Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development works worth over Rs 90 billion in Aizawl, Mizoram today. The projects span multiple sectors including railways, roadways, energy, and sports. Addressing the gathering via videoconference, the Prime Minister paid respects to Supreme God Pathian, the guardian of the Blue Mountains, and expressed regret for being unable to join the people in person due to inclement weather.Shri Modi highlighted the contribution of Mizoram’s people to the nation, recalling the sacrifices of figures like Lalnu Ropuiliani and Pasaltha Khuangchera. He emphasised that courage, compassion, and service are values deeply embedded in Mizo society.Describing the day as historic, Shri Modi announced that Aizawl is now officially on India’s railway map. The Bairabi–Sairang rail line, overcoming challenging terrain, has been completed and will directly connect Sairang with Delhi via the Rajdhani Express. This rail link is expected to transform livelihoods, enhance market access for farmers and businesses, and create jobs in tourism, transport, and hospitality.The Prime Minister noted that historically, the North East had been neglected due to vote-bank politics. Over the past 11 years, the government has prioritised development in the region, making it a new growth engine for India. Investments in roads, railways, mobile and internet connectivity, electricity, tap water, and LPG connections have strengthened infrastructure. Mizoram will also benefit from the UDAN air connectivity scheme, and helicopter services will soon commence.Shri Modi emphasised Mizoram’s strategic role in the Act East Policy and the North East Economic Corridor. Projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport and Sairang–Hmawngbuchhuah rail line will connect the state to the Bay of Bengal and South East Asia, boosting trade and tourism.Highlighting youth empowerment, he noted that 11 Eklavya Residential Schools have been established in Mizoram, with six more underway. The North East hosts around 4,500 start-ups and 25 incubators, with Mizo youth actively participating in innovation and entrepreneurship.On sports, the Prime Minister highlighted Mizoram’s rich tradition and the government’s support through the Khelo India scheme and the National Sports Policy—Khelo India Khel Niti—creating modern infrastructure and opportunities for young athletes.Shri Modi also praised the North East’s cultural heritage, mentioning the Ashta Lakshmi Festival and the Rising North East Summit, which showcased textiles, crafts, GI-tagged products, and tourism potential. Initiatives like Vocal for Local support local artisans and farmers, including Mizo bamboo products, organic ginger, turmeric, and bananas.Discussing economic reforms, the Prime Minister highlighted the reduction of GST on daily essentials from 27 per cent to 5 per cent, making medicines, insurance, cement, scooters, and cars more affordable. GST on hotels has also been reduced to 5 per cent, supporting tourism in the North East.Shri Modi underscored India’s economic growth, noting a 7.8 per cent increase in the first quarter of 2025–26, and highlighted the role of Make in India and exports in national development and security.Concluding, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering every citizen, region, and community, expressing confidence that Mizoram’s people will play a key role in India’s development. He congratulated Mizoram on joining the nation’s railway map and looked forward to visiting Aizawl in person soon.The Governor of Mizoram, General V K Singh, Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma, and Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw were present, along with other dignitaries.