Gangtok: A survey report aiming to find out the prospect of trade between the neighbouring countries and Sikkim and the other North Eastern States, has been submitted to state Chief Minister P S Tamang, official sources said on Monday.
The survey, which has approval from the external affairs ministry, was conducted by a high-powered team, headed by Chief Economic Advisor to the Sikkim government Mahendra P Lama, The team, visited the Indo- Nepal border via Uttarey, Dentam and Chiwabhanjang, in West Sikkim, submitted its report to the Chief Minister here on Sunday, sources said.
The chief minister described the move as fruitful. He also expressed gratitude to the Govt of India led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the development of the National Highway from Nayabazar to Chiwabhanjyang via Sombaria, Soreng, Dentam and Uttrey in the state.
Besides the Chief Economic Advisor to Govt of Sikkim, the team had the representatives of Bezbarua consultants and others like NEDFI (North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd).
Minister for development of North Eastern Region, G Krishna Reddy had advised the team members to visit Sikkim and report the possibilities of Indo- Nepal trade via Sikkim in the eastern Himalaya.
‘The trade would benefit both the countries, with the opening of the border. It will boost tourism, health and education sectors,’ informed the delegation members.
However, the observers here feel that the economy of both countries in the border villages will be upgraded particularly for homestay operators, taxi drivers, restaurants and others.
