In collaboration among the Department of Economics, the Department of Commerce, of the Tripura University and State Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (SIPARD) a transformative interactive programme was organized on Wednesday. Focused on the “Prospects for Improvement of Business and Industries in Tripura: Role of Logistics,” the event marked a significant step towards amplifying economic opportunities in the region.
Resource persons like Er. Susanta Dutta, Head of the Department of Logistics, Communication & Airways at SIPARD, and Professor Ashish Nath from the Department of Economics played prominent roles as lead speakers in the programme which took place at the Conference Hall in the Department of Commerce.
Professor Nath’s address during the programme zeroed in on critical issues concerning trade between Bangladesh and Tripura. Infrastructural challenges emerged as significant hurdles hampering seamless trade operations across different regions. Traders grapple with primary obstacles, including the urgent need for an expanded road network and improved facilities at key trade points such as Khowaighat LCS, Old Ragna LCS, and Bilonia LCS.
The discussion underscored the pressing need for government attention and intervention to address these infrastructural gaps. Professor Nath emphasized that rectifying these issues would not only facilitate smoother trade operations but also significantly contribute to the economic growth of the region.
Furthermore, Professor Nath drew attention to the prevalence of informal trading, surpassing formal trade due to various factors. These include the perceived unfriendly behavior of government officials, bureaucratic delays in official procedures, and harassment faced by traders. Delays in the timely supply of goods in formal trade have further fueled the preference for informal channels.
The interactive session concluded with a collective call to action for governments to prioritize the expansion of critical infrastructure, streamline official procedures, and foster a more supportive environment for formal trade. Participants and stakeholders expressed optimism that such measures would not only bolster the economy of Tripura but also strengthen economic ties between Tripura-India and Bangladesh, fostering a conducive environment for sustained business and industrial growth.
Acknowledgments were extended to Professor Subhrabaran Das, Head of the Economics Department, and Dr. Subir Sen, Head of the Commerce Department.
