North Eastern Region of India is predominantly rural, with an abundance of natural resources and a humongous untapped potential in agricultural sectors like horticulture, floriculture, medicinal and aromatic plants, livestock etc. Biodiversity, congenial climate for agriculture, high quality fruits, vegetables, spices, bamboo, tea and host of other crops with very low use of agro-chemicals indicate colossal prospects for organic farming. In the move from largely subsistence cultivation to a surplus economy with the emergence of commercial crop cultivation, private entrepreneurs can be encouraged to set up storage, distribution and marketing infrastructure such as a cold-storage chain along major arterial highways. This is critical for exploiting the horticulture potential of the region and bringing perishables speedily to marketing hubs. Public private partnerships, investments and infrastructure development will act as a catalyst for economic and social growth of the eight states comprising this region. As voluminous drives for growth and development appear, it is of utmost importance that the region, as a collective identity, embarks on a vibrant journey to realize the dreams of a better future. This prophecy can be realized only through the combined effort of all stakeholders.
"Having regard to such pivotal importance, ICFA has taken the initiative to launch a Working Group to support the north east in its endeavor to contribute to the economic resurgence of the home region as well as to the development of the rest of the country".
The WG is chaired by Mr. PL Thanga, Member Secretary - Mizoram Planning Board and Co-Chaired by Dr. Anis Ansari, IAS (Retd.), Chairman CARD. The working group will delineate opportunities and attempts to provide new insights to the ongoing interventions to raise the north east of India to higher levels of inclusive economic development.
