Mizoram Governor for more border trade with neighbouring nations

Aizawl, March 12 (IANS) Acting Mizoram Governor Jagdish Mukhi has said border trade with Myanmar and Bangladesh would be pursued for the benefit of the state.

On the opening day of the budget session of the Assembly here on Tuesday, the Governor said: "In keeping with "Act East Policy", border trade with Myanmar and Bangladesh would be vigorously pursued so that Mizoram can benefit economically."

He said the state government would soon embark on a fresh "road map" of development under the new flagship programme -- Socio-Economic Development Policy (SEDP).

"THe SEDP would accelerate progress and growth in all key sectors where the state has tremendous potential. The objective of the policy is to transform Mizoram into a truly welfare state that is self-reliant and its development both inclusive and sustainable and where governance is transparent and participatory."

He told the House the SEDP, unlike earlier programmes of previous (Congress) government, would not be given as "doles" but as a hand-holding support on the viability of projects and feasibility of livelihood income generation.

"The menaces of drug abuse and drug trafficking have assumed alarming proportions in Mizoram. The state government would deal with the issue with all seriousness," he said.

Mukhi said measures would be taken to eradicate social evils. A new bill to repeal the Mizoram Liquor (Control and Prohibition) Act, 2014, implemented since January 2015, would be tabled during this session.

"All-out efforts would be made for combating trafficking of women and children, juvenile delinquency and rehabilitation as well as restoration programmes through network of residential homes and non-institutional services in partnership with civil society," he said.

The Governor said to develop Aizawl into a smart city under the Smart Cities Mission, a special purpose vehicle -- Aizawl Smart City Limited -- is now functional for implementation of varied features of the mission.

"In 2019-20, through a grant of Rs 500 crore from the Centre, of which Rs 53 crore has been released, Aizawl would get a complete facelift in various aspects," he said.

The Governor also said tourism has tremendous potential in generating both revenue and employment.

"Efforts to place Mizoram as a preferred tourist destination in the domestic and international circuits would be undertaken in a focussed manner. Rural tourism can help the rural economy and special emphasis will be laid to encourage community participation in tourism activities," said Mukhi.