Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that development of infrastructure is a major issue for 
overall development of the country. The Prime Minister was speaking at the flagging off ceremony of the first train from Mendipathar in Meghalaya to Guwahati.
Mr Modi also laid foundation stone for new rail line from Bhairabi to Salrang in Mizoram. He said that connecting Meghalaya by train is a remarkable day in the history of railways. Mr. Modi said that development of the North Eastern states is required for the progress of the country.
The Prime Minister said that government has decided to privatize railway stations to earn revenue. He said that under the plan, hotels, motels and malls will be set at railway stations and initially, it will be implemented in 10 to 12 stations.
He said that the government has allowed 100 percent FDI in railways for better infrastructure. The Prime Minister stressed on the need of developing North East as a tourist destination. Mr. Modi also announced that four Railways Universities will be set up in the country for specialized railway courses.
Emphasizing on Act East policy, Narendra Modi said that proper connectivity with neighbouring countries would provide a better job opportunities for the youths of North-East. Mr. Modi stressed on finding out eco-friendly measures for railways.
Giving emphasis on Next Generation connectivity, Mr. Modi said that people should go hand to hand with Highways and Information-Ways. Mr. Modi also stressed on connecting the North-East through optical fiber network. The Governors and Chief Ministers of Assam, Mizoram and Meghalaya along with some Union Ministers attended the function.
correspondent in his report says thousands of people gave a warm reception to Narendra Modi at Maligaon railway stadium on his maiden visit to Assam as a Prime Minister. Narendra Modi expressed happiness that Meghalaya has got a place in the railway map. He termed the railways as the economic backbone of the country.
Assuring that he is taking special interest in the development of the North East, Mr Modi stressed the need to develop the region as tourist destination. Modi said that development of the North Eastern states is required for the progress of the country. Tomorrow the Prime Minister will take part in the DGPs conference and also attend a party meeting.
Prime Minister later today inaugurated the platinum jubilee celebration of The Assam Tribune newspaper in Guwahati. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Modi lauded the role of the newspaper. Mr. Modi said that newspapers mold the peoples’ thoughts.