brief profile of ne 2
TRANSCRIPT
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A Brief Summary of
Opportunities in
NE IndiaCovering the states of Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland
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Contents1. NORTH EAST INDIA........................................................................................................................ 2
1.1. Economy:................................................................................................................................. 2
1.2. Advantage North East............................................................................................................. 2
1.3. North East Industrial And Investment Promotion Policy......................................................... 4
2. ASSAM............................................................................................................................................ 7
2.1. Demography:........................................................................................................................... 7
2.2. Economy and Industry............................................................................................................. 8
2.3. Industrial Policy and Incentives............................................................................................... 9
2.4. Food Processing: ................................................................................................................... 13
2.5. Urban Development.............................................................................................................. 14
2.6. Health Care ........................................................................................................................... 17
2.7. Textiles and Apparel.............................................................................................................. 18
2.8. Education .............................................................................................................................. 18
2.9. Information Technology........................................................................................................ 19
2.10. Tourism ............................................................................................................................. 19
3. NAGALAND ................................................................................................................................... 22
3.1. Demography:......................................................................................................................... 23
3.2. Economy................................................................................................................................ 23
3.3. Policy and incentives: ............................................................................................................ 24
3.4. Food Processing .................................................................................................................... 25
3.5. Urban Development.............................................................................................................. 26
3.6. Information Technology........................................................................................................ 28
3.7. Tourism ................................................................................................................................. 28
4. MEGHALAYA................................................................................................................................. 29
4.1. Demography.......................................................................................................................... 30
4.2. Economy and Industry........................................................................................................... 31
4.3. Policy and Incentives ............................................................................................................. 32
4.4. Agro - Food Processing.......................................................................................................... 33
4.5. Urban Development.............................................................................................................. 34
4.6. Tourism ................................................................................................................................. 35
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The eight states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura comprise the
North East of India. The region is surrounded by Tibet, Bhutan,
Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar on all sides except a narrow
corridor which connects the region with other parts of India. The
region is one of the most bio diverse regions in the world with a
forest cover of over 65%.
The NER of India covering an area of 0.262 million sq. km. accounts
for 7.9% of total geographical area of the country and 3.77% of
total population of India.
1.1. Economy:The region is well endowed with natural resources, the primary
resources being, oil and gas, agro-horticultural resources,
substantial mineral deposits , immense hydro electric potential and
significant forest resources. However, despite the resources, the
region has lagged behind rest of the country in terms of realizing its
growth potential.
Economy of the region is largely agrarian in nature with over 70% of
the population engaged in agriculture for livelihood, service sector
comes next and the manufacturing sector is still at a nascent stage.
However the packages of incentives announced by the
Government of India and respective state governments has of late
resulted in generation of significant investor interest and substantial
investment in the industrial, infrastructure and tourism sectors can
be expected in the near future.
1.2. Advantage North East A strategic location for foreign and domestic investors to tap the
vast contiguous markets of Myanmar, China, Malaysia, Thailand,
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Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia and other East and South East
Asian countries.
Proximity to SAARC countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan,which offer enormous possibility for trade and investment.
A region with very high literacy rate (over 70 %), and large numberof people fluent in English. A strong potential for growth of
information technology enabled services.
Virtually tax-free fiscal package, subsidies on capital investment,transport and working capital.
Unparalleled Tourist Attractions: Wildlife sanctuaries, adventuretourism, eco-tourism, hill stations, lakes, historical heritage-the
Northeast has it all.
The region has 8 per cent of the countrys total land space and 3.7per cent of the countrys population. A distinct demographic edge
over rest of the country.
An emerging market of 400 million people, including theneighbouring nations of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal.
Potential to be Indias future powerhouse. It has 38 per cent ofhydropower potential of the country estimated at nearly 50,000
MW, natural gas reserves of 190 billion cubic metres, coal reserves
of over 900 million tonnes and oil reserves of over 500 million tonnes.
Large Mineral Resources including limestone reserves of around5000 million tonnes and a forest cover which is 25 per cent of the
countrys forest area.
Phenomenal bio-diversity forest wealth, agro base, fruits andvegetables, herbs, aromatic plants, exotic flowers, other flora and
fauna.
Large variety of agricultural produce rice, maize, millets,sugarcane, jute, cotton, rubber, tea, mustard, grapes, guava,
coconut, coffee, apples, pineapples, passion fruit, walnut, brinjal
and a vast range of fruits and vegetables.
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North East: Potential hub for International Business: 98% of the
borders of the North-East are international borders with
Bangladesh, Myanmar China and Bhutan. In an increasingly
globalizing world, the importance of this gateway cannot be
ignored. The proposed Trans- Asian Highway will pass through the
north east to connect India with Myanmar, Thailand and even
Singapore.
North East: Powerhouse of India: The North East has nearly 50,000
MW of hydro power potential (over 35% of the Indias hydro power
potential) If the availability of gas in the North-East, and the
possibility of imports from Myanmar and Bangladesh in the future is
taken into account, the region is a veritable power house of
energy.
North East : Opportunities in Agro and Food Processing
Be it the forest wealth, fruits and vegetables, herbs, aromatic plants,
or exotic flowers, the biodiversity in the North East is indeed
unparalleled. It is indeed a land that is blessed with unlimited
opportunities.
Tourism opportunities : The North East has wonderful natural tourist
attractions some of which can compare well with the best in the
world.
Rich in Manpower Resources: With high literacy rates of over 70%,
and in some states over 90%, the North-East has people skills that
can be harnessed for many service sector industries.
Handloom and Handicrafts: The demand and acceptance of the
rich and exquisite handloom, handicrafts, and cane and bamboo
items from the North Eastern Region has been increasing by leaps
and bounds. It is rare to find such diverse and exquisite products
which are so full of vibrancy and colour.
