Peace, security necessary conditions for development says President Pranab Mukherjee

“India's future and economic interests are best served by closer integration with rest of Asia.  

“The states of the north east should lead in making our neighbours partners in our development and harnessing the opportunities that are emerging from the rise of Asia and India's growing economic integration with the region,” he said.

He called for fast efforts to ensure rail, road and air connectivity to this north eastern state.  

“The Centre and state governments should work together to rapidly build connectivity and infrastructure linkages with the rest of India as well as to our neighbours,” he said.  

Mukherjee said India's economy will continue to witness rapid growth and the country will soon emerge as a strong and powerful nation.

“India is making determined progress in every field of activity - be it business, industry, trade, education or culture. A billion people are marching forward led by the ideas, enterprise and energy of its predominantly young population.

“I am confident that India will soon emerge as a strong and powerful nation, our economy will continue to witness rapid growth and people will enjoy a high quality of life as well as freedom, justice and equality,” he said.  

Mukherjee while noting progress made by Nagaland in past years emphasised upon creating more job opportunities for the youths of the state.

“Nagaland has come a long way since attaining statehood.  Its achievements in human development and industrial growth are noteworthy. Yet, the expectations of the people from economic development are high.

There is need for infrastructure and connectivity. Youth must get jobs. There should be visible improvement in the quality of life. Development should be inclusive, equitable and sustainable,” Mukherjee said.