The North Eastern Council has drawn up a North Eastern Region 2020 Vision perspective plan aimed at bringing about trade, commerce and economic development, besides peace to the region in the next 15 years.

The NEC at its meeting in Shillong charted out a plan, which is in tune with the Centre's 'Look East Policy,' for development of the region, an oficial statement said in New Delhi.

The NER Vision 2020 being formulated by NEC would take note of government of India's 'Look East Policy' in terms of communication, trade, commerce and marketing with a view of integrating the regions' economy with South East Asia, it said.

Suggesting facilitation of faster socio-economic development in the region, NEC said if the 32,000 MW power potential at 60 per cent load factor was harnessed, an estimated revenue of Rs 360 billion could be earned.

The council also said the region could become a major power supplier if its gas potential was tapped in addition to the hydel potential. The apex planning body of North East region also said air connectivity in the region should be improved and suggested a dedicated airline for the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Development of North East P R Kyndiah suggested taking up of a programme for promotion of sports and games relevant to the region in close association with state governments and state level sports bodies.

These activities would not only groom the youth of the region for bigger national and international events but also keep them usefully engaged and give them a sense of pride and reduce feeling of isolation, he added.

PTI from New Delhi, June 25, 2005