The Vanijya Utsav was today virtually organised by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Meghalaya in collaboration with Department of Commerce Government of India & Jute Product Development & Export Promotion Council (DGFT) on the theme, “showcasing India as a rising economic force”.
The event was aimed at promoting trade and export of local and agri-horti produces, handloom, handicrafts and various exportable products from the State.
Delivering the key note address, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Diwakar Mishra exhorted all stake holders, farmers and traders to focus on the unique products of Meghalaya which has high value. He added that many of these products have also got GI tag.
He appealed to all the stake holders to take advantage of the schemes available in the ministry for promotion of export. In fact the effort should be concentrated for export to not only to Bangladesh, Myanmar and other countries of South East Asia but also to US and USA, Europe and other developing countries to reap greater benefits, he added.
He expressed that the State has significant advantages in comparison to other NE states in respect of the conducive climate and availability of organic farming as part of the practice followed by the farmers indigenously in the state. He added that after the pandemic, the demand for organic food produce and indigenous products have increased considerably and everyone should take advantage and promote export of the quality produce available in the region. India has from ages provided very good quality food products for the world at very reasonable price.
He exhorted the farmers, entrepreneurs, traders, exporters and all stakeholders to work tirelessly so that Meghalaya contribute significantly in the India’s ambitious challenge of 400 billion dollars export target for 2021- 22.
Observing that North Eastern states had tremendous potential yet untapped for enhancing exports in various sectors, he encouraged all to take part in the call. He also appealed to all the stakeholders to attend the event across the country in order to work together as a team towards achieving the goal of boosting exports and the economy as the country celebrates 75 years of independence.
The virtual workshop was attended by traders, entrepreneurs, farmers, exporters and officials of the state and central government.