Kalam suggests Meghalaya govt to set up three SEZs

Shillong, Mar 16 (UNI) In his historic presidential address to 60 Meghalaya lawmakers, President A P J Abdul Kalam today suggested the state government to set up three exclusive special economic zones in Meghalaya which would create additional revenue of Rs 2,500 crore for the state with a direct employment potential of over 25,000 people.

''The SEZs will attract pharmacy, biotechnology and hotel industries,'' the President told lawmakers.

Dr Kalam suggested the creation of an SEZ here for herbal, aromatic and ginger varieties, leading to the production of drugs and aromatic products for export.

Another SEZ could be located in such a way that it attracts tourists in places surrounded by waterfalls with a museum of tribal cultures along the lines of Chhattishgarh, an orchid floriculture farm and a science and technology park, the President said.

The third economic zone, Dr Kalam said, could be centred on the mining of special material and associated products.

''These economic zones are definitely possible in Meghalaya where peace is prevailing and people are tourist friendly,'' Dr Kalam said.

The President also stressed on the need for having a full-fledged airport for landing modern jet aircrafts in the state.

''With the growth of technology in instrument landing system, it should be possible to create an all weather airport in Meghalaya,'' he said.

UNI