In a major boost to export perishable items and ensure timely transport of local produce to other parts of the country, the Centre has approved starting of air cargo operation from Dimapur airport. This was announced by Airports Authority of India (AAI) Dimapur airport director, M Zhimo at a meeting of stakeholders on air cargo at Hotel Saramati here on Friday.
Zhimo said the cargo terminal– Common User Domestic Cargo Terminal (CUDCT) had already been constructed but, unfortunately due to pandemic, the airport did not have equipment required like x-ray machine, scanner and other items to process CUDCT and start air cargo operations.
But permission was received from Bureau of Civil Aviation Security on February 22 to start the operation, which Zhimo claimed, was a special consideration given to the State. Stressing that cargo represented a very important part of economy, Zhimo said he was optimistic that this would create a link among the farmers, consumers and airlines.
Delivering a special address, agriculture production commissioner, Y. Kikheto Sema termed 2020-21 as a special year for the State government due to two achievements– setting up of soil testing laboratories in 12 districts and 72 blocks and getting approved for air cargo from the Union civil aviation ministry.
Pointing out that there was no scope for large or medium scale industry in Nagaland, Sema said there was scope only in agri and allied sector, adding that the State had been blessed with a favourable climatic condition, unlike the mainland. However, he said there were hindrances in the land holding system and traditional/primitive ways of cultivation that included jhum and shifting cultivation, which was not economically viable or ecologically sustainable but could not be stopped as all festivals, folklores and folksongs would have no meaning without it.
Hoping that the benefits of air cargo facility and train services would reach the targeted goals, he said the big question was whether the produces would meet the demands.
He suggested focusing on a particular demand in order to capture the market outside the State rather than getting involved in many activities.
In her short speech, Horticulture commissioner & secretary Anenla T Sato appreciated the AAI officials at Dimapur, especially Zhimo, for all the logistical support.
The programme was chaired by horticulture director and mission director of MIDH Dr R Elithung Lotha. This was followed by an interactive session.