CM demands implementation of Shukla Committee report

Agartala, Jul 3: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar has demanded to consider the Shukla Committee report for holistic development of Northeastern states while urging Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to take necessary steps to allocate funds for early implementation of the recommendations.

In a written speech on the occasion of releasing NE Vision 2020 in Delhi, Mr Sarkar maintained that lack of proper infrastructure, insufficient allocation of funds for various developmental schemes, lack of adequate employment opportunities and poor agricultural growth were complicating the situation in the region, which led to unrest and tension.

He stressed on prompt implementation of transport projects for proper connectivity of the region and development of tourism, trade and commerce and good governance.

Mr Sarkar highlighted that inadequate allocation of funds to the North Eastern Council might deter translate Vision 2020 into reality and stated that enhancement of budget allocation to NEC according to requirements under this Vision would help expedite the progress of work.

Demanding reorientation of Look East Policy, he said, ''We don't find any affirmative action from the Centre to strengthen bonds with Northeast's neighbouring countries like Bangladesh.'' The Look East Policy had to be prioritised to provide due importance to Bangladesh to ensure steady development of Northeastern states, he added.

UNI