IMPHAL, Oct 13 - A seminar on �Skilling the youths in the wake of India�s Act East Policy � From North East Perspective� was held under the aegis of the Integrated Talent Development Mission (ITDM) at the Manipur Assembly auditorium today.
Addressing the seminar, Governor Dr Najma Heptulla said Manipur and other States of the NE region are on the threshold of an exciting phase of economic activities under the Act East Policy of the Central Government.
Stating that India is heading towards becoming the world�s fastest growing economy and the youngest country by 2020 with 64 per cent of its population in the working age group, the Governor said skill development has emerged as a priority sector and the NE region has the prospects to grow into India�s economic powerhouse considering its resources with its perennial water system of rivers.
Asserting that the growth of the NE will not only enhance the Indian economy but also cultivate two-sided assimilation among the East and South East Asian neighbours, Dr Heptulla said the NE expects a massive boost in trade and commerce under the Policy.
As trade and commerce is booming in the region due to its closeness with ASEAN and China, youths here need to get skill development training in multi-skill training centres to have �language labs� to deliver training on Oriental languages which will be of immense help in penetrating business and maintaining diplomatic relations with Myanmar and China, the Governor felt.
Dr Swaran Anil of the ITDM said with skill development, traditional culture should also be taken into account as the culture of the State is fairly rich.
Deputy Speaker Robindro Singh said that the youths should take the opportunity provided by the seminar and try to help in the development of the region which is the gateway to trade and commerce with the neighbouring countries.
Experts in skill development programmes also spoke on the occasion.