1.3. North East Industrial And Investment Promotion PolicyIn order to promote investments in the region, the Government of
India in 2007 has announced a very attractive industrial and
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investment promotion policy. The major incentives available under
the policy are listed below
i. Capital Investment Subsidy: 30% of investment in plant andmachinery for new investments and for substantial expansionof existing industrial units.
ii. Excise Duty Exemption: Refund of excise duty paid on valueaddition done in the North Eastern Region.
iii. Income Tax Exemption: Income Tax exemption to new unitsfor a period of 10 years.
iv. Interest Subsidy: Interest Subsidy @ 3% on working capitalloan
v. Comprehensive Insurance: 100% insurance premium for newindustrial units and units undergoing substantial expansion.
vi. Incentives for Service/other Sector Industries: Incentivesunder NEIIPP, 2007 are applicable to the following service
sector activities/industries:-
a. Hotels (not below Two Star category), adventure andleisure sports including ropeways ;
b. Medical and health services in the nature of nursinghomes with a minimum capacity of 25 beds and old-age
homes ;
c. Vocational training institutes such as institutes for hotelmanagement, catering and food crafts,
entrepreneurship development, nursing and para-
medical, civil aviation related training, fashion, design
and industrial training.
vii. Incentives for Biotechnology industry: The biotechnologyindustry is also eligible for benefits under NEIIPP, 2007 as
applicable to other industries.
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viii. Incentives for Power Generating Industries: Power generatingplants upto 10 MW are eligible for all subsidies under the
NEIIPP.
ix. Transport Subsidy Scheme: 90% of the transportation cost onimport of raw materials from Siliguri to factory site and export
of finished products from factory site up to Siliguri computed
on the basis of railway freight certificate.
90% of transportation cost of raw materials from any place of
north-eastern states (outside Assam) and 50% of
transportation cost on finished products from Assam to any
place of NER states (outside Assam).
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The state of Assam is situated in the North Eastern part of India bounded
by 6 other NE states of Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura,
Mizoram, Manipur and shares international borders with Bangladesh and
Bhutan. The state covers a total of 78,438 sq Km (2.4% of India) and is the
most developed state in the North East contributing most of the regional
GDP. Assam is known for its tea, petroleum resources, and silk and for its
rich biodiversity. It has an annual rainfall of 2000 mm on average and
agriculture is the main occupation of the state.
The state has 27 districts (including 4 new districts of BTAD).
2.1. Demography:Total population of Assam was recorded at 31.17 million in 2011,
86% of which live in villages and 14% live in urban areas.
The state is home to a large number of ethnic communities. While
the Brahmaputra valley is populated largely by Assamese and a
large number of tribal groups; major among them being the Boro-
Kacharis, the Deori, the Misings, the Dimassas, the Karbis, the
Lalungs, the Rabhas etc, the three Barak Valley Districts are
populated largely by Bengalis.
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Table 1: Demographic Profile of the state
Background Characteristics Data
Geographic Area (in Sq. Kms) 78,438
Total population (Census 2011) 31,169,272
Population Urban 4,388,756 (14.08%)
Population Rural 26,780,516 (85.92%)
Population Female 15,214,345
Population Male 15,954,927
Decadal Growth Rate 18.85
Population density 397
Literacy rate Total 73.18 %
Literacy rate Male 78.81 %
Literacy rate Female 67.27%
Sex Ratio - Total 954/ 1000
2.2. Economy and IndustryThe economy of the state is dominated by Agriculture and service
sector, other important areas are tea production, petroleum,
handloom and Handicrafts. Agriculture is the biggest employer in
the state employing close to 70% of the total workforce.
Assam is the largest tea producer in the country; it produces about
51% of Indias total tea production and about 1/6th of the world
production. This industry generates about 50 million kg of tea
annually. Assam also accounts for 15% of the total crude oil
production and 50% of the total onshore oil output of the country.
The state is well known for its muga silk which is endemic only to the
state.
2.2.1. Industry in AssamAmong the seven states of the North East region, Assam is the most
industrially advanced state by virtue of its comparatively
favourable geographical location, coupled with the availability of
reasonable infrastructure facilities. There are several agriculture,
forest and mineral based medium and large scale as well as small
scale industries. The most important industries of Assam are Oil and
Natural Gas (50% of India's on-shore production), Tea (53% share in
all India production), paper, cement and petrochemicals. Jute, oil
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seeds, tobacco, Fertiliser, Textiles, Plywood and Sugarcane are
some of the most prominent industries in Assam. Handicrafts and
Handlooms occupy pride of place among the small and medium
industries.
2.2.2. Industrial Infrastructure:The government of Assam is making substantial efforts to bring
about industrial development of the state. As part of its efforts, the
government through its state PSUs, namely Assam Industrial
Development Corporation Ltd (AIDC), Assam Small Industries
Development Corporation (ASIDC) and Assam Industrial
Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (AIIDC), has set up a
number of industrial infrastructure projects. Some of the key
Industrial Infrastructure in the state are listed below.
i. Export Promotion Industrial Park(EPIP) near Guwahatiii. 3 industrial growth centers at matia, balipara and
chaygaon
iii. 11 Industrial parks (IID centers) spread out across thestate. (two more proposed)
iv. Number of smaller industrial areas estates spread acrossthe state.
v. Food Processing Park at Chaygaon near Guwahativi. Agri Export Zone for Ginger (sanctioned)vii. Mega Food Park (Upcoming)
2.3. Industrial Policy and IncentivesIn addition to the thrust given by the Central Government for the
promotion of industries in the North Eastern region, the state of
Assam has also undertaken several policy initiatives to promote
economic growth. Some of the important policy initiatives are:
The Assam Industrial Policy, 2008 IT Policy 2008
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Given below is a brief overview of the various enabling policies
announced by the state Government
2.3.1.The Assam Industrial Policy 2008Given below is a brief review of the key provisions the policy. Any
new unit as well as existing units which go in for substantial
expansion and which commence commercial production within
the period of validity will be eligible for the incentives.
Development of Industrial Infrastructure:
Development of quality infrastructure for industrial growth will be
accorded highest priority not only in the public but in the privatesector as well. Provision of uninterrupted quality power supply shall
be ensured through dedicated feeders from grid sub-station of
power distribution companies in the Industrial Parks/ estates/ areas
by the government. Adequate road and rail connectivity, wherever
possible, will be ensured in all new Industrial Estate/ Park proposals.
The major incentives under the policy are listed below:
i. Interest subsidy on term loan: 30% of the amount of interestpaid on term loan for a period of 5 years from for micro
enterprises (upto Rs. 1.00 lakhs per unit).
ii. Power subsidy: 30% for load upto 1MW and 25% for others for5 years (ceiling of Rs.2.5 milion)
iii. Subsidy on quality certification/technical know-how: 50% ofcost ( ceiling or Rs. 0.1 milion)
iv.
