NEDI to expand cold-storage network in North East
Shillong, Aug 14: The North East Development Initiative (NEDI) has announced plans to expand its cold-storage network to Jowai and Mairang as part of a wider initiative covering infrastructure, skill development, connectivity, tourism and entrepreneurship in the Northeast.
Marking Independence Day, NEDI, under the aegis of ABK Media India Pvt. Ltd., said the proposed cold-storage facilities are aimed at bringing modern storage and distribution infrastructure closer to local communities and creating wider economic opportunities.
NEDI had inaugurated its maiden fish and livestock cold-storage facility at Mawblei in Shillong in May this year. The facility was inaugurated virtually by Meghalaya Fisheries, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira.
The organisation expects the facilities to support farmers, fish and livestock producers, transporters, technicians, distributors, retailers and entrepreneurs by strengthening the local value chain.
Besides fisheries, livestock and cold-chain infrastructure, NEDI is working in the areas of skill development, entrepreneurship, aviation connectivity and tourism.
As part of its skill development initiative, NEDI has collaborated with Don Bosco Technical School, Shillong, to develop specialised training in cold-storage construction, installation, operation and maintenance. The programme seeks to combine technical education with practical industry exposure.
NEDI is also exploring aviation-related initiatives aimed at improving connectivity between districts in Meghalaya. Its proposed aviation ecosystem includes development and management of helipad infrastructure and the possibility of small charter and helicopter connectivity in the future.
In the tourism sector, the organisation has proposed an Indigenous Ornamental Fish Underwater Aquarium and Experience Centre in Shillong, envisaged as a facility combining biodiversity, education, conservation, tourism and enterprise.
NEDI has also published “North East Connect”, authored by Somjit Dutta and published by ABK Media India, with the objective of bringing the region’s people, history, opportunities and strategic importance into the wider national discourse. According to NEDI, the book has received appreciation from the National Defence Academy, Pune.
The organisation is also expanding its activities beyond Meghalaya.
