NEW DELHI: In a significant step towards strengthening scientific and technological development in the Northeastern region, Minister for Science & Technology, Dasanglu Pul called on Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, and sought Centre's support , particularly for Biotech Projects in the State.

During the meeting, Pul submitted key proposals aimed at advancing scientific innovation, conservation of bioresources, and entrepreneurship in Arunachal Pradesh. Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the Centre's firm commitment to inclusive and sustainable development in the Northeast, emphasizing that Science & Technology must serve as a core driver of growth.

"The development of the Northeast has been one of Prime Minister Modi's highest priorities. The transformation since 2014 is evident-what was once a region struggling with connectivity is now witnessing unprecedented infrastructural, technological, and human resource growth," said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

He underscored how robust road networks, expanded railway lines, new airports, and improved aerial connectivity have revolutionized access to remote regions, enabling economic growth, tourism, and scientific outreach. He also highlighted that the hospitality and aviation sectors are actively recruiting talent from the Northeast, signaling a shift in the region's human capital development.

Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that Prime Minister Modi has visited the Northeast over 70 times since 2014, a record that demonstrates the Centre's continuous engagement and dedication to breaking both mental and physical barriers that previously distanced the region from mainstream development.

Dasanglu Pul reiterated three major proposals to Dr. Jitendra Singh for consideration. The first proposal focuses on the Integrated Ex-Situ Conservation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Diversity, aimed at characterizing and sustainably utilizing the genetic diversity of Rare, Endangered, and Threatened (RET) as well as economically important plant species, in collaboration with ICAR-NBPGR.

The second proposal involves the development of the Eastern Arunachal Regional Centre for Bioresource Management and Development, conceptualized under the BioE3 Vision, to be established at Kimin by the Centre of Excellence for Bioresources and Sustainable Development (CoE-BRSD). This centre will serve as a hub for bioresource innovation and entrepreneurship.

The third proposal seeks the establishment of a Bio-NEST Bioincubator at Roing in the Lower DibangValley, with the State urging early issuance of the Call for Proposals under BIRAC's Bioincubator Scheme to facilitate timely participation and capacity-building for startups and biotech entrepreneurs.

Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the strategic intent behind these proposals and assured that the Centre is actively reviewing them with top priority. He stated that close coordination is underway between the Department of Science & Technology and the State government to ensure time-bound and effective implementation.

"India's rise as one of the world's top three economies will be powered by unexplored and underexplored regions like the Northeast. These areas hold the key to fulfilling the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047," said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that over the past decade, the Government has made significant strides in improving connectivity across the Northeastern region. This includes the operationalization of new airports, the expansion of all-weather roads and highway networks, and the enhancement of railway connectivity, with regular train services now operating from Itanagar.

In addition, the Government has focused on opening new inland waterways to improve access to remote and border areas, thereby promoting regional integration and economic development.

The Minister emphasized that beyond physical infrastructure, investment in scientific institutions, research infrastructure, skill development, and youth entrepreneurship has emerged as a major catalyst for growth.

The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to accelerate ongoing projects and explore new avenues for collaboration between the Centre and the State.