SILCHAR: Renowned industrialist of Manipur and the chairman of BABINA Group of Companies Dr. Th. Dhabali Singh, on Sunday, said Barak Valley and Manipur can play an important role in developing trade and commerce with South East Asian countries and thereby in implementing the Government of India’s Act East Policy effectively.

Speaking at a discussion session on the topic – “Barak-Manipur Catalyst To Act East Policy of Government of India” organised by the Knowledge Resource Centre (KRC) Foundation in Silchar on Sunday evening, Singh, who was present as the chief guest, said Barak Valley and Manipur have a “historic relationship” with each other and both the places can play a vital role in the implementation of the Centre’s Act East Policy by developing trade and commerce with South East Asian nations. Apart from that, development of trade and commerce and cultural exchange is important for both the region’s all-round progress and prosperity. The Barak-Manipur Friendship Association can play a crucial role for the same, Dr. Singh said.

Ningombam Irabanta, managing director, UNACCO Group, Imphal, Manipur, who was a special invitee, said a change in mindset is necessary for the overall growth and prosperity of both the regions (Barak Valley and Manipur). Both the places have adequate human resources and it is important that both these regions utilise their potential for their progress and welfare, he said.

Veteran journalist Haran Dey said a fund has been allocated for the improvement of the Silchar-Imphal road and both the regions will witness remarkable growth and development once the road connectivity gets improved.

KRC Foundation’s managing director Biswadeep Gupta said West Bengal and the Northeast, which used to have a cordial relation with the mainland India once, got detached in many ways after partition. The connection, which Barak Valley and Manipur had with South East Asia, also got affected by that, he said. Dignitaries including businesswoman Swarnali Choudhuri and a few others were also present