Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, also known as the DoNER Ministry, is a branch of the Government of India that is responsible for the socio-economic development of the eight states in the North Eastern Region (NER) of India. These states include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. The ministry was established in 2001 to address the unique challenges faced by the NER and to accelerate its growth and development. The current Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region is G. Kishan Reddy.

History

The North Eastern Region of India has historically faced several challenges, including geographical isolation, inadequate infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities. Recognizing the need for focused attention on the region, the Government of India established the Department of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in 2001. In 2004, the department was elevated to a full-fledged ministry to ensure greater coordination and implementation of development schemes in the NER.

Organizational Structure

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region is headed by a Union Minister, who is assisted by a Minister of State. The ministry has two main divisions:

• The DoNER Division: Responsible for the overall coordination and monitoring of development schemes in the NER.
• The North Eastern Council (NEC) Division: Responsible for providing strategic guidance and support to the states in the NER.

The ministry also has several subordinate offices, including the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFi) and the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Ltd. (NERAMAC).

Key Initiatives and Schemes

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region has launched several initiatives and schemes to promote the socio-economic development of the NER. Some of the key schemes include:

• North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS): A scheme that provides financial assistance for infrastructure projects in the NER, with a focus on improving connectivity, power supply, and water management.
• North East Road Sector Development Scheme (NERSDS): A scheme that aims to improve the road network in the NER, including the construction of new roads and the upgradation of existing ones.
• North East Venture Fund (NEVF): A fund that provides financial support to start-ups and entrepreneurs in the NER, with a focus on promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
• Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR): A scheme that provides funding for infrastructure projects in the NER, with a focus on projects that have a regional impact and promote economic integration.

Collaboration with Other Ministries

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region works closely with other ministries and departments to ensure a coordinated approach to the development of the NER. For example, the ministry collaborates with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to improve road connectivity in the region, and with the Ministry of Power to enhance power supply and distribution. The ministry also works with the Ministry of Tourism to promote tourism in the NER, leveraging the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region plays a crucial role in promoting the socio-economic development of the North Eastern Region of India. Through its various initiatives and schemes, the ministry aims to address the unique challenges faced by the region and to unlock its vast potential. By working in collaboration with other ministries and stakeholders, the DoNER Ministry is committed to building a prosperous and inclusive future for the people of the North East.