The Science & Technology (S&T) Sector of the North Eastern Council (NEC) plays a catalytic role in promoting technology-driven development across the North Eastern Region through strategic partnerships with premier institutions such as NESAC, ISRO, IIT Guwahati, CSIR-NEIST, NIPER, ERNET and NECTAR. The Sector supports the deployment of emerging technologies, geospatial applications, innovation ecosystems, digital education, research infrastructure and skill development initiatives. As on 31.03.2026, the Sector is monitoring 56 ongoing projects with a total approved cost of ₹338.33 crore and has successfully completed 113 projects with a cumulative approved cost of ₹227.01 crore. The Sector has also operationalised 48 NESAC Plan of Action projects covering areas such as governance, disaster management, natural resource management and development planning across all eight North Eastern States.

During the year, the Sector achieved several significant milestones, including the establishment of 5G Application Labs in all eight North Eastern States, making the region one of the first in the country to have a coordinated regional 5G innovation ecosystem. Through tele-education and smart classroom initiatives, quality learning opportunities have reached more than one lakh students in remote areas. The Sector also supported the implementation of the NE-SPARKS (North East Students Programme for Awareness, Reach and Knowledge on Space) initiative, under which 786 meritorious students from the North Eastern Region visited premier ISRO facilities and interacted with leading scientists, fostering scientific temper and encouraging careers in STEM disciplines. Through these initiatives, NEC continues to strengthen technology-led inclusive growth, innovation, human resource development and regional cooperation across the North Eastern Region