India and the European Union (EU) share a thriving partnership, underpinned by a shared commitment to fostering a free, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific region. India’s Northeastern Region (NER) offers unique opportunities for this collaboration, particularly in addressing challenges and unlocking its vast potential for economic development. Despite its rich natural resources, vibrant cultural diversity, and strategic location, the region faces persistent issues, including limited infrastructure, restricted market access, and inadequate livelihood opportunities.

The partnership between India and the EU can address these challenges by leveraging their respective strengths. NER can benefit from EU expertise in sustainable practices, value chain development, and skill enhancement, while India’s policies such as Skill India and Startup India provide an enabling framework for collaboration. Together, these efforts can foster long-term economic growth and create a thriving ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. NER’s natural advantages, such as its organic produce and rich biodiversity, make it a prime candidate for value chain development in agriculture and agribusiness. With increasing global demand for organic and sustainably grown products, joint efforts in this sector can boost local incomes and enhance the region’s market access.

Similarly, the development of agritourism, leveraging NER’s picturesque landscapes and agricultural heritage, can stimulate rural economies while preserving its unique cultural identity. Skill enhancement and livelihood creation are vital for driving economic progress in NER. EU collaboration in skill-building programs aligned with India’s PMKVY 4.0 initiative can modernize workforce capabilities, ensuring industry-ready youth and creating new employment opportunities. Furthermore, the promotion of green entrepreneurship, based on the region’s unique products such as Assam’s tea and Mizoram’s bamboo, can establish NER as a hub for sustainable business practices.

Keeping these aspects in mind, Asian Confluence along with the Centre for Responsible Business is hosting an exclusive roundtable discussion on European Union Investments for North East India Economic Development. This event will bring together key stakeholders from India and the EU to explore actionable strategies and collaborative opportunities for fostering sustainable development and economic resilience in the region.

• Welcome by Mr. Sabyasachi Dutta, Executive Director, Asian Confluence
• Tone setting by Mr. Franck Viault, Head of Cooperation, European Union Delegation to India and Bhutan
• Remarks by Mr. Rijit Sengupta, CEO, CRB
• Moderated Intervention by discussants
• Summary and wrap up by Asian Confluence
• Group Photo