Mizoram annual plan 2007-08, finalised at Rs 850 crore

New Delhi, Feb 9 (UNI) The annual plan outlay for Mizoram for the year 2007-08, was finalised at Rs 850 crore here today, at a meeting between Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga.

Addressing the meeting, Mr Ahluwalia said the state has achieved significant progress in the sectors of road transport, power, education and health.

Over 94 per cent of villages have been connected with approach roads and 98.6 per cent of villages have been electrified, he said adding, during tenth plan period expenditure realisation is good.

It was pointed out that state should give priority to natural resource management and empowerment of women.

Attention was also drawn to the prevalence of drug abuse and HIV.

Members of the Planning Commission also suggested the state should encourage dairy farming and strengthen agricultural research.

The Chief Minister said the state has been pursuing a comprehensive fiscal reform programme, which includes revision of user charges and duties.

He said number of cost cutting measures have also been taken to reduce expenditure.

He added efforts are being made to reduce transmission and distribution losses in the power sector, improve rural connectivity and provide safe drinking water to rural habitations.

Improvement of education and health facilities in rural areas would also be a priority for the eleventh plan period. To promote economic stability food processing and Bamboo processing would be taken on top priority, he further added.

UNI