The NER Dialogue 2024, an interactive forum with Members of Parliament (MPs) from the North East, concluded on December 9. Organized by the Federation of Industry and Commerce of the North Eastern Region (FINER) in collaboration with the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Limited (NEDFI), the event served as a platform to discuss Northeast's socio-economic development. Prominent MPs, including Kiren Rijiju, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Pabitra Margherita, participated in the event held in New Delhi.
Key Discussions Focus on Collaboration, MSME Concerns
FINER President Bajrang Lohia emphasized the need for strong collaboration between policymakers, industry, and other stakeholders to unlock the full potential of the North East. During the event, FINER Director Sandeep Khaitan highlighted the challenges faced by approximately 90-100 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) due to the policy gap between the North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS) 2017 and the UNNATI 2024 scheme. Bajrang Lohia urged for retrospective coverage of these MSMEs under the new scheme. He also requested an extension of the registration window to provide adequate time to comply with the requirements.
Sandeep Khaitan noted that these MSMEs, which continued their investments during the policy transition despite assurances of no gap, were excluded from the benefits of UNNATI 2024, which is prospective and begins in March 2024. To ensure smoother transitions and seamless implementation, Hh emphasized the need for timely intervention.
Investment Opportunities, Insights From Key Institutions
The Industry Department of Assam showcased the state’s investment opportunities, highlighting its growing infrastructure development and industry-friendly incentives. Additionally, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) provided an overview of the UNNATI scheme’s impact on the region. NEDFI and FINER shared insights on NEIDS data and the broader investment climate in the North East.
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Moreover, FINER Assistant Director Mayuri Bora told Business North East (BNE) that the collaboration between various stakeholders is vital to addressing the region’s socio-economic challenges and fostering a more robust investment environment. The dialogue underscored the need for sustained support for MSMEs, which form the backbone of Northeast's economy and broader strategies to enhance socio-economic development.
Path Towards A Self-Reliant And Prosperous Northeast
Several MPs and stakeholders engaged in productive conversations to chart a roadmap towards a self-reliant and prosperous North East. Meanwhile, Sandeep Khaitan called for a dedicated parliamentary time slot to address Northeast's issues, prioritizing the region's concerns at the national level. The NER Dialogue 2024 successfully highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and policy interventions to secure a brighter and more prosperous future for the Northeast.
FIRST Business Portal addressing the potential of business capability of North East Region.
