Shillong: The Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis, IIM Shillong is set to host a Strategic Round Table meeting on Friday (23rd of February, 2024).
The meeting, which will be inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, aims to discuss the multimodal logistics development strategy focused on connecting the North Eastern Region (NER) with wider national and international regions to fortify the local economy.
The North Eastern Region, with its over 4,500 kilometers of international borders shared with Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, and Myanmar, holds significant strategic and economic importance. Leveraging its strategic position as the gateway to the further east, the NER has long attracted the attention of traders, with the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers serving as vital transportation arteries for goods destined for the Kolkata port through Bengal. The discussions will also revolve around the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade between Bangladesh and India, which seeks to enhance connectivity and trade through inland waterways.
The meeting will adopt a comprehensive approach, ensuring alignment between the visions of both private players and the government with on-the-ground realities and needs.
The agenda includes an introductory session from IIM Shillong, followed by a round table discussion with invited CEOs and stakeholders from the North Eastern Council (NEC). The discussion aims to explore prominent development strategies related to logistics for strengthening the economy in the NER and seek directives for implementing policies related to multimodal logistics.
The expected outcomes include the formulation of a collective NER logistics policy aligned with the National Logistic Mission and steps for operationalizing and implementing policies related to multimodal logistics in the NER.
The event will not only facilitate the integration of the NER with economic growth centers and networks within India and neighboring countries but also stimulate positive transformations in the local economy, thus restoring the region’s glory.
