Northeast key to ‘Act East’: Dr Jitendra Singh

[Hindustani78]

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu being bid farewell by the Governor of Meghalaya, Shri Ganga Prasad, the Home Minister of Meghalaya, Shri James K. Sangma and others, on his departure, in Shillong on April 17, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu at an event to inaugurate the year long Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi, the Minister for Agriculture, Assam, Shri Atul Bora and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu lighting the lamp to inaugurate the year long Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi, the Minister for Agriculture, Assam, Shri Atul Bora and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu releasing the souvenir at the year long Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi, the Minister for Agriculture, Assam, Shri Atul Bora and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu honouring eminent personality in legal profession from Assam, Justice S.N. Phukan, at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu honouring eminent Social Worker from Assam, Shri D.K. Borthakur, at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu honouring eminent Journalist from Assam, Shri D.N. Chakravarty, at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu honouring noted industrialist from Assam, Shri Chiranjit Chaliha, at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the year long Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the year long Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Assam Agricultural University, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018.

 

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Ministry of Micro,Small & Medium Enterprises
18-April, 2018 19:11 IST
MSME Ministry Sets UP four Technology Centres for North East: Giriraj Singh

Minister of State of MSME Shri Giriraj Singh delivers his address at the UdyamSamvad Workshop.



The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) organised UdyamSamvad Workshop today in which eleven sessions were held with different ministries and financial organizations like Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), SIDBI, ASSOCHAM, CII,FICCI,FISME, PHD Chamber of Commerce and MSME Foundation. Various issues facing entrepreneurs and Startups in North East States of India like accessing credit, handholding for setting up businesses, accessing markets in India and abroad and R&D for refinement of art based products manufactured in the North East were discussed. Minister in his address said that there is urgent need for setting up MSMEs in farming and non-farming sectors in the north East region and the Ministry will play the role of facilitator in order to provide R&D, market access and better designs for MSME products. The Minister further added that Micro industries will be given more support in this region. For this technology centres are being established in Imphal, Dimapur, Tinsukia and Agartala.

Ram Mohan Mishra, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, MSME and Naveen Verma, Secretary DoNER also addressed the gathering.

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The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu visiting the Center for Advanced Civil Engineering Research of the CSIR - North East Institute of Science And Technology, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu visiting the Exhibition Hall at the CSIR - North East Institute of Science And Technology, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2018. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi is also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu at the CSIR - North East Institute of Science And Technology, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2-18. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi, the Minister for Agriculture, Assam, Shri Atul Bora and other dignitaries are also seen.
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The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the gathering at the CSIR - North East Institute of Science And Technology, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2-18.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the gathering at the CSIR - North East Institute of Science And Technology, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2-18.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu addressing the gathering at the CSIR - North East Institute of Science And Technology, in Jorhat, Assam on April 17, 2-18. The Governor of Assam, Shri Jagadish Mukhi and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu being received by the Governor of Assam, Prof. Jagadish Mukhi, the Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal and others, on his arrival, in Guwahati, Assam on April 17, 2018.

 

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The Minister of Tourism and Art & Culture, Nagaland, Shri H. Khehovi Yepthomi calling on the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on April 24, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, Shri N.K. Singh along with the members, chairing a meeting with the Urban Local Bodies and Members of Panchayati Raj Institutions, in Guwahati on April 26, 2018.

The Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, Shri N.K. Singh along with the members, chairing a meeting with the Urban Local Bodies and Members of Panchayati Raj Institutions, in Guwahati on April 26, 2018.

The Minister of Art & Culture of Manipur, Shri L. Jayantakumar Singh calling on the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018.

The Minister of Art & Culture of Manipur, Shri L. Jayantakumar Singh calling on the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018.

The Advisor - I&PR, SCERT and Village Guards, Govt. of Nagaland, Shri Toshi Wungtung calling on the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018.

The Chairman, Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Shri Justice Dinesh Gupta calling on the Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in New Delhi on April 26, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, Shri N.K. Singh along with the members, chairing a meeting with the Autonomous Council of Assam, in Guwahati on April 27, 2018.

The Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, Shri N.K. Singh along with the members, chairing a meeting with the Autonomous Council of Assam, in Guwahati on April 27, 2018.

The Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, Shri N.K. Singh along with the members, at a meeting with the Autonomous Council of Assam, in Guwahati on April 27, 2018.

 

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President's Secretariat
27-April, 2018 19:32 IST
PRESS COMMUNIQUÉ

The President of India is pleased to appoint Prof. Jagdish Mukhi, Governor of Assam to discharge the functions of the Governor of Manipur, in addition to his own duties, during the absence, on leave, of Dr Najma A. Heptulla, Governor of Manipur.



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[Hindustani78]

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma calling on the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, in New Delhi on May 02, 2018.

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma calling on the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, in New Delhi on May 02, 2018.

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma calling on the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, in New Delhi on May 02, 2018.

The Minister of State (I/C) for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Raj Kumar Singh along with the Deputy Chief Minister of Tripura, Shri Jishnu Deb Vurman lighting the lamp at the launch of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Saubhagya Yojana’, in Agartala on May 02, 2018.

The Minister of State (I/C) for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Raj Kumar Singh launching the “Android Mobile Application of TSECL”, at the inauguration of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Saubhagya Yojana’, in Agartala on May 02, 2018. The Deputy Chief Minister of Tripura, Shri Jishnu Deb Vurman is also seen.

The Minister of State (I/C) for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Raj Kumar Singh rewarding the best performing districts for energy efficiency activities, at the inauguration of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Saubhagya Yojana’, in Agartala on May 02, 2018.

The Minister of State (I/C) for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Shri Raj Kumar Singh handing over the certificates to the beneficiaries, at the inauguration of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Saubhagya Yojana’, in Agartala on May 02, 2018. The Deputy Chief Minister of Tripura, Shri Jishnu Deb Vurman is also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry for Development of North-East Region
03-May, 2018 16:52 IST
North Eastern Cultural and Information Centre to come up soon in Delhi: Dr. Jitendra Singh

To act as a hub for cultural-cum- convention centre for activities of North East

The Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that a North Eastern Cultural and Information Centre will come up in Delhi soon. He said this after chairing the review meeting of the “roadmap for implementation of Cabinet Approval of Schemes for North East Council” here today. Secretary, Ministry of Development of Northeastern Region (DoNER) Shri Naveen Verma, Secretary North Eastern Council (NEC) Shri Ram Muivah and senior officials of the ministry were present. The meeting reviewed the progress of various on-going projects in the North East.

As a Central government has been giving priority to the NE region, Dr Jitendra said that this will be a new gift to the people of North East India. He said, the centre will act as a cultural convention and information hub of the northeastern region in Delhi. He said that Centre is being built on 1.32 acre land at Sector-13, Dwarka, New Delhi under the North Eastern Council (NEC) for the purpose of construction of North Eastern Cultural and Information Centre. He said that this Centre will act as a cultural and convention, information hub of the North Eastern Region in Delhi. The Minister said it will have a library-cum-reading room with material on North Eastern Region, an art gallery showcasing the North East, Exhibition hall, Research centre, Sale outlets as well guest houses. He said, currently architecture, design and planning for the project are in process. The project is expected to be completed soon at an estimated cost of Rs. 50-55 crores, he added. He said this Centre will be one of its kind in the country and will be a state-of-the-art project.

Keeping in view the large number of NE students studying in various educational institutes, hostels are being set up for NE students. These hostels are being set up in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and a hostel exclusively for girl students from Northeast in Bengaluru University.

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[Hindustani78]

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma calling on the Minister of State for Tourism (I/C) and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018.

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma calling on the Minister of State for Tourism (I/C) and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Alphons Kannanthanam, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma meeting the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (I/C) and Information & Broadcasting, Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018.

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma along with the Sports Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Banteidor Lyngdoh meeting the Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (I/C) and Information & Broadcasting, Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018.

The Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh chairing the review meeting of the “Roadmap for implementation of Cabinet approval of schemes of the North-Eastern Council (NEC)”, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018. The Secretary, DoNER, Shri Naveen Verma, the Secretary, NEC, Shri Ram Muivah and senior officers of DoNER and NEC are also seen.

The Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh chairing the review meeting of the “Roadmap for implementation of Cabinet approval of schemes of the North-Eastern Council (NEC)”, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018. The Secretary, DoNER, Shri Naveen Verma and senior officers of DoNER and NEC are also seen.

The Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal calling on the Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018.

The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio calling on the Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, in New Delhi on May 03, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Finance
14-May, 2018 19:14 IST
Two day Regional Conference on “Physical and Social Infrastructure for Regional Development” begins in Guwahati

Governor of Assam emphasized on bridging the regional disparity by investing in physical and soft infrastructure

The Governor of Assam, Prof. Jagdish Mukhi inaugurated the two day Seminar being organized by the Ministry of Finance on the theme of “Physical and Social Infrastructure for Regional Development” in Guwahati, Assam today. The Seminar is organized by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India in collaboration with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI).

In his Inaugural Address, the Governor of Assam said, “The Government is putting a lot of focus on the infrastructure development for the all-round development of the Region. The theme of the Seminar “Physical and Social Infrastructure for Regional Development” provides an opportunity to do an in depth analysis of the core infrastructure related issues of the North Eastern States.” He added that Assam is at the heart of the Centre’s Act East Policy and the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has put Assam in resurgent growth momentum.

Speaking further on the occasion, the Governor of Assam, Prof. Mukhi said that the North East also has the best reputation of being the hub for industrial communication due to its proximity to the South Asian countries. He said that successful Regional Development hinges on connecting remote areas through physical infrastructure as well as by making greater investment in social infrastructure including in health and education. He said that taking into account the relatively high female labour force participation in regions such as the North East, priority needs to be given also to policy efforts ensuring greater participation of women in the development process. Prof Mukhi said that such approaches can help take forward the goal of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ (collective efforts for inclusive growth) to its legitimate conclusion.

In his Concluding Remarks, the Governor emphasized that different initiatives like UDAN, Single Window Clearance for Trade, Inland Waterways and efficient Private Sector participation etc. must be utilized for the maximum development of the region.

On this occasion, a detailed presentation on AIIB was given by Miss Laurel Ostfield, Head of Communications, AIIB. She talked about the importance of what we do now that will determine the future world, we and our children will live in. Talking about AIIB’s core values, “Lean, clean and green”, she said that the goals for a greener and cleaner tomorrow have been set. She also talked about the shareholding structure of AIIB. India is the Founding Member and the second Largest Shareholder as well as a big beneficiary of AIIB.

In his Special Address, Shri Ravi Capoor, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Assam pointed-out that from a historical perspective, North East was a very prosperous area in the pre-independence time. It was possible due to the fact that excellent trade routes were there during that time. He said that Assam exported tea, oil, timber and coal to the rest of the world by various rail and water routes like the Brahmaputra River then. Over 50 years in the post-independence time, river routes were completely stopped. In the recent years, Shri Capoor said that efforts have been made to make it operational again. He said that its high time for us to look for better projects for connectivity so that development can take place. It’s also time to rejuvenate rail lines to different neighborhood Asian countries. Only then, we can boost our connectivity and link it to development, Shri Capoor concluded.

Earlier speaking at the event, Shri. P. D Sona, Principal Secretary (Tourism), Government of Arunachal Pradesh said that any policy regarding the North East has to take into account the various challenges being faced by the Region, and sought to take forward the HIRA policy (of Highways, Internet, Railways and Airways). He wanted Multilateral Finance Institutions like the AIIB to take-up the innovative projects in the region, including the ones that use clean and green energy. He added that the biggest concern of the North Eastern region is lack of digital connectivity along with other issues. He urged the AIIB to have a clear agenda regarding the development of the North Eastern Region.

Prof Amitabh Kundu, Distinguished Fellow, RIS pointed-out the need to make the right kind of investments in the right kind of regions to reduce regional disparities. Adding to Prof Kundu's remarks, Mr Seshadri Chari, Member, Governing Council, RIS said that despite huge allocation of funds, some areas remain poor, adding that there is a need to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor regions.

