Shillong, Feb 1: Yet another new scheme, Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North-East, PM-DevINE was announced by the Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting the Union Budget 2022-23, on Tuesday.
The finance minister said the PM-DevINE will be implemented through the North Eastern Council. An initial allocation of Rs 1,500 crore will be made for the new scheme. It will fund infrastructure in the spirit of PM GatiShakti, and social development projects based on the needs of the North East, a Press Information Bureau (PIB) statement said.
PM GatiShakti deals with transportation projects.
“The new initiative will enable livelihood activities for youth and women, filling the gaps in various sectors’,, the minister said.
However, it will not be a substitute for existing central or state schemes. While the central ministries may also propose their projects, priority will be given to those propose by the states, the minister added.
Meghalaya specific projects not in first list
The initial list of projects include establishment of dedicated services for the management of paediatric and adult haemotolymphoid cancers in North East India, Guwahati (multi-state) -Rs 129 crore.
NECTAR livelihood improvement project (multi-state) -Rs 67 crore
Promoting scientific organic agriculture in North East (multi-state)- Rs 45 crore
Construction of Aizawl by-pass on Western side- Rs 500 crore
Gap funding for passenger ropeway system for pelling to Sanga-Choeling in West Sikkim- Rs 64 crore
Gap funding for eco-friendly ropeway (cable car) from Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga in South Sikkim -Rs 58 crore.
Pilot project for construction of bamboo link road at different locations in various districts in Mizoram Rs 100 crore
Others to be identified -Rs 537 crore
TOTAL: Rs 1500 crore