Subsidy on Drawal of Power line: 25% of the cost payable toState Power Distribution Company (ceiling of Rs. 1 million per
unit).
v. Vat Exemption: 99% of the tax payable under the AssamValue Added Tax Act, 2003 and the Central Sales Tax Act,
1956 for seven years subject to maximum 200% / 150% / 100%
of capital investment for micro small and medium/ large
units.
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vi. Exemption from Stamp Duty and Registration Fee: 100%reimbursement of the stamp duty and registration fees
against submission of equivalent Bank Guarantee from a
nationalized bank that the Industrial Park/ Estate will be set
up within a period of 3 years.
vii. Special Incentives for Mega Projects: For projects with largecapital investment of minimum Rs. 100 crores or generating a
minimum of 1000 regular employment and having potential
for development of ancillary industries based on their
products, termed as mega projects, all incentives including
priority land allotment, the ceiling amount of subsidy and or
the period of validity of Tax concessions under this policy will
be relaxable on case to case basis to be decided by a High
Power Committee specially constituted by the Government
for the purpose.
2.3.2. IT Policy of Assam, 2008Incentives shall be available to the new units as well as existing units
undergoing expansion/ modernization. Salient features of the policy
are given below :
i. Power Subsidy: Power subsidy of 50% subject to a ceiling ofRs.5.00 lakhs per year for 5 years.
ii. Subsidy on Generating set: 50% of the cost of the generatingset on captive generating set including non-conventional
energy generation (ceiling of Rs. 1 million).
iii. Interest Rate Subsidy on Working Capital: @ 30% of theamount of interest on Working Capital Loan for a period of 5
(five) years, ceiling of Rs.5.00 or 20% of the turn over
whichever is less.
iv. Subsidy on Bandwidth for connectivity: 30% subsidy onBandwidth for connectivity paid to ISP for 3 years.
v. Manpower Development subsidy: available for a period of 5years subject to following cellings
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Investment in fixed capital Total Ceiling
Up to Rs. 20.00 Iakh Rs. 1.50 lakh
Rs. 20.00 lakh to Rs. 25.00 lakh Rs. 2.00 Iakh
Rs. 25.00 Iakh to Rs. 50.00 Iakh Rs. 3.00 Iakh
Rs. 50.00 lakh to Rs. 100.00 lakh Rs. 5.00 Iakh
Above Rs. 100.00 lakh Rs. 10.00 lakh
vi. Special Incentives for Mega Projects: The Government wouldconsider special incentives on a case by case basis in
addition to the benefits already provided. (investment of
Rs.10 mil or more).
vii. Special Incentives for IT Enabled Industries and Electronic/IThardware manufacturing industries: In addition to the
benefits provided to IT Industries the following benefits shall
be provided for IT enabled Services and Electronics/IT
hardware manufacturing industries:-
Fiscal incentives:
100% Stamp Duty exemption 100% exemption from payment of Electricity Duty Exemption from payment of Entry Taxes Double FSI (FAR) for units built in IT parks/ HW parks
Non Fiscal:
No restrictions on employing women workers atlate hours
ITeS and Electronic/IT hardware manufacturingindustries to be treated as essential services
Unlimited captive and backup power generationwould be permitted
These units would be treated as IndependentPower Producers
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Potential Sectors
2.4. Food Processing:Assam, the second largest State in North East India accounts for a
bulk of the regions population and is by far the most advanced in
terms of agricultural production. The state has fertile land,
abundant rainfall and close to 70 % of its population is engaged in
agriculture. In terms of state domestic product (NSDP at current
prices), agriculture sector contributed 25 % of the state income in
2010 -2011.
The principal food crops produced in the state are rice (paddy),
maize (corn), pulses, and a number of fruits and vegetables, while
the principal cash crops are tea, jute, oilseeds, sugarcane, cotton
etc. The agro-climatic conditions in the state offer excellent
scope for growing different horticultural crops like fruits,
vegetables, spices, plantation crops, medicinal and aromatic
plants.
Assam has five agro climatic zones and key horticultural cropsgrown in these zones are given in the table below:
Agro-climatic
Zones
Potential Horticultural Crops
Grown
Districts/Areas
North Bank Plain
Zone
Banana, Orange
Potato, Vegetables, Lemon,
Darang, Sonitpur, Dhemaji,
Lakhimpur
Upper Brahmaputra
Valley Zone
Banana, Orange, Pineapple
Potato, Vegetables, Lemon, Arecanut,
Jack fruit, e, Guava, Litchi, Mango
Sibsagar, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh,
Jorhat, Golaghat.
Central Brahmaputra
Valley Zone
Banana, Potato, Vegetables, Lemon,
Orange, Arecanut, Jack fruit,
Pineapple, Guava, Litchi, Mango
Nogaon, Morigaon, Kamrup,
Karbi Anglong, Udalguri
Lower Brahmaputra
Valley Zone
Banana, Potato, Vegetables, Lemon,
Orange, Arecanut, Jack fruit,
Pineapple, Guava, Litchi, Mango
Nalbari, Barpeta, Bongaigaon,
Kokrajhar, Goalpara, Dhubri,
Baksa
Barak Valley Zone Banana, Potato, Vegetables, Lemon,
Orange, Arecanut, Jack fruit,
Pineapple, Guava, Litchi, Mango
Cachar, Karinganj, Hailakandi, N.
C. Hills
Apart from production within the state, the neighbouring states also
produce substantial quantities of Agro Horticultural products which
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would be easy to access for any processing facility set up in the
state.
2.4.1.Marketing System & ChannelsThe vegetable and fruit markets of Assam are mature and
developed as compared to any other markets of the region. This is
mainly due to the fact that it is a major transit corridor and feeder
line to other north-eastern states both for dispatches as well as
receipts. There are about 22 regulated, 179 non-regulated market
and more than 1300 haats. The major fruit and vegetable markets
of the state are in Guwahati (Fancy Bazaar & Machkhowa),
Kharupetia, Silchar, Tezpur, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Uparhali, etc.
Mega Food Park: A project that is likely to create great
opportunities for food processing industries in the state is the North
East Mega food Park, which is coming up in Nalbari District of
Assam at a distance of about 90 kms from Guwahati, the state
capital. The mega food park which is being developed as a public
private partnership initiative will offer developed plots of land,
standard design factories, warehouse, Quality Control Laboratory,
logistics facilities, and amenities like power and water supply.