After the Inaugural Ceremony, a Session on the topic of “Infrastructure needs in Aspirational Areas” was organized in which various panelists discussed on myriad issues pertaining to the topic. Prof. Sebastian Morris from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad gave the lead presentation. He discussed about the agriculture and its link to Regional Development as well as about human development and social movements.

Shri. P. D Sona, Principal Secretary (Tourism), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Ravi Capoor, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Assam, Shri Manab Majumdar, Deputy Secretary General (DDG), FICCI, Prof. Amitabh Kundu, distinguished Fellow, RIS, Miss Laurel Ostfield, Head of Communications, AIIB, Shri Seshadri Chari, Member of the Governing Council, RIS, and many other dignitaries were present in the Inaugural Function.

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Ministry of Finance
14-May, 2018 18:49 IST
Roll out of e-Way Bill system for intra-State movement of goods in the States of Assam & Rajasthan

As per the decision of the GST Council, e-Way Bill system for inter-State movement of goods has been rolled out from 01st April, 2018. As on 13th May, 2018, e-Way Bill system for intra-State movement of goods has been rolled out in the States/ Union Territory of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Puducherry. E-Way Bills are getting generated successfully and till 13th May, 2018 more than four crore and fifteen lakh e-Way Bills have been successfully generated which includes more than one crore e-Way Bills for intra-State movement of goods.

It is hereby informed that e-Way Bill system for intra-State movement of goods would be implemented in Assam from 16th May, 2018 & Rajasthan from 20th May, 2018.

With the roll-out of e-Way Bill system in these States/ Union Territory, it is expected that trade and industry will be further facilitated insofar as the transport of goods is concerned, thereby eventually paving the way for a nation-wide single e-Way Bill system. Trade and industry and transporters located in these States/ Union Territory may obtain registration/ enrolment on e-Way Bill portal namely https://www.ewaybillgst.gov.in at the earliest without waiting for the last date.

 

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Ministry of Finance
15-May, 2018 17:23 IST
Time for a dedicated think tank for the North Eastern Region (NER) at the Central Government level;

Need for thrust on Water and Waterways Strength in the Region, Improving Economic Corridors, Digital Technology as the Future of Connectivity, Addressing Infrastructure Deficit as per Local Demand and Needs, Encouraging Grassroots R&D Facilities, Strengthening Regional Value Chains, and Focusing on Clean and Green Energy among others : Outcome of the two day Regional Conference organized by the Ministry of Finance in Guwahati

“Instead of connecting different cities and urban centers in the remote and less-developed areas, the ideal approach should be to develop it in the framework of corridors for regional development. The time has come that there should be a dedicated think tank for the North Eastern Region (NER) at the Central Government level”, said Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Director General, Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), today on the final day of the two day Regional Conference on the theme of “Physical and Social Infrastructure for Regional Development” being organized by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India in Guwahati, Assam.



Discussing on the salient takeaways from the consultation of the two day, Prof. Chaturvedi said, “There were several important recommendations discussed in the two day Conference which are essential for physical and social infrastructure in the North Eastern Region. The First Point was low integration due to the land-locked nature of the Region. Historically, the North East had strong trade linkages with the countries in South-East Asia and was a prosperous Region. Post-Independence, the connectivity links were broken due to the creation of independent nations in the South Asian region. As a result, the NER became land-locked which stalled the pace of development. However, with fresh initiatives by the Government, there is a greater recognition of opening of the arteries of connectivity both within NER and with neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, etc. Emphasis will be made on Education, Health and Skill Development in the Region. In addition, Horticulture, Tourism, Food Processing, use of Bamboo and Made in North-East will be developed through five Mission Mode Projects in a time-bound manner.”



Prof. Chaturvedi also added several other important takeaways like water and waterways strength in the Region, improving economic corridors, digital technology as the future of connectivity, addressing infrastructure deficit as per local demand and needs, encouraging grassroots R&D facilities, strengthening regional value chains, and focusing on Clean and Green Energy among others.



