Gangtok: Minister of State for External Affairs, Raj Kumar Ranjan Singh, inaugurated Capacity building programme for exporters for enhancing exports, strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Women entrepreneurs of Sikkim, here.
He also released ‘ASSOCHAM – NABARD’ Knowledge book Thursday, joined by MLA YT Lepcha BJP.
The minister stressed on Union Government ‘s policy and focus towards the holistic development of North East, while recognising the untapped potential in the region.
“The Act East’ policy, a crucial component of India’s foreign policy, has been instrumental in enhancing connectivity, promoting economic activities and promoting cultural exchanges with South East Asian countries,” said MoS Singh.
‘The emphasis of Government on ‘Neighbourhood First’ with ‘ Act East’ policy, is due to commitment to strengthening regional ties and is committed to boosting development of North East,’ added Singh.
Minister, highlighted that enrichment comes through Agri export policy and FPOs, MSME and of course the Women entrepreneurs.
“Digital platforms ,e-commerce and online marketing are being actively promoted’ to enhance the visibility of North East products in international markets’, added Singh further.
Minister, suggested further identification of medicinal herbs in Sikkim particularly and innovative products like packaged Mushrooms( that he came across in Sikkim Fruit Preservation factory).He said such ventures would attract investors and exports will be encouraged.
Others who accompanied the MoS, included Joint Secretary, Economic Diplomacy, Ministry of External Affairs, Neelam Rani, IFS, branch secretariat Kolkata, Ministry of External Affairs.
MoS left for Delhi after the inaugural programme on culmination of his three day visit to the state, his departmental officers along with State Government officers conducted a technical session with the stakeholders.
