Role of central policies in the development of north-east India

Abstract

North East India is endowed with a rich biodiversity and a unique blend of people, culture and traditions. Though rich with strong natural and human resources, it has remained economically backward and politically turbulent, even after fifty eight years of Independence. When we look back over the last five decades of government policies towards the NE region, we find almost all policies have failed measurably. The central policy of Government of India towards NE region had undergone five paradigms: a) In 1950 s: Cultural Paradigm. b) In 1960 s: Security Paradigm. c) In 1970 s: Politics Paradigm. d) In 1980 s: Development Paradigm. e) In 1990 s: Package Paradigm. But nothing changed significantly in NE region. Here arises an obvious question to ask why, after 40 or 50 years of playing around with different paradigms the region is still in a crisis? The present policy framework for the Northeast region is based on its political economy and a cultural approach, adjusted with a regional planning model. It is implemented mainly through the Planning Commission and the Northeast Council. Despite huge financial investments, this has failed to produce desired results. North-east region is far more strategic in comparison to the commonly believed status of a sensitive region. In addition to its potential natural endowments, both in terms of natural resources and an attractive tourist destination, the area is being seen as the country s veritable gateway to the Southeast Asia which can play a significantly important role in the globalised economy. If the correct policies are pursued, the region will be able to improve its own economy and can equally contribute to the national economy. A new policy framework for the region, possibly, will have to be based on the market approach(duly incorporating certain political and cultural factors, which are crucial and unique to the region).The research work aims to establish the main reasons for the failure of the Central Government s existing policy framework and develop a workable model/solution to bolster a faster pace of development.