The Valedictory Session of the two day Conference was chaired by Prof. Bhupen Sarmah, Director, Omeo Kumar Das Institute of Social Change and Development. Shri P R Jaishankar, Chief General Manager, Indian Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL), Shri Dipok Kumar Barthakur, Vice-Chairman, State Innovation & Transformation Aayog and many other dignitaries were present in the occasion.

Before the Valedictory Session, there was Session on “Creating Social Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth” which was chaired by Shri Dinesh Sharma, Former Special Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs. Shri Shyam Jagannathan, Commissioner & Secretary, Finance Department, Shri A. K. Yadav, Chief Administrative Officer, Northeast Frontier Railway, Mr. Halla Maher Qaddumi, Senior Water Economist, The World Bank, Shri Sabyasachi Dutta, Executive Director, Asian Confluence and Dr. Otojit Kshetrimayum, Associate Fellow and Coordinator, Centre for North East India, V. V. Giri National Labour Institute were present on the occasion as panelists.

The two day Regional Conference was organized by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India in collaboration with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). This was 5thsuch Conference in a build-up to the 3rd Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of AIIB which is going to be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai on 25th and 26th June, 2018. Three more such Regional Conferences are going to be held at Bhopal, Pune and Mumbai leading to the final culmination to the 3rd Annual Conference.




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[Hindustani78]

The Governor of Mizoram, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Nirbhay Sharma calling on the Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, in New Delhi on May 17, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Vice President's Secretariat
23-May, 2018 13:41 IST
There is an immense investment potential in Northeastern region and ASEAN countries should make it a corridor for development: Vice President

Corridors of connectivity should be converted into corridors of economic growth;

Anything can be achieved through hard work, perseverance and right attitude;

Addresses at 2nd Convocation of National Institute of Technology, Nagaland

The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that there is an immense investment potential in the Northeastern region and ASEAN countries should not be allowed to miss that opportunity. He was addressing the 2nd Convocation of National Institute of Technology, in Dimapur, Nagaland today. The Governor of Nagaland, Shri Padmanabha Acharya and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The Vice President said that Nagaland, a state, rich in its traditional heritage is growing fast and setting up of NIT is an indication of the growing importance of this region. The real strength of any academic institute lies in maintaining high standards of excellence through its teaching and top quality research, he added.

The Vice President said that North-Eastern region is endowed with abundant natural resources, but difficult terrain, dispersed habitations, poor connectivity and inadequate infrastructure have been obstacles in realizing its true potential. He further said that improving connectivity is most important to bring the North East region into the mainstream and air connectivity is also vital for promoting tourism, business and people-to-people contact. We strongly believe that the corridors of connectivity should be converted into corridors of economic growth with a symbiotic market model of development, he added.

The Vice President quoted as stated by Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world".

The Vice President said that the knowledge and technical skills acquired by the students will form the main pillars of their professional career. But the life skills acquired by them and the values of ethics, morality, integrity and compassion are equally important in navigating through the challenges and contributing to building an inclusive New India, he added.

The Vice President advised the students to remember that their education does not end with the acquisition of a degree or by securing employment. He further said that learning is a life-long process and education is meant to enlighten them, develop them into a holistic individual, strengthen their character and inculcate the qualities required to face any challenging situation with a sense of equanimity. Their character is formed by the manner in which they surmount the challenges and they will experience highs and lows of life, but never lose sight of the goals they set for themselves, he added.

Following is the text of Vice President’s address:

“I deem it a matter of privilege and honor to inaugurate the First Convocation of the newly established National Institute of Technology in Nagaland. It is indeed a major milestone in the history of technical education in Nagaland. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire NIT family for inviting me as the Chief Guest for the First Convocation.

I am very pleased to be here to join you in celebrating this wonderful occasion.

Nagaland, a state, rich in its traditional heritage is growing fast. The setting up of NIT is an indication of the growing importance of this region.

Apart from NIT, I am glad that an Institute of Communication & Information Technology (ICIT) was established by the Government of India at Mokokchung with the assistance of World Bank. I am told that ICIT is also offering skill development courses and organizes Technology Transfer Programmes for the Rural Community. The institute must constantly upgrade the skills of the youth by offering new courses in tune with the demands of the local industries. I am told that the School of Engineering and Technology started by Nagaland University, is offering degree level programmes in Engineering including Management.

