a hub for connectivity, trade, tourism and entrepreneurship.

Hosted by the Government of Meghalaya and organised by the Federation of Industry & Commerce of the North Eastern Region (FINER) in collaboration with the Build India Foundation, the summit focused on strengthening partnerships and accelerating development in the region.

Addressing the session, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat outlined a vision of transforming the Northeast into a gateway to Southeast Asia. He said infrastructure development was about connecting people to opportunities, services and markets, noting that more than `6 lakh crore had been invested in the region since 2014 across highways, railways, airports, waterways, digital networks and energy projects. He also stressed the importance of climate resilient development, environmental conservation and youth-led entrepreneurship.

Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman; Chairman of TIPRA Motha, emphasised that tourism should directly benefit local communities by generating jobs and income while preserving indigenous culture and the environment. He also called for improved air connectivity and cargo infrastructure to unlock economic opportunities.

TR Zeliang; Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, highlighted the importance of strengthening regional connectivity and infrastructure to unlock the Northeast’s economic potential and accelerate inclusive development across the region.

Key sessions explored tourism, industrial development, MSMEs, startups, renewable energy and infrastructure modernisation. Discussions on tourism focused on eco-tourism, heritage conservation and community-led initiatives, while a dedicated session on MSMEs and startups examined innovative funding mechanisms, incubation support and access to capital.

Shakil P Ahammed; Chief Secretary of Meghalaya highlighted the untapped potential of the tourism sector, calling for greater investment in skill development and hospitality training. Meanwhile, Meghalaya Minister Lahkmen Rymbui underlined opportunities in bioenergy, bamboo, broom grass and micro-hydropower projects, stressing the need for stronger market linkages and private-sector participation.

Another session examined the role of digital technologies, artificial intelligence and smart construction practices in accelerating infrastructure delivery across the region.

The summit concluded with a valedictory session where organisers reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative, technology-driven and inclusive development. FINER President Bajrang Lohia and Vice President Rajeev Agarwal said the discussions and partnerships forged during the event would help strengthen infrastructure, attract investment and position the Northeast as a major engine of India’s economic growth.