Agartala: April 07: On Monday, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha attended a high-level task force meeting organized by the Ministry of DoNER, where the focus was on formulating strategic roadmaps for industrial development in the North Eastern states. The meeting, chaired by DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, was held via video conference from Delhi and addressed several key areas such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and investment opportunities in the eight states of the North Eastern region.
Dr. Saha emphasized the need for a comprehensive marketing policy for agricultural products in the North East to enhance the region’s agricultural output. He proposed the development of strategic plans for setting up industries, including urea fertilizer factories, bamboo-based industries, and rubber industries. The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of establishing edible oil factories, promoting medicinal plant cultivation, and expanding the technology and medical sectors in the region.
Additionally, Dr. Saha suggested setting up modern mills for fragrant black khasa rice, promoting organic farming, and building infrastructure for the storage of agricultural products. He also stressed the need for the application of scientific methods in banana processing and the establishment of rice husk processing units.
A major part of the discussion was focused on the development of the tourism industry. Dr. Saha called for the creation of a North-East Tourist Circuit to increase revenue and promote the region’s tourism potential. He also advocated for better connectivity, including the expansion of air services, safety measures for tourists, and the training of local guides.
Minister Scindia recommended the use of digital mapping technology to boost agricultural production, value addition of agricultural products, and the promotion of these products through public-private partnership (PPP) models. He also highlighted the importance of preserving and marketing unique products from the eight states.