The mega food park will also provide raw material linkages through
a network of primary processing centres and collection centres
spread out across the region.
2.4.2. Investment Opportunities: Investment opportunities exist ini.
Setting up processing facilities in the mega food park or oneof the other industrial parks in the state.
ii. Agro Logistics Cold Chains, Cold Storages, Warehouses,refregerated transport, pack houses etc.
iii. Export of fresh produces2.5. Urban Development
Although majority of Assams population still lives in rural areas,
increasing urbanisation is putting considerable pressure on the
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available urban infrastructure in the state. In most cases the growth
of the cities and towns have been so fast that urban infrastructure
has not been able to keep pace with the demands of the
increasing population. A number of initiatives by the government
has seen some fast paced infrastructure development happening
in the major urban areas, particularly Guwahati.
The state has over 100 notified urban areas and 7 major urban
agglomerations which are listed below.
2.5.1.GuwahatiGuwahati is the largest and most important city of North Eastern
India. The city has a population of close to a million people (963,429
people as per 2011 census). Apart from being the gate way for
entire NE India, the city has over the years become a important
centre of education, healthcare and commerce. As a result a large
number of people from all over the north east and other parts of
the country visit the city, putting considerable pressure on the civic
infrastructure.
Guwahati is situated between the southern bank of the
Brahmaputra river and the foothills of the Shillong plateau, with LGB
International Airport to the west and the town of Narengi to the
east. It is gradually being expanded as North Guwahati to the
northern bank of the Brahmaputra. The Guwahati Municipal
Corporation, the city's local government, administers an area of 216
km, while the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority, the
planning and development agency of the city, administers an area
of 340 km.
Potential areas for development: The city of Guwahati is going
through rapid infrastructure development and a revised city master
plan has been prepared. A solid waste management project is
already underway through a PPP structure, a comprehensive water
supply scheme is being implemented, roads have been developed
with support from various agencies including the Government, and
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmaputrahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shillonghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lokpriya_Gopinath_Bordoloi_International_Airporthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lokpriya_Gopinath_Bordoloi_International_Airporthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narengihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Guwahatihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guwahati_Municipal_Corporationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guwahati_Municipal_Corporationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guwahati_Metropolitan_Development_Authorityhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guwahati_Metropolitan_Development_Authorityhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guwahati_Municipal_Corporationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guwahati_Municipal_Corporationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Guwahatihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narengihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lokpriya_Gopinath_Bordoloi_International_Airporthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lokpriya_Gopinath_Bordoloi_International_Airporthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shillonghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmaputra -
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a modern city bus system has been commissioned under the
JNNURM scheme of Government of India. However there is still
scope for development in many other areas. Some of the key areas
where there are possibilities for investment are:
Transportation (Bus Rapid Transport System) River front beautification (Proposed) Development of bridge over Brahmaputra connecting North
Guwahati
Development of Wholesale market complex and logisticscomplex.
Storm water drainage system Sewerage and drainage
2.5.2.SilcharThe headquarters of Cachar district in southern Assam, Silchar is the
2nd largest city in Assam. The Urban agglomeration of Silchar is
home to 228,985 people. Situated on the banks of the Barak River, it
is a trade and processing centre for tea, rice and other agricultural
products. There is limited industry, principally papermaking and tea-
box manufacturing. The city has an airport and lies on both a rail
head and national highways connecting to Guwahati, Assam;
Agartala, Tripura; Imphal, Manipur and Aizawl in Mizoram.
Over recent decades, the city has witnessed a huge influx of
people due to its increasing prospects and developments in the
field of education, medical facilities etc. The influx of people has
put tremendous strain on the civic infrastructure and the city is in
need of urgent investments in all areas of urban infrastructure.
Potential Areas for development: Some of the potential areas of
investment in the urban infrastructure in Silchar are listed below:
City Roads Urban Water Supply Solid Waste Management
Storm water drainage system Sewerage and drainage
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2.5.3. DibrugarhThe urban agglomeration of Dibrugarh has a population of 154019
as per 2011 census. Located in upper Assam (Eastern Assam), thecity is a important center of tea and petroleum production. The city
is also a important center of education and health care.
Potential Areas for development: Although the city has initiated a
number of development projects, potential still exists for
development in many other areas some of which are listed below:
River bank protection, (creation and maintnence of dykes) Urban Transportation Sewerage and drainage
2.6. Health CareLike most other states in the country, in Assam too, the backbone of
primary health care is provided by the public health care
infrastructure. Tertiary and secondary health care is provided by a
few government run hospitals and increasingly by private hospitals.
In the public health care system in Assam has quite a extensive
network for providing primary health care which consists of 108
community health centers (only 37 of which are FRUs), 844 primary
health centers and over 4500 sub centers.
However in the area of secondary and tertiary health care the
available infrastructure is rather limited and it consists of only three
medical colleges, 24 District Hospitals. The situation of specialty
health care also leaves much room for progress, with most patients
requiring specialist health care traveling outside the state for
treatment.
Private Sector in Health Care: The private sector has realized the
opportunity offered by this relative vacuum in tertiary, secondary
and specialist health care and a number of hospitals and nursing
homes in the private sector have come up. However, private sector
hospitals is Assam are unevenly distributed. Most of the private
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hospitals are clustered in and around the Guwahati Metropolitan
Area. At present there are 131 private hospitals scattered over 13
districts of the state, which are catering to the patients from not
only Assam but from the other NER states, and even some
neighboring countries like Bhutan.
Opportunities for development: There exists tremendous possibilities
for setting up tertiary, secondary and specialty healthcare facilities
in the state and also in medical education.
2.7. Textiles and ApparelThe indigenous handicrafts that in other parts of the India are
confined to professional castes have been practiced as household
industries in Assam and most of the North East since ancient times.
Assam has over 1.3 million looms on which weavers create exquisite
hand-woven textiles from different varieties of silk, cotton and even
synthetic fiber. Muga silk which has a natural golden color is
produced only in Assam and has found favour in many
international markets like Japan. With improved designs and
imaginative use of the fabric, the handloom textiles of Assam can
be crafted into very versatile fashion fabrics.
