'Ind policy to speed up industrialisation'

Itanagar, May 26: Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu has regretted that Arunachal Pradesh was economically lagging behind Meghalaya and terrorism-affected Asom.

''Despite being free of terrorism, Arunachal Pradesh could not advance due to lack of industrial and tourism initiatives,'' Mr Khandu said while addressing a public meeting at Lumla in Tawang district yesterday.

To counter the effect he said policies would be announced within two years to give a new thrust to development.

He announced his priorities as 'reiteration actions' to revamp the public distribution system, tap hydropower and earn approximately Rs 6000 crores by 2020 and revive border trade by constructing roads.

Mr Khandu called for the protection of flora and fauna of the hills and advocated a policy at the village level to plant five trees against each tree felled.

Forest and Environment Minister N Tingkhatra warned against deforestation and suggested adopting 'Apna Van' programme, cane farming and afforestation programme. He also assured to set up a high-tech high altitude nursery in the area.

UNI