Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the new terminal building of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati, calling it a landmark in Assam’s connectivity, economic growth and global engagement. Addressing the gathering, Modi said the inauguration marked a “festival of development” for Assam and the Northeast, adding that the project symbolised a new chapter in the region’s progress The Prime Minister said modern airports and connectivity infrastructure open new opportunities for states by boosting investor confidence, supporting local industries and enabling regional products to access global markets. He noted that with the new terminal, Guwahati airport’s capacity will rise to over 12.5 million passengers annually, facilitating tourism growth and making it easier for devotees to visit the Kamakhya temple. Designed around Assam’s natural and cultural heritage, the terminal features greenery, bamboo-based elements and indoor forest-like spaces, reflecting the government’s development-with-heritage approach.

Modi also unveiled a statue of Gopinath Bardoloi, Assam’s first chief minister, describing him as a leader who safeguarded the state’s identity and interests. He said Bardoloi’s legacy continues to inspire pride and confidence among future generations. Highlighting infrastructure-led development over the past 11 years, Modi said projects worth several trillion rupees have been initiated across Assam and the Northeast, correcting decades of neglect. He pointed to milestones such as large-scale smart prepaid meter installations, faster job recruitment without corruption, and the global promotion of Assam’s culture, including the Guinness World Records Bihu dance performance.

The Prime Minister said Assam is emerging as India’s eastern gateway under the Act East policy, playing a key role in connecting the country with ASEAN nations. He highlighted major connectivity gains, including new bridges over the Brahmaputra, expanded railway links, Vande Bharat services, and increased inland waterway cargo traffic, which has risen by about 140 per cent. These developments, he said, are transforming the Northeast into a hub of logistics, tourism and industrial growth.

Modi criticised previous governments for sidelining Assam and the Northeast, stating that sustained underinvestment had affected security and development. He said the current focus is on inclusive growth, safeguarding regional identity, and removing illegal encroachments so that resources benefit local communities. Emphasising the importance of unity and vigilance, he called on the people of Assam to remain committed to development and resist attempts to derail progress.

Governor of Assam Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal, K Rammohan Naidu, Murlidhar Mohol and Pabitra Margherita, among other dignitaries, were present at the event.