2.8. EducationIn India the need and demand for higher education has
continued to witness rapid growth over the recent past, owing to
its emergence as a knowledge-based economy. The situation in NE
India is no different. While the number of successful students in
higher secondary has grown considerably, the number of
institutions to absorb these students has not increased
proportionate to the demand.
For example, against a demand of 6000 7000 higher and
technical education seats annually Assam has three engineering
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colleges (excluding IIT) in the government sector- Assam
Engineering College, Guwahati, Jorhat Engineering College and
National Institute of Technology, Silchar - with an intake capacity of
750 students (now increased by additional 300).
Private sector led initiatives have added established a few higher
and technical education institutions and universities in the region.
However the demand still far outstrips supply. As a result a large
number of students from the region are forced to migrate outside
the region in search of quality education and a larger number are
forced to take up general degree courses with no career plan in
sight.
There is therefore substantial potential for development of higher
and technical education infrastructure and for collaboration with
institutions in the state.
2.9. Information TechnologySkilled human resources, a salubrious climate and high Englishliteracy makes the state a ideal destination for IT and ITES industries.
The state government has drawn up a comprehensive IT policy to
keep pace with the fast changing needs of the IT Industry and
attract investments in the sector. Business opportunities in the
sector are in
Setting up IT development centers IT enabled services EGovernance applications, particularly in services delivery.
2.10.TourismThe State of Assam is one of the most beautiful regions of India. Its
natural landscape, rich flora and fauna, lush green forests and wild
life sanctuaries offer a wide choice to cater to the tastes of tourists.
It is known for historical monuments, pilgrimage spots, tea gardens
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and its colourful cultural festivals. It is one of the best destinations,
where one can encounter a great variety of rare and endangered
wildlife species as well as can enjoy sports like angling, trekking,
rock climbing, mountaineering, etc. Despite a lack of infrastructure,
tourist arrivals in the state are showing a steady rising trend:
Assam tourist inflow
2009 2010 2010
Domestic (million) 3.85 4.05 4.34
Foreign (thousand) 14.9 15.2 16.4
Some Important tourism attractions in the state are outlined below:
2.10.1.Nature BasedAssam has five National Parks - Kaziranga National Park, the Manas
National Park, Nameri National Park, Orang National Park and
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park. Kaziranga is a World Heritage Site
and it is famous worldwide for the one-horned rhinoceros and a
large variety of deer, buffaloes, elephants, tigers, and rare birds etc.
It has also earned the distinction as one of the most tourist friendly
National Park in the country. Further some basic accommodation
facilities are also available at the Park. Manas, another World
Heritage Site is famous for its Tiger Project, and wild life, more
specifically Tiger & the Golden Langoors. The Nameri National Park,
Dibru-Saikhowa and Bhalukpong in Sonitpur district are ideal
locations for eco tourism activities. Similarly the Joypur Rain Forest
and Dihing-Patkai and Dibru-Saikhowa etc could be developed as
potential destinations for nature based and eco tourism.
2.10.2. River TourismBrahmaputra, one of the biggest rivers of the world, traverses
through Assam for about 800 kms. It is not just a mighty river but the
life-line of the people of Assam. Its vast riverfronts have the
potential for development as a major attraction for tourists from all
over the world. River expeditions, cruising, boating etc on
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Brahmaputra and Barak River in Barak Valley, angling, canoeing,
para-sailing, white water rafting etc can provide ample scope for
growth of both river and adventure tourism. River cruises on the
Brahmaputra from Guwahati, organized by the Govt and private
sectors, have already gained considerable popularity.
2.10.3.Tea & Golf TourismWith more than 800 large tea estates, their beautiful ambience,
colourful people, the old heritage bungalows, some of which were
set up by the British, could make Assam a paradise for leisure
seekers. Also, as many as 20 Golf Courses in and around the tea
gardens present yet another major source for promotion of Golf-
Tourism.
2.10.4.Business Opportunities: Opportunities exist for Setting up hotels and eco resorts Setting up amusement parks and Theme Parks River Cruises Collaboration with local tour operators for inbound and
outbound tourism
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Located in eastern part of North Eastern Region (NER), Nagaland is
the 16th State of India. The erstwhile Naga Hills a part of Assam
and North East Frontier Agency, became a separate State of India
on December 1, 1963.
Nagaland has a total area of 16,579 sq. km, which accounts for a0.5% of the area of the country and 6.4 % of the area of the North
Eastern region and comprise of twelve administrative districts. The
state is bounded by Assam in the west, Myanmar (Burma) on the
east, Arunachal Pradesh and part of Assam on the north and
Manipur in the south. Administratively the State has been divided
into eleven districts, which are further subdivided into 52 blocks with
1286 inhabited villages.
The climate is comfortable all through the year. The temperature of
the state ranges from 16C to 31C in summer (May to July) and 4C
to 24C during winter. The monsoon that spreads from the month of
June to early September is marked by heavy rains.
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3.1. Demography:Table 2: Demographic Profile of the state
Background Characteristics Data
Geographic Area (in Sq. Kms) 16579
Total population (Census 2011) 1,980,602
Population Urban 573,741 (28.97%)
Population Rural 1,406,861 (71.03%)
Population Female 954,895
Population Male 1,025,707
Decadal Growth Rate -0.47%
Population density (per sq km) 119
Literacy rate Total 80.11 %
Literacy rate
Male 83.29 %
Literacy rate Female 76.69%
Sex Ratio - Total 931/ 1000
3.2. EconomyAgriculture is the most important economic activity in Nagaland,
employing more than 70% of the population. Major crops include
rice, corn, millets, pulses, tobacco, oilseeds, sugarcane, potatoes
and fibers. Bamboo, cane, handicraft and weaving are othertraditional occupations. The secondary sector is small. Traditional
village industries based on local forest product form the backbone
of this sector. Tourism is important, but largely limited owing to the
state's geographic isolation and political instability in recent years.
In addition to substantial reserves of nickel, cobalt, chromium, high-
grade limestone, marble and coal Nagaland has reserves of 600
million tons of crude oil and natural gas. Apart from this, the state
also has significant potential for development of hydro power
projects, food processing industries, tourism and international trade
with Myanmar.
Given below is a brief profile of some important sectors and a short
description of the opportunities available.
