Rio calls for tapping NE potential
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio has described the North Eastern region as not just a collection of individual States, but a powerhouse of untapped potential with unique opportunities.
The chief minister, who is also president for the conclave, made the remark at the 1st North Eastern States Chamber of Commerce & Industry Business Conclave held at Niathu Resort, Chümoukedima Monday.
In his address, Rio highlighted the unique opportunities presented by the Northeast’s geographical and cultural interconnectedness which was positioned as a strategic player at the crossroads of India and Southeast Asia.
“We are fortunate to be strategically located at the crossroads of India and Southeast Asia. The Act East Policy provides us with a golden opportunity to tap into the immense potential of trade and investment. Let us come together to explore innovative ways to leverage this policy for the benefit of our region,” Rio said.
He, and called for unlocking the vast potential of tourism industry as the region boasts of picturesque landscapes, culturally rich heritage, warm and welcoming hospitality that held boundless potential to captivate visitors from around the globe. He termed the event organised by the Confederation of North East States Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CoNESCCI) and hosted by Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) as a significant milestone in the collective journey of the North-eastern states toward economic progress and collaboration.
He highlighted the pivotal role played by commerce and industry in national development, underscoring the potential for growth through mutual cooperation.
He further called for responsible utilisation of the Northeast’s natural resources and promoting tourism while at the same time, benefiting local communities. He urged upon participants at the conclave to actively network and collaborate, identify areas where strengths could be leveraged collectively and put out a united effort to drive economic progress in the region.
“Let us identify areas where we can complement each other’s strengths and create a roadmap for future cooperation. I invite you to actively participate in discussions, forge alliances, and champion innovative solutions that will steer our region towards unprecedented economic progress. Let this conclave serve as the launching pad for a new era of prosperity and growth in the Northeast,” he said.
He also addressed the special provisions regarding land and resources under Article 371 (A) of the Constitution of India, stressing creation of a conducive environment for external investments.
He also mentioned that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) had on March 24, 2014 adopted a resolution for establishment of NSDZ after thorough consultations with tribal hohos, civil society organisations (CSOs) at the district and state levels. Rio outlined plans to relax land laws, establish land banks, and introduce mechanisms to boost investors’ confidence, particularly in the foothill areas, in line with the NSDZ initiative adopted in 2014.
In this regard, Rio informed the gathering that a Ministerial Committee headed by him and a High Powered Committee headed by chief secretary J. Alam were formed on September 6, 2023 to review existing state laws, orders and instructions with a view to amending them so as to make the Nagaland Special Development Zone (NSDZ) project viable and effective, and finally bring about a masterplan for the NSDZ for effective implementation.
Concluding his speech, Rio pledged full support for the region’s economic growth, highlighting the significance of interdependence, teamwork, and collaborative partnerships. He encouraged the North-eastern states to contribute to India’s growth and called for platforms and opportunities for the region’s youth to participate in the nation-building process.
Delivering his speech as special guest, National Traders Welfare Board (NTWB) chairman Sunil Jeevrajji Singhi stated the board aimed to identify policy measures to achieve the object of welfare of traders and their employees, suggest simplifications in the acts and rules applicable to traders, make recommendations to reduce compliance burden of traders, and improve access to funds for traders.
In his keynote address, CoNESCCI convener and Assam Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Rupam Goswami conveyed appreciation to CNCCI chairman Dr Khekugha Muru for taking all the pain to bring all chambers in the region together and expressed joy and enthusiasm by attending the conclave.
He also termed Rio as the “stalwart” of the Northeast and “tall leader” of India.
Goswami emphasised on growing together and capturing the business of South East Asian countries and said that the conclave was held to unite the entire Northeast.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Kekhrieno Mor and welcome speech delivered by CNCCI chairman and CoNESCCI co-convenor Dr Khekugha Muru.
Highlights of the programme included inaugural song by Nagagenous and a special song by HarmoniX, while concluding remarks were delivered by CNCCI treasurer Mahesh Agarwal.
The programme also witnessed unveiling of the CoNESCCI logo by chief minister who was also accompanied by a host of legislators. The conclave will conclude on September 20.