Centre working with passion for N-E development

The Centre is “passionately” working to usher in all-round development of the North-East, including improving connectivity and encouraging organic farming, Minister-in-charge of the region Jitendra Singh told the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

He, however, refused to respond to the demand of some members for repeal of the “draconian” Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the region, saying the matter concerns the Home Ministry and he was not competent to speak.

He made the comments while replying to a debate on Demand of Grants (2015-16) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DONER) which was passed by voice vote.

Singh said PM Narendra Modi had made many visits to North-East and Union ministers are regularly touring the region, which reflects the importance being accorded to it by the government. Asserting that the Centre was keen to ensure all-round development of the North-East, he talked about the steps being taken for last two years to improve transport, telecommunications, healthcare and education services in the region.