North East Christian University held a round table dialogue on Northeast India’s role in India’s Act East Policy with a delegation from the Ministry of External Affairs on March 12, 2026.
The MEA team was led by Aparna Ray, Joint Secretary in the Policy Planning and Research Division and the Centre for Contemporary China Studies. Members of the delegation included Col K. Shanaz, Col Rahul Mittal, Lt. Col Abhishek Acharya, Lt. Col Ravi Chandra of the Boundary Cell, Lt. Col Stuti Sharma, Pragya Pratishtha, Veeresh Kanduri, Dr. Jayshree Borah, Shreya Mishra and Dr. Apila Sangtam. Administrative staff of the university and faculty members from the International Relations programme also attended the meeting.
Discussions focused on India’s Act East Policy and the role of the Northeast in advancing the initiative. Participants deliberated on the impact of the political situation in Myanmar on Nagaland and the broader implementation of the policy. Issues related to trade and connectivity, cultural ties and tribal dynamics between communities in Nagaland and Myanmar were also discussed.
One of the key issues raised during the dialogue was the implications of withdrawing the Free Movement Regime. Representatives from NECU suggested that the decision be reassessed in view of its impact on border communities. Participants also highlighted the need to facilitate people to people connections across the region.
The session was chaired by Dr. Keneisenuo Solo, Coordinator of the International Relations Programme. Prof. Dr. Darlando T. Khathing, Pro-Chancellor of North East Christian University, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the university’s strategic location in relation to the Act East Policy and the role of its International Relations programme in promoting academic engagement on regional issues.