I admire the natural beauty of NIT's location and I am sure that this will become one of the leading centres of technical education in the country.Admittedly, it is doing appreciably well in catering to educational needs of students in Nagaland and the neighboring states.

I foresee that NIT Nagaland, being a technical Institute of national importance, will play a significant role in filling the industrial gap in Nagaland, by bringing industries, the corporate sector and technocrats from other parts of our country to Nagaland for its societal growth and uplift. I am sure, the students passing out from the portals of NIT will not only be well qualified engineers, but many of them will also become successful entrepreneurs in their chosen fields.

Students from this State and other North-Eastern states should take full advantage of this institute in acquiring world class technical education.

I am pleased to know of the efforts of this institute in reserving home state quota completely for the Naga students. I wish NIT Nagaland to grow and succeed in all its efforts and reach the greatest heights.

The real strength of any academic institute lies in maintaining high standards of excellence through its teaching and top quality research. This can be achieved only through dedication, discipline and determination of the faculty and students. There should not be any compromise on quality of teaching and research.

I would like to extend my congratulations to all the graduates on the completion of your education here. You all should be proud of your accomplishments. Seeing all of you today, looking lively and energetic, I wish to remind you that this is a big moment in your lives. I know that you all must be excited and eager to enter into a new world.

The knowledge and technical skills acquired by you will form the main pillars of your professional career. But the life skills acquired by you and the values of ethics, morality, integrity and compassion are equally important in navigating through the challenges and contributing to building an inclusive New India.

Sisters and brothers, the country is on the threshold of emerging as one of the leading economies in the world in the coming years. The country’s economy is projected to grow at 7.3 per cent or 7.4 per cent in 2019 by different global agencies. With 65 per cent of the people below the age of 35 years, the country needs to tap and convert this huge human resource capital into a demographic dividend and spur the economic growth.

In fact, a recent news report mentioned that a study by a global executive search firm forecast a talent deficit of 85 million workers by 2030 across developing and developed economies. It said that India was the only major economy with potential for talent surplus by 2030 and might even challenge America’s position in technology, media and telecommunications sector. So dear students, you will have plenty of opportunities as the country’s economy garners further momentum in the coming years.

I am sure that all of you will make the best use of your skills and talents to serve the society and the country. As stated by Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa, "education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world". Be the change agents for ushering in a better future for every citizen of the country.

Dear students, remember that your education does not end with the acquisition of a degree or by securing employment. Learning is a life-long process. Education is meant to enlighten you, develop you into a holistic individual, strengthen your character and inculcate the qualities required to face any challenging situation with a sense of equanimity.

You are going to commence a new chapter. First and foremost requirement is to set clear-cut goals. Second is to strive relentlessly to achieve those goals. Anything can be achieved through hard work, perseverance and by adopting the right attitude. Your character is formed by the manner in which you surmount the challenges. You will experience highs and lows of life, but never lose sight of the goals you set for yourselves.

Success largely depends largely upon the ability to execute efficiently any task on hand.

Graduation day is a bit like looking into a kaleidoscope. It is full of pictures jumbled together—images from the past and those envisioning the future.

You are now armed with one of the most important tools needed to forge your path ahead. It is not the degree itself that counts — it is about what you have learnt along the way and what you intend to do with the education you have received in your journey till today. Be true to yourself and remain committed to the values of honesty and integrity.

Today you have achieved a milestone in your career. Remember that it was made possible by the wonderful support of your families and the encouragement of your teachers. I would like you all to acknowledge and appreciate the support of all those who made it happen.

North-Eastern region is endowed with abundant natural resources, but difficult terrain, dispersed habitations, poor connectivity and inadequate infrastructure have been obstacles in realizing its true potential. There is an immense investment potential in the Northeastern region and ASEAN countries should not be allowed to miss that opportunity. In this, the Central and State Governments will have to work hand-in-hand. Improving Connectivity is most important to bring the North East region into the mainstream. Air connectivity is also vital for promoting tourism, business and people-to-people contact.

