Itanagar, May 19 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lieutenant General K.T. Parnaik (Retd) on Tuesday stressed the need for strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the northeastern state, saying the sector can emerge as a strong pillar of socio-economic development, officials said.

An official of Lok Bhavan in Itanagar said the Governor called for greater augmentation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Arunachal Pradesh, while observing that the sector has the potential to significantly contribute to the state’s economic growth and employment generation.

Interacting with Santanu Srivastava, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ishan International, who leads strategic partnerships with state and Central governments to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises across India, the Governor said the sector can create sustainable livelihood opportunities for youths, women, artisans, farmers, and Self-Help Groups.

During the interaction in New Delhi on Tuesday, Lieutenant General K.T. Parnaik (Retd) said Arunachal Pradesh, with its rich natural resources, tribal crafts, organic farming potential, forest produce, tourism prospects, and unique cultural heritage, offers immense scope for entrepreneurship and local enterprise development.

He highlighted that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises can generate sustainable employment opportunities for various sections of society, particularly women and youth.

The Governor noted that sectors such as food processing, bamboo and cane products, handloom and handicrafts, eco-tourism, horticulture, herbal products, organic agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing hold tremendous promise for the economic growth of Arunachal Pradesh.

He further said that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises can strengthen self-reliance, reduce unemployment, and discourage migration of youths to cities in search of jobs.

The sector can also help local entrepreneurs gain confidence and achieve financial independence while preserving traditional skills and indigenous knowledge, the Governor pointed out.

He emphasised that with improved infrastructure, financial support, skill development, market connectivity, and digital access, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises can drive inclusive growth, strengthen the rural economy, and contribute to the vision of Atmanirbhar Arunachal and Viksit Bharat.

–IANS

sc/dan