Why the Northeast Deserves More Attention in National Media

India is a country known for its diversity — in language, culture, landscape, and people. Yet, this diversity often doesn’t find equal space in the national conversation. One such example is the Northeast region of India, which includes states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. Despite being a vibrant and integral part of the nation, the Northeast is frequently underrepresented in national media, especially during times of crisis.

As someone from Assam or someone who has explored this beautiful state, one cannot help but notice the silence around Northeast issues in mainstream coverage. Whether it’s floods in Assam, socio-political developments, or cultural celebrations — national attention is often missing. This neglect raises serious questions about inclusivity, representation, and national unity.

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The Invisible Crises: Floods in Assam

Every year, Assam faces devastating floods, affecting millions of people. Homes are destroyed, lives are lost, and entire villages are submerged. Despite the scale of the disaster, these events rarely make it to the front pages of major newspapers or the primetime slots of national news channels.

Compare this to similar disasters in other parts of India — when it rains heavily in Mumbai or Chennai, it dominates national headlines. But when Assam is underwater for weeks, it often ends up as a small footnote — if mentioned at all.

This lack of visibility has real consequences. Disaster relief, donations, and even public empathy depend greatly on media coverage. When a region’s suffering is ignored, so is the urgency to act.

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We Are Also India: Our Contributions Matter

The narrative of the Northeast being “distant” or “separate” is not just unfair — it’s untrue. The Northeast contributes significantly to India’s economy, culture, biodiversity, and strategic strength.

• Tea from Assam, for example, is globally famous and a major export product.
• The region is rich in oil and natural gas, especially in Assam and Tripura.
• Border security in the Northeast is critical, with several states sharing international boundaries.
• In sports, culture, and education, the Northeast consistently produces talented individuals who shine nationally and globally.

Despite all this, the representation of the Northeast in Indian media is minimal. This gap creates a disconnect between the people of the Northeast and the rest of India, reinforcing a harmful “mainland vs. periphery” mindset.

A Region Rich in Culture and Diversity

Media attention isn’t just about reporting disasters or conflicts. It’s also about celebrating culture, achievements, and everyday life.

The Northeast is home to more than 200 tribes, each with its own customs, languages, and festivals. Events like Bihu (Assam), Hornbill Festival (Nagaland), and Chapchar Kut (Mizoram) are vibrant cultural showcases that deserve national recognition.

However, these celebrations often pass unnoticed in national media, while festivals in metro cities receive wide coverage. This reinforces the feeling of being culturally sidelined, despite the Northeast being one of India’s most culturally diverse and unique regions.

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Changing the Narrative: What Can Be Done?

1. Mainstream media must step up. News outlets need to ensure fair and consistent coverage of the Northeast, not just during emergencies but as part of regular programming.
2. Social media can amplify local voices. When national media is silent, local journalists, bloggers, and influencers from the region can bring stories to light. Every post counts.
3. Educational reforms should include more about the Northeast’s history and culture in school curriculums to foster awareness from a young age.
4. Policy makers and leaders must advocate for balanced representation and invest in infrastructure that improves communication between the Northeast and the rest of the country.

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Conclusion: One Nation, Every Voice

India’s strength lies in its unity amid diversity. But unity cannot exist without visibility. The Northeast is not a fringe region — it is the beating heart of India, rich in natural beauty, culture, and potential.

It’s time for national media to reflect this reality, and for the rest of India to listen, support, and celebrate the Northeast just like any other part of the country. Because every voice matters, and every region belongs.

Let’s build an India where Assam’s floods matter as much as Mumbai’s rains, and where a Bihu dance is celebrated just as widely as Diwali.