FICCI upbeat about economic development in Assam

GUWAHATI: A delegation of the FICCI Northeast Advisory Council by Chairman, Ranjit Barthakur, & Co Chair, Rudra Chatterjee, called on the Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and held detailed discussions on issues pertaining to economic development of Assam, the opportunities and the way forward. Detailed presentations were made on Connectivity, Agro-Forestry, Climate Change, tourism, and health change to the Chief Minister and Senior officials of the Government of Assam.

Ranjit Barthakur, while speaking about the potential for sustainable growth in the region, said "seamless connectivity within the region and with neighboring countries is critical for development of the region". Laying stress on the need to develop riverine connectivity he said, "Developing the riverine system for regional transport as well as to connect with Chittagong and Mongla ports will go a long way in fulfilling our economic goals."

FICCI also proposed that a northeast border ring road should be developed connecting all the states of the region, to provide faster connectivity within the region and access to markets in the neighbouring countries. Barthakur requested the Chief Minister to take this up with the union Government.

Speaking on the need for conserving and leveraging biodiversity of the region, Barthakur said "future efforts for economic progress should not only be mindful of conservation needs, it could potentially be led by conservation and re-wilding". A detailed presentation was made on sustainable development of rural economy, based on natural and biotic assets of the state.

Rudra Chatterjee, MD Luxmi Tea Company and Co-Chair of FICCI Northeast Advisory Council, highlighted the opportunity for making Assam a leader of branded teas. He also highlighted a the opportunities for agro-forestry, promotion of certified timber and the furniture industry in Assam.

Chatterjee, added, "We are highly enthused with the positive response from the Chief Minister and his team". In addition to this, detailed presentations were made on Tea, Tourism and strengthening healthcare in the state. To give a boost to the tourism industry, it was suggested that Assam tourism should work with the other state Governments of the region to create integrated circuits and position them as Asian Saffari.

On tea it was suggested that the focus should be on value addition, exports, and product diversification. It was also suggested to incentivize use of renewable energy in the Tea Industry. A presentation was also made on strengthening the health care delivery system through technological interventions, stated a press release.

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