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3.3. Policy and incentives:Apart from the North East Industrial and Investment Promotion
Policy(NEIIPP) the following state government incentive schemes
are also available in the state
Incentives Available under Nagaland State Industrial Policy
i. Power Subsidy: At the rates of 30% and 25% for connected loadsupto 1 MW and above 1 MW respectively for a period of 5 years
subject to a ceiling of Rs 0.2 million annually.
ii. Drawal of Power Line: Reimbursement of cost of drawal of 33/11 KVline outside developed industrial area subject to a maximum limit ofRs. 0.2 million
iii. Subsidy for Feasibility Study Cost: 50% of the cost of Detailed ProjectReport subject to a ceiling of Rs. 0.1 million.
iv. Manpower Subsidy: Reimbursement upto 25% of actual wage billfor local tribal employees for three years subject to a maximum limit
of Rs. 0.5 million.
v. Special Incentives for 100% Export Oriented Unit (EOU): Additional5% Capital Investment Subsidy subject to maximum ceiling of Rs 0.3
million & sales tax exemption for additional five years.
vi. Subsidy for Quality Control Measuresvii.Sales Tax Exemption: Total Sale Tax Exemption for all new industrial
units for a period of seven years.
viii.Stamp Duty Exemption: Exemption of 50% of Stamp Duty forsecuring loans from Banks/Financial Institutions including mortgage
of fixed assets.
ix. Price Preference (15%) and Exemption of Earnest Money on Govt.Store Purchase Programme
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Potential Sectors
3.4. Food ProcessingNature has endowed the state richly in the form of rainfall andfertile soil, a salubrious climate and agro/forest resources are
abundant.
Nagalands rich horticultural resources have vast potential for value
addition, which is done to a very limited extent at present. The state
has a substantial area under the cultivation of pineapple, passion
fruits, and other horticultural resources which offers immense
potential for development of processing industries.
Nagaland has two agro climatic zones; the sub tropical hill zone
and mild tropical hill zone. The crop grown and the districts are
listed in the table below:
Agroclimatic
Zones
Horticultural
Crops
Districts/Areas
Sub Tropical Hill
Zone
Pineapple,Vegetables,
PassionFruit, Potato, Pear,
maize
Dimapur,Kohima,Mon,
Longleng, Kiphire,
Mokokchong, Tuensang,
Mild Tropical Hill
Zone
Pineapple,PassionFruit,
Potato,
Vegetables, Peach
Kohima,Zunheboto,Peren
2.10.5.Marketing System and ChannelsDimapur is the commercial hub of the state and a major market
conglomeration of the agri and horti produces. The products find
their way to Guwahati and other mainland Indian market directly
through Dimapur as it is well connected by road and rail. Most of
the aggregators and wholesale purchasers for the state are
located in Dimapur. The vegetable wholesale market of Dimapur
is the busiest and the most crucial market for the entire state. The
other terminal markets for the state are the Jorhat and Sibsagar
markets that cater to Mon, Mokokchung, Longleng and Tuensang.
The state still supplies huge quantity of ginger, maize, large
cardamom, etc. to the neighbouring markets in Assam.
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3.4.1.Nagaland Agri SEZThe government of Nagaland is setting up a special economic
zone (SEZ), focusing primarily on Agro Food Processing, at Dimapur,
the commercial hub of Nagaland. The SEZ will cover an area of 125
acres and will provide facilities like developed plots of land,
external and internal roads, utilities like power, water, telecom
infrastructure, waste management & sewerage and amenities like
residential flats, health care facilities etc.
Being located in Dimapur the SEZ will have access to raw materials
and produces from Assam and other North Eastern states apart
from the districts of Nagaland
3.4.2. Investment and Business Opportunities Opportunity exists in the state for setting up
Processing facilities for Spices like Ginger and cardamom Processing facilities for Fruits like Passion fruit, Citrus and
pineapple Medicinal and aromatic distillation and fractionalization
industries.
Bamboo shoot processing units. Potential also exists for setting up post harvestment
management, storage and logistics facilities like cold chain
etc.
3.5.
Urban Development
Nagaland has been witnessing rapid urbanisation in recent
decades. From a total of 11 towns in 2001, the state now has 19
statutory towns and 6 census towns (Census towns are smaller
towns having population of at least 5000). Among the urban
centres of the state Dimapur has the highest urban population of
1,97,277, comprising of 34.8% of the total urban population of the
state. Besides Dimapur the other two major urban centres of the
state are Kohima, and Mokokchung.
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Given below is a brief summary of urban development in the state.
Water supply: The water supply requirement of most towns in
Nagaland is met through natural sources such as rivers, streams,
springs and ground water reserves. While there is some supply bythe Public Health Engineering Department in some of the towns, the
remaining urban population have to meet their water requirements
from the above mentioned sources or end up digging up wells and
using community springs. Nagaland being a hilly state most of the
water sources are not perennial and the urban population has to
face hardships during the dry season. The state government has
commissioned a number of studies to find a solution to the problem,
however a suitable solution is yet to be found.
Sewerage and Solid Waste Management: As of now, the Urban
Centres of Nagaland do not have proper sewerage and solid
waste management systems. Most towns do not have underground
pipe or sewerage system and even where they exist there is lot of
scope for improvement. Further, none of the towns have sewerage
treatment plants. The urban areas in Nagaland also lack solid waste
management and disposal systems.
Road Network, and Transportation
In most of the urban areas in Nagaland the roads are narrow with
average carriageway available is 3 to 5.5m. Coupled with high
vehicle density, this leads to traffic congestions. There is, therefore,
need for carrying out traffic studies, redesigning the transport
corridors and developing viable public transport systems.
Urban Planning and Growth: The urban areas of Nagaland have
over the years grown in a haphazard and unplanned manner in the
absence of master plans and building bylaws. However a
Comprehensive Development Plan for Kohima and the process of
development of infrastructure investment strategy plan for all the
other towns has been initiated. There remains substantial scope for
carrying out planning exercises for the urban areas in Nagaland.
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3.5.1.Opportunities Development of integrated Water Supply systems Development of Sewerage management systems Development of Solid Waste Management systems City and Town Planning
3.6. Information TechnologyNagaland has a sizeable English speaking population, a salubrious
climate and a vibrant social structure making it ideally suited for IT
and IT enabled industries. Realising this the Government of
Nagaland has instituted a IT policy which aims at developing the
State as a preferred IT destination by creating an enabling
environment with appropriate policy intervention and peoples
participation. The government is also taking active steps to use
information technology for better governance and better delivery
of services to the people.
