The Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission, Montek Singh Ahluwalia said, the thrust of the 12th Plan will be to ensure better surface and air connectivity in the eight North-Eastern states. He said, the works of road connectivity will continue despite geographical odds and natural impediments.

Possibilities of waterways are also being explored. Speaking to newsmen at Jorhat in Upper Assam, Mr. Ahluwalia assured that there will be at least one airport in each state of the North-East during this plan period. Presently Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh does not have airports. He said, the Planning Commission focused on infrastructure creation and connectivity during the 11th Plan and this will be continued in 12th plan period.

The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who visited Guwahati last week, has also said that the key to development in the north-eastern region is better educational and services infrastructure and connectivity.