Agro, Food processing are growth drivers of NE

Kolkata, Jan 31: Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), a trade body, has urged the Centre to focus on Agro, Food Processing, Tourism and IT sectors for growth of the NE region.

A report prepared by the Chamber on "Economic Development in the North Eastern states" was recently submitted to Union Minister for Development of NE Region Manishankar Aiyar.

The report suggested that an agro-food processing park may be set up near Guwahati and required infrastructure should be developed.

Related infrastructure for developing necessary linkages of the park, which include small cold storages in production areas in collaboration with farmers.

ICC has also identified tea as the major growth catalyst of the region. The report said, ''The region's economy largely depend on tea. Productivity of the tea estates are declining. However, the industry is burdened with social responsibilities. The tea industry is suffering from low productivity.'' The report suggested launch of a special export promotion scheme and an one time rotating fund to help the tea industry.

The report has also put forth several recommendations for the growth of tourism and IT.

UNI