IMPHAL, May 22: `The states of north eastern India have had ample opportunities but due to economic isolation, Manipur has remained backward as compared to other states of India.` Chief Minister O Ibobi said in his speech during the inaugural function of a two day `International Conference on India`™s Look East Policy `“ Act East and South East Asia: Beyond Borders`™`™`™
The program held at theCentenary Hall of Manipur University was organised by Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial Development (CRRID), Chandigarh in collaboration with MU.
He exuded confidence that the GDP growth of the State will rise to 9% by the year 2020. India is on way to become one of the business centres on account of the NE states of India once they are made the gateway to South East Asia. He added that during the 90s Myanmar was not considered as significant in trade but now Myanmar is considered as one big opportunities for foreign trade with India.
He said that air connectivity is effective in Manipur whereas road and rail connectivity is still a problem.
Manipur has tremendous potentail in tourism sector. It also can do well in food production, he added.
He said that the state has natural beauties such as the Loktak Lake, and the captivating natural landscape of the hill districts. the state now has world class medical facilities, vibrant culture and sports, he further said.
He said visa on arrival facilities has also been made available for Myanmar citizen coming to avail medical facilities in the state.
Because of economic isolation and poor land connectivity, the state has suffered, asserted the CM and said that the need is for developmental works to be prioritised.
He voiced optimism that the two day international conference would suggest ways to bring development and uplift of the state.
Giving a brief background of the conference, professor of CRRID Chandigarh, Sucha Singh Gill called for removal of economic isolation of the NE region.
He said that investment from potential investors are the key to development.
He said important issues such as water scarcity, land connectivity by rail and road and how these will promote international trade through the NE states of India will also be discussed minutely.
Manipur has potential for development in the horticulture sector, as fruits like oranges and pineapples are massively produced. However because of weak land transport facilities, the products are not able to reach beyond the state.
He said said that the conference will also discuss ways and means to bring up the per capita income of the state.
The conference will be attended by delegates from 8 different countries.
The inaugural function of the conference was attended by Vice Chancellor of Manipur University Prof H Nandakumar Sarma; Professor of Strategic Studies, Centre for Policy Research, New Delhi Brahma Chellaney; Executive Chairman, CRRID Chandigarh Dr Rashpal Malhotra and also Member of Lok Sabha Murli Manohar Joshi was attended as president of the function.