3.6.1.Opportunities Back-end operations for IT enabled services E-Governance applications
3.7. TourismOne of the smaller hill states of India, Nagaland is known for its
myriad tribes with their rich culture and traditions. The State has a
distinct character both in terms of its social composition as well as in
its development history. Some of the advantages that Nagaland
enjoys include comparatively unexplored destinations, scenicbeauty, strong existence of local, community networks, abundant
natural resources, unique eco-system and cultural diversity. The
Government has declared tourism as a core industry under the
State Industrial Policy.
Nagaland provides great opportunities for Nature Based eco
Tourism and Cultural tourism.
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3.7.1.Nature / Eco Tourism Potential:Crisscrossed with swift flowing rivulets and rivers and surrounded by
blue hills with lush greenery, the state is emerging as a viable
destination for eco-tourism. The combination of ancient heritage,
diverse ethnic people and their culture, along with nature's bounty,
offers the tourists a unique experience. The major ecotourism
activities possible in the state are, trekking, mountain climbing, and
wild life. Some of the interesting places from eco tourism point of
view are, Dzukou valley, touphema tourist village, shiloi lake,
Khonoma Village.
3.7.2.Culture tourism:Nagaland has a rich ethnic diversity, languages, religions, climates
and landscapes. The land is home to some 16 different tribes with
distinct and fascinating cultures. More than 80% of the population
lives in small, isolated villages and practise their own rituals and
traditions which have been existing since centuries. Of particular
importance is the Hornbill Festival held in the first week of
December. The festival sees each tribal group construct a Morung
(boys dormitory), where the values of life are traditionally imparted.
3.7.3.Business Opportunities: Setting up hotels and eco resorts Setting up amusement parks and Theme Parks Collaboration with local tour operators for inbound and
outbound tourism
Located in the hills of bordering Bangladesh, Meghalaya, is
endowed with abundant rainfall, sun-shine, virgin forests, high
plateaus, tumbling waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, meandering
streamlets and above all with sturdy, intelligent and hospitable
people.
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It extends for about 300 kilometers in
length and about 100 kilometers in
breadth. It is bounded on the north by
Goalpara, Kamrup and Nowgong
districts, on the east by Karbi Anglong
and North Cachar Hills districts of
Assam, and on the south and west by
Bangladesh.
The capital city of Shillong, popularly
known as the Scotland of the East,
is situated at an altitude of 1500
metres above sea level.
Cherrapunjee, which records the
worlds highest average annual
rainfall at 12000 millimetres is also
located in the southern fringes of
Meghalaya, bordering Bangladesh.
About one third of the state is forested with luxuriant sub tropical
forests. The forests of Meghalaya are notable for theirbiodiversity of
mammals, birds, and plants.
The climate of Khasi and Jaintia Hills is neither too warm in summer
nor too cold in winter, but over the plains of Garo Hills, the climate is
warm and humid, except in winter.
4.1. DemographyMeghalaya is the homeland of the Khasis, the Jaintias and the
Garos. The Khasi, Jaintia, Bhoi & War, collectively known as the
Hynniewtrep people predominantly inhabit the districts East of
Meghalaya, also known to be one of the earliest ethnic groups of
settlers in the Indian sub-continent, belonging to the Proto
Austroloid Monkhmer race. The Garo Hills is predominantly
inhabited by the Garos, belonging to the Bodo family of the Tibeto-
Burman race, said to have migrated from Tibet. Meghalaya has a
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liberalized state industrial policy with state subsidies offered on
select sectors thus making the state conducive to investment.
Table 3: Demographic Profile of the state
Background Characteristics Data
Geographic Area (in Sq. Kms) 22429
Total population (Census 2011) 2,964,007
Population Urban 595,036 (20.08%)
Population Rural 2,368,971 (79.9%)
Population Female 1,471,339
Population Male 1,492,668
Decadal Growth Rate 27.8 %
Population density (per sq km) 132
Literacy rate Total 75.5 %
Literacy rate Male 77.2 %
Literacy rate Female 73.8 %
4.2. Economy and IndustryMeghalaya has abundant but mostly untapped natural resources,
including coal, limestone, kaolin, feldspar, quartz, mica, gypsum,
bauxite, and other minerals. Its sillimanite deposits (a source of high-
grade ceramic clay) are reputedly some of the best in the world
and account for almost all of India's sillimanite output. Availability of
the mineral resources has spurred development of quite a few
cement and fero-alloy plants.
Estimated Reserves of Minerals in Meghalaya
Mineral Reserve in Million tons
Coal 563
Limestone 4147
Kaolin 4.5
Clay 81
Sillimanite 0.05
Glass Sand 2.54
Iron 4
Fire Clay 12
The states economy however is still primarily agricultural in nature
with majority of its rural population engaged in agricultural and
allied activities.
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4.2.1. Industrial development in MeghalayaMeghalaya has been able to achieve a fair amount of
industrialisation as compared to other north-eastern states with over
100 large and medium manufacturing units and 2653 (as of 2008)
small industrial units. Mineral, horticulture, electronics, IT, export
oriented units. Mineral, horticulture, electronics, IT, export oriented
units and tourism have been identified as the thrust sectors for
industrial development in the state.
4.2.2.
Industrial Infrastructure
To provide investors easy access to developed land along with
other facilities the state government has created a number of,
Industrial Estates and Areas a Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP)
at Byrnihat and Growth, Centers. Some of the important industrial
areas in the state are listed below:
i. Barapani Industrial Area with an area spread of over 44Hectares.
ii. Growth Centre at Mendipathar, in East Garo Hills Districtiii. Industrial Estates in Shillong, Jowai, Mendipathar, Tura,
Williamnagar and Nongstoin.
iv. Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) at Byrnihat with anarea spread over 259.35 Hectares.
4.3. Policy and IncentivesMeghalaya Industrial Policy
The important incentives and benefits available under the state
industrial policy are briefly summarised below.
i. State Capital Investment Subsidy: 15% for small and micro units uptoa limit of Rs.0.3 million (0.5 million for export oriented units). And 30%
for large units upyo a limit of Rs. 2 millions.
