Gangtok hosted the Frontier State Development Workshop on January 14, focusing on development challenges and opportunities in the North-East. The day-long event brought together senior policymakers, administrators, and experts from across the region for discussions and technical sessions aimed at strengthening coordinated, context-specific planning for frontier and border states.
The workshop began at 9:30 am with participant registration, followed by the inaugural session at 10 am, which included a lamp-lighting ceremony and a welcome address. Sikkim Chief Secretary Ravindra Telang highlighted the need for practical, locally tailored planning for frontier states, noting that difficult terrain, border sensitivity, and limited connectivity present unique challenges.
Dr. M P Lama, Chief Economic Adviser to the Sikkim government, set the context by discussing the economic realities of frontier regions. He emphasized community participation, environmental sustainability, and the importance of balancing economic growth with ecological protection.
A special address by Prof Ramesh Chand, NITI Aayog member, focused on national-level planning for remote regions, stressing improved coordination between the Centre and states to address infrastructure, livelihood, and human development gaps in frontier areas. The keynote address by Suman K Bery, Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog, highlighted the strategic and economic significance of frontier states, noting that strengthening these regions supports both inclusive growth and national security. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by M T Sherpa, Secretary of the Planning and Development Department, Government of Sikkim.
The first technical session, held at 11:15 am and chaired by Major General K Narayanan, Programme Director at NITI Aayog, focused on holistic frontier development. Presentations included Sikkim’s Vibrant Village Programme by Khushbu Gurung and border-area development initiatives by Colonel Lalit Khandpal. Representatives from Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh shared insights on community-led development, connectivity challenges, and livelihood initiatives.
The second session in the afternoon, chaired by Pradeep Kumar, Principal Secretary of Sikkim’s Agriculture Department, focused on expanding organic agriculture. Speakers from Sikkim, Mizoram, and Meghalaya discussed organic farming transitions, market access, and farmer-led growth models.
The third session, chaired by Karma Doma Youtso, Secretary of Sikkim’s Commerce and Industries Department, will focus on the North-East’s innovation ecosystem. Startup leaders and innovators from Sikkim, Tripura, and Assam will discuss entrepreneurship, healthcare, tourism, and agri-based enterprises.
The workshop is set to conclude in the late afternoon with a formal vote of thanks, followed by high tea and dinner. Officials noted that discussions have been constructive and are expected to guide future policy initiatives to improve development outcomes and coordination across frontier and border areas in the North-East.
