Shillong, May 27 (UNI) Emphasising the role of North East in the India growth story, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said the eight states of the region have the potential to become the organic basket of the country. Addressing a rally after attending the valedictory function of the 65th Plenary Session of North Eastern Council here, Mr Modi said, “ Sikkim has shown the way and other seven North Eastern states should strive to become the organic basket of India.' Listing works done by the two-year-old National Democratic Alliance government for the development of the region, Mr Modi said “a lot is being done but much more remains. “It is our mission to upgrade infrastructure, roadways, railways, telecom and power sector in the region.' Mr Modi said the government has earmarked Rs 10,000 crores for the expansion of railway network in the region out of which Rs 5,000 crores have already been spent. The Prime Minister said the NDA government's renewed focus on Act East policy will usher in new growth era in the region and the North East can become the growth engine of South Asia. He said the North Eastern states, including Meghalaya, have immense potential in tourism sector and the government is working towards developing tourist circuits to provide better services to boost the arrival of travellers in the region. Counting the achievements of his government from Jan Dhan Yojana to MUDRA loan scheme, Mr Modi said more than six lakh people in the north eastern region have taken loans totalling to Rs 208 crores. Mr Modi, who laid the foundation of a soccer stadium at Ampati, Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma’s constituency, said “ Meghalaya could become the powerhouse of football in India.' Citing famous players from the state who played for India, Mr Modi said since football is a passion here it should be developed from grass root level. Prime Minister Modi also dedicated to the nation a weather observatory centre at Cherrapunjee, and flagged off three new passenger trains. UNI ABI CJ RP1900