Ministers and industry leaders emphasise strategic investments in infrastructure, livelihoods, and sustainability to bridge development gaps

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can serve as a catalyst in bridging critical development gaps across the North-Eastern, said Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister for Communication and Development of Northeastern Region, said at the second edition of the Northeast CSR Connect 2025, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

Speaking at the inaugural session, Scindia underlined three priority areas for CSR interventions in the region: infrastructure and basic services, livelihoods and skills, and environment and sustainability. “CSR acts as a catalyst for bridging gaps and building strengths in North-East India,” he said, adding that focused investments can help position the region as a model for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Echoing this sentiment, Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Government of Mizoram, noted that CSR spending in the state has the potential to transform communities and create lasting impact. He pointed to sports development as a particularly promising area, capable of nurturing young talent, boosting confidence, and opening new livelihood opportunities. Hmar also announced that Mizoram is in the final stages of launching Mizoram CSR Connect, an AI-based matchmaking platform to link companies with projects, verify partners, and provide real-time progress dashboards.

Highlighting untapped opportunities, Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor for Industry and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, said that skill development, entrepreneurship, and livelihood creation could be advanced significantly through targeted CSR funding.

Mukundan, President Designate of CII, described the Northeast CSR Connect initiative as a four-to-six-year transformative platform. He said it aims to channel CSR flows into healthcare, education, infrastructure, and livelihoods, while showcasing successful models and fostering long-term partnerships between companies and communities.