Sitharaman inspects SEZ sites
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, February 10 2015:
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday visited Kuraopokpi near Pallel in Thoubal district and inspected the proposed sites for construction of Special Economic Zones (SEZ) before proceeding to Moreh.
After landing at 28 Sector Assam Rifles Headquarters at Kakching Lamkhai in an IAF chopper, the Minister and her team inspected the three sites located along the National Highway 102 in between Kakching Lamkhai and Kuraopokpi Village.
During the inspection, the Union minister who was accompanied by the state's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Govindas Konthoujam interacted with local elders and sought their opinions on the acquisition of their lands for setting up the SEZ.
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Later, briefing media persons, Sitharaman said that a lot of initiatives have already been taken up for realization of the project like the commencement of the process for land acquisition and infrastructure development.
However, the state officials should make sure that everything is in compliance with the minimum requirements, she stated.
Giving assurance on prior consultation with all stake holders before taking any major decision, she added that no action should be done unilaterally by the government.
The minister further stated that land acquisition, rehabilitation and relief aspects have been taken care of by the Central Government and they will be carried out keeping in mind the interest of the farmers.
Maximum compensation will be provided to those farmers whose land had been acquired for setting up the zone, said the minister.
While maintaining that SEZ is needed for industrial development, the Minister also informed that under the parameter for development of Special Economic Zone the establishment of schools and hospitals apart from the manufacturing units has been included.
She stated that it will make a difference to the local people and bring about development.
Prior to the inspection, the minister and her team were given a warm reception by the workers and members of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Kakching Mandal at Kakching Lamkhai.
During the reception, the minister interacted with the party leaders and workers including Sandam Premita, Councillor Ward No 7 of Kakching Municipal Council who became the first elected member of the party after her success in a by-election.