Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the North Eastern Region a new direction in terms of growth and prosperity. Interacting with journalists in Guwahati today, the Chief Minister said that Assam and North East made progress during the past six years. <br />''<br />''He said that due to the good governance of Prime Minister Mr. Modi, all the people of Assam and North East have been benefited. <br />''<br />''He said that the Assam Government has given emphasis in protecting nature and wildlife. He said that the green coverage in Assam has also increased of late. Mr. Sonowal said that 8.5 crore tree saplings were planted in Assam during his tenure.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that the number of tigers has been increased in the Manas National Park and rhino poaching has been reduced at Kaziranga.</span><br />