IMPHAL, December 20: The State is doing its best to develop Information Technology and Tourism sectors, divulged Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh underlining the growing importance of the two sectors.
He was speaking at an awareness programme on Information Technology Special Economic Zone (IT-SEZ) under the theme `Road Show IT-SEZ Manipur at Imphal Hotel, North AOC today.
The programme was organised by the department of Information Technology in association with FALTA-SEZ under the aegis of Ministry of Commerce and Industries.
Claiming that the bad law and order situation in the North Eastern States of the country was the chief factor keeping foreign and national investors at bay, the Chief Minister asserted that the situation has now relatively improved.
He said the public is against violence and understands without peace there cannot be development.
Similarly, militant groups operating in the State have also realised that peace is the need of the hour and are showing willingness to give up arms and join the mainstream, the Chief Minister observed.
Given these facts, he observed peace is eminent in Manipur. He further guaranteed that entrepreneurs need not worry and make their investment in the State.
Noting that the IT-SEZ and IIT campus in the State are lagging behind when compared to other global campuses, he assured that maximum efforts will be put to develop them to the best level.
Underscoring the ceaseless efforts of both the Centre and State governments undertaken like the process to provide facility of visa on arrival for foreigners, establishment of Integrated Check Post at Moreh border town, he said efforts are on to promote and develop the State into a world class tourist destination.
Assuring that the establishment of the IT-SEZ will serve as a booster to the prosperity of the State, he appealed to the people to extend their co-operation in the government initiative.
Commerce and Industry minister Govindas Konthoujam, said that even as Manipur is a small state it has huge potential in the IT sector.
He expressed his confidence that the sector will not only create job opportunities but also improve the living standard of the people thereby playing a vital role in bringing peace and development in the State.
The event was also attended by parliamentary secretary (IT) Victor Keishing, chief secretary PC Lawmkunga, zonal development commissioner, FALTA-SEZ, KolkataSanjeev Nandwani, principal secretary (IT) Dr. Rajesh Kumar, and prinicipal secretary (Commerce and Industries) L. Lakher. The proposed IT-SEZ will be established at 10.85 hectors of land near Mantripukri IT park.