Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 22 2010:
As had been agreed at an earlier meeting between indian and Myanmar authorities quality rice would be imported from the neighbouring country into Manipur, very soon.
As and when the first consignment of 1000 metric tonne of rice arrives in the State the same is being tentatively fixed for sale at either Rs 20 or below per kilogram, said a reliable source recounting that a deal was signed for import of the rice during the North East Business Summit held at Kolkata in january this year.
In sync with the agreement, Myanmar's Ministry of Commerce entrusted Tin Win Myint Trading Company to oversee export of the first consignment of 1000 metric tonne to Manipur, the source informed.
The Myanmar Company subsequently tied-up with Manipur essential Commodities Marketing Service Limited with approval of the Government as one of many policies/projects being envisioned under the Look East Policy.
Under the Policy, the rice import matter was assigned to the Look East Trading Corporation, out of many private parties that lobbied with relevant authorities.
It is worth mentioning that under the initiatives of the Guwahati-based North East Federation of International Trade consultations were held with representatives of the Myanmar Government subsequently leading to an understanding that import of rice would be transacted under the State's Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, formerly FCS Department.
After prolong procedures, the Look East Trading Corporation handed over the transportation task to Manipur Industrial Development Corporation, but the latter, as per disclosure of the source, is yet to deposit the requisite amount to United bank of India's Moreh branch.
It is said that rate of purchase of Myanmar rice in Moreh will be Rs 17, inclusive of transportation charge.