KOHIMA: The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) is set to host the first-ever Northeastern States Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Conclave in the Northeast.
The event, which is scheduled to take place from September 18 to 20, will bring together representatives from all eight northeastern states, at the picturesque Niathu Resort in Chümoukedima, Nagaland.
Dr Khekugha Muru, President of CNCCI, made the official announcement during a press conference on September 9 and stated that the event promises to be a significant gathering of business leaders, policymakers, academicians, and thought leaders.
Emphasising on the diverse and inclusive nature of the conclave, Muru added that in addition to the business community, it will also feature discussions led by academicians and experienced professionals. He also hinted at the possible participation of ministers from the northeastern states, reflecting the importance of this event.
The inaugural session, scheduled for September 18, will serve as an icebreaker, setting the tone for the subsequent days. On the second day, attendees will participate in in-depth discussions on various crucial issues, and on the third and final day, the conclave will focus on developing actionable plans, he added.
One of the central themes of the conclave is the convergence of the northeastern states into a cohesive and mutually beneficial market. Dr. Muru stressed that despite the region’s significant potential, it has been hindered by states operating in isolation. The conclave aims to address this by exploring ways to harness the region’s full economic potential.
The implementation of the Act East policy is another key topic of discussion. While the policy has been initiated, infrastructural challenges such as storage and customs facilities still need development to enable the region to reap its full benefits. The conclave will deliberate on strategies to ensure that the Act East initiative benefits the entire northeastern region, not just urban centres but also wayside communities.
Additionally, the conclave will address issues related to the sustainable utilization of natural resources, barriers to fostering a thriving business environment, and dispelling preconceived notions about the northeastern region held by the rest of the country.