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ii. Training Subsidy: 50% of cost of training local tribal employees willbe reimbursed.
iii. Power Tarrif Subsidy : Upto 30% subsidy on power tariff for five yearsupto a limit of Rs.0.5 million per year.
iv. Upto 99% remission of VAT payable for goods manufactured inMeghalaya
4.4. Agro - Food ProcessingThe potential for Agro-based industries in the state of Meghalaya is
very high. The state produces substantial quantities of oranges,
peaches, pineapples, pears, guavas, plums and bananas of superb
variety. It also grows good quantities of potatoes, tapioca, bay
leaves, ginger, maize and jackfruit. Meghalaya's turmeric,
particularly the variety that is grown in Shangpung in the Jaintia
Hills, is considered the best in the world. Plantation crops like coffee,
rubber, black pepper and areca nut are also grown in Meghalaya.
A major breakthrough has also been made in tea cultivation and
tea gardens have come up in various parts of the State.
The state has two agro climatic zones. The crops and the areas of
the two zones are listed in the table below:
Agroclimatic
Zones
Potential Horticultural Grown
Crops
Districts/Areas
Mild Tropical
Hill zone
Pineapple, Pear, Peach, Plum,
Potato,
Vegetables, Passion Fruit,
Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, West
Khasi
Hills, Jaintia Hills, Part of Garo
Mild Tropical
Plain ZonePineapple, Orange, Potato,
Ve etables
East Garo Hills, West GaroHills
4.4.1. Marketing System & ChannelsThe agriculture market of Meghalaya is undergoing good
transformation towards commercialisation of the produces.
Strawberry, flowers, etc. are grown commercially and sold through
organised channels. There are three terminal markets in Assam
catering to the whole of Meghalaya state. The Guwahati terminal
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market caters to Khasi Hills while the Silchar and Goalpara cater to
Jaintia and Garo Hills.
4.4.2. Opportunity for investment: There is ample scope for setting up a fruit and vegetable
processing units.
Biotechnology Based Units Tissue Culture and Orchid Unit: India accounts for 1300
species of orchids of which 150 are found in Meghalaya
Opportunity for organized collection, packaging, marketingand export of fresh produce.
4.5. Urban DevelopmentAccording to the 2011 census, 5,95,036 people live in urban areas,
accounting for 20.07 per cent of the states total population of
29,64,007. The urban population in the state is mainly concentrated
in the urban agglomeration of the capital city. Shillong and Tura
together contribute 71.93% of the urban population. There are 22
urban centres in the state according to the 2011 census, compared
to 16 centres in 2001. Both the central and the state governments
over the years have implemented various schemes and
programmes for the urban development of the state. Some key
projects being undertaken in the state are summarised below.
Under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission(JNNURM), two projects worth US$ 47.4 million were
approved in 2008-09 for developing urban infrastructure
in Shillong; the aim is to provide better drainage and
drinking water supply.
Under the Environmental Improvement of Urban Slums(EIUS) programme, 45 notified and five slum areas in
Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Baghmara, Williamnagar and
Nongstoin have been provided with basic amenities.
The New Shillong township is being developed based onthe Shillong Master Plan, 1991-2011; the new township
would cover an area of 2,030 hectares, of which 500 acres is
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to be acquired and developed by the government. It may
be mentioned that the State Government recently
approved the setting up of the New Shillong Township
Development Agency (NSTDA) to explore the possibility of
speeding up the land acquisition process.
4.5.1. Business Opportunities: Infrastructure development for Townships like New
ShillongTownship
Urban Transport Systems Sewerage and drainage Drinking water supply
4.6. TourismMeghalaya with its hilly terrain and cool climate, demonstrates
good potential for development of tourism. This hilly state has been
called a patch of beauty and grace and is famed as 'the
Scotland of the East'. It is linked to the Borail Range, an offshoot of
the Himalayan Mountains. Meghalaya has an edge over other
tourist centres in the Northeast as it has unique blend of different
cultures, congenial climatic conditions and better infrastructures for
setting up of tourism related activities.
The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is a very popular tourist
destination. Situated at an altitude of 1,496 meters above sea level,
Shillong is perhaps the only hill station with motorable roads leading
to every corner. The tourists spots in Shillong include, Ward's lake,
Lady hydari park, Polo ground, Mini zoo, Elephant falls, etc.
Cherrapunjee, locally and officially known as Sohra, is 56 kms from
Shillong, and a 'must see' destination for all tourists.
Meghalaya has, over the years seen a steady rise in tourist inflows
as seen from the table below. This could be further increased with
focused marketing and investments in tourism infrastructure as the
state, particularly Shillong has reached a position where demand
for tourist accommodations etc exceeds supply.
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Meghalaya tourist inflow (in lacs)
2009 2010 2010
Domestic 5.91 6.52 6.67Foreign 0.045 0.042 0.048
Total 5.955 6.562 6.718
Some of the prospective areas for tourism development in the state
are briefly summarised below:
4.6.1. Adventure and Sports Tourism:
From caving to rafting, trekking and water sports Meghalaya offers
a wide array of options for development of adventure sports.
Meghalaya has more then 1000 caves of varying depths and
lengths, the longest explored cave is the 22.2 Km long Krem
Laitprah//Um Im-Ladit located in Jaintia Hills. Of late the state has
started attracting a good number of cavers from all over the world.
If developed and properly marketed this could turn out to be one
of the major attractions in the state.
Golf Tourism: The eighteen hole golf course in Shillong is considered
to be one of the best natural golf courses in the World and has
been the venue of many championships for professionals and
armatures. The golf course is equipped with a club house which has
been designed to resemble an English Manor.
Water Sports: Umiam Lake at a short distance from Shillong is a ideal
location for developing water sports facilities, which could be a
great attraction for Tourists.
4.6.2. Nature Based / Eco Tourism:The state is ideally suited for eco tourism activities with a number of
destinations which are already well known and a number of others
which can be further developed. Among the better Known
destinations are Shillong Peak and surrounding areas, Umiam Lake,Cherapunji and Mawsynram. Some other locations that have
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potential for eco tourism are Thadlaskein Lake in Jaintia Hills,
Balpakram wild life scantuary in Garo Hills, apart from this a number
of trekking routs exist all over the state.
4.6.3. Business Opportunities: Setting up hotels and eco resorts Setting up amusement parks and Theme Parks Collaboration with local tour operators, for inbound and
outbound tourism.