Northeast and India’s Cross-Border Connectivity: A Leap Into the Changing Dimensions

This study explores the evolving dimensions of cross-border connectivity in Northeast India, focusing on the region’s strategic importance and the challenges it faces. The Northeast Region (NER) of India, which comprises eight states, shares a significant international boundary with neighboring countries, making it a crucial area for India’s Act East Policy (AEP). Despite policy measures like the Look East Policy (LEP) and AEP, the region remains economically disadvantaged due to various constraints, such as difficult terrain, poor connectivity, and border interruptions. The study highlights the historical context of cross-border trade interactions, the impact of colonial cartographic limitations, and the challenges posed by internal and external political-economic factors. It also examines the role of infrastructure development, including road, rail, and inland water transport (IWT) networks, in enhancing connectivity. The findings reveal that while connectivity projects have improved, issues such as ethnic conflict, insurgency, and restrictive policies, such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP), continue to hinder seamless cross-border trade. The study underscores the need for a multi-modal approach to regional infrastructure development and the importance of addressing both internal and external factors to foster economic growth and integration. By improving connectivity and creating a conducive political–economic environment, the NER can become a vibrant economic space and contribute to India’s broader geopolitical and economic objectives.