We strongly believe that the corridors of connectivity should be converted into corridors of economic growth with a symbiotic market model of development.

Finally, I would like to congratulate you all on your success and wish an extremely satisfying and successful career to each one of you.



JAI HIND!”

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry for Development of North-East Region
31-May, 2018 18:58 IST
Northeast students' hostels soon in JNU, Bangalore University: Dr Jitendra Singh

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh said here today that Northeast students' hostels will soon become functional in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi and Bangalore University.

Dr Jitendra Singh said that considering that a large number of students from the North Eastern States undertake courses in Bangalore University, it was decided to have a hostel in in its campus to meet their accommodation demands. He said that two years back a piece of land was acquired from the Bangalore University management and the foundation stone of the building was laid. The construction work is nearing completion and expected to become functional shortly, he added.

Mentioning about the another hostel to be built in the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Dr Jitendra Singh said that a piece of land had been acquired within the campus of the Jawaharlal Nehru University. The building is also expected to be completed in the near future, he added.

The cost of construction of both these projects has been borne by the NEC / Ministry of Northeast (DoNER). He said, the modalities of admission to these hostels will be worked out in due course of time.

Dr Jitendra Singh said he had suggested to keep 75% accommodation reserved for the inmates from the eight North Eastern States in these hostels. This, he said, will offer an opportunity to the students from the Northeast to engage in a healthy social and cultural mingling with students from other parts of the country and at the same time, this might also help in generating some revenue in managing the hostel.

Meanwhile, Dr Jitendra Singh informed that a piece of land has been acquired at Rohini, Delhi where the construction of another hostel for students from Northeast will be undertaken, which will cater primarily to the students from Delhi University At the same time, he said, land spread over more than three acres has also been acquired at a prime location at Dwarka in Delhi where a Northeast Convention cum Cultural Centre is proposed to be brought up.



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[Hindustani78]

Ministry for Development of North-East Region
04-June, 2018 19:37 IST
DoNER Minister Dr Jitendra Singh moots 'Make in Northeast'

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh has mooted "Make in Northeast" initiative, as a follow-up to the "Make in India" initiative inspired by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. He also offered to collaborate with all the stakeholders to give each of the eight States of the region an exclusive identity of its own, based on the unique product identified with each of these States.

Associated Chambers of Commerce of India (ASSOCHAM) Secretary General, Sh D.S. Rawat called on Dr Jitendra Singh here today. He offered to contribute by coordinating between the government and the various business houses and trade organizations for the success of this initiative.

During the meeting, Dr Jitendra Singh said that he has always felt that, instead of the various States of the region being casually referred as North Eastern States, each of the eight States, can be developed as an identity on its own, to be known by its own name. For example, he said, Sikkim can be developed as the "Organic State of India", Mizoram as the "Bamboo State of India", Manipur as the "Textiles State of India" and so on.

In the last four years, with the personal indulgence of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, Dr Jitendra Singh said, there has been a fast-track progress in providing the connectivity and transport infrastructure in the region. This, he said, has prompted traders and investors from the rest of the country and even abroad to come forward and explore the unexplored entrepreneurship potential in the region. What is now required, he said, is to evolve an institutionalized mechanism to ensure a streamlined approach to achieve this objective optimally.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the "Make in Northeast" approach will not only generate the revenue and livelihood opportunities in the region, but it would also reinforce the Government of India's "Act East" policy. For example, he said, only a produce grown in Arunachal Pradesh or Nagaland can find customers and consumers in countries across eastern borders like Myanmar, because of the common lifestyle, common food habits and common culture. He referred to the new "Fruit Court" started in Mizoram from March this year with the Israel collaboration. He said, further scope of "Public-Private Participation" (PPP) ventures will also be worked out by the Ministry of Northeast (DoNER) in a manner that it proves to be mutually beneficial to all.

The role of institutions like the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd (NEDFi), North East Small Finance Bank Ltd (NESFB) or the recently introduced "North-East Venture Fund" can also be improvised and made more inclusive to attract investors and manufacturers who have the know-how to contribute in supplementing the exclusive identity of each State and the region, thus enriching the brand of "Make in Northeast".



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