MYANMAR MATTERS

Vol 16Vol :12: January June - July 2017 2015

CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WEWIN WISH IN MYANMAR OUR READERS A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH AND PRIVATE STUDY. FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY Table of Contents

India’s Act East Policy Will Provide A Strong Link 5-6 Foreword To Asean Myanmar Shifts Gears To Drive Growth In Small 8 Business Business Ms. Suu Kyi May Overlook Qualms With Japan And 9 Give Japanese Firms Chance To Move In Japan Pledges US $ 7.73 Billion For Myanmar’s 11 Development Investment US Quasar Resources Looks To Invest Up To $ 400 12 Million In Myanmar's Power Sector Technology Telenor Shifts Myanmar Focus To Internet Services 14 Myanmar Probes Whether To Resume Construction 16 Of Controversial Chinese-Backed Dam Nation News Swiss Government To Launch Vocational Training 17 In Burma A Visit To Myanmar Temples: Experience Holiness 19-20 RELIGION And Thanaka PEOPLE AND Myanmar's Explosive Fire Balloon Festival 22 LIFESTYLE Thailand India, Myanmar And Thailand Friendship Motor Car 24 Connect Rally, 2016 Flagged-Off On November 13 India Connect Assam State Power Sector Incurs Rs 3,700-Cr Loss 25 For contributions, feedback & inquiries -North East- on advertising opportunities in Myanmar Business Matters, please contact : INDIA CONNECT Demonetisation: The Short And Long Term Effects [email protected] - NORTH EAST- On North East And The Rest Of India 26-27 www.myanmarmatters.com FINANCE Profiled & published by Globally Managed Services - www.gms.net.in India Connect Assam Safari Express Set To Roll In February 28 - North East- Motor Sport Event Held In Tura, Meghalaya To 29 Tourism Promote Adventure Tourism Founding Chairman : Ranjit Barthakur India Connect Railway Minister Mr. Suresh Prabhu States Rail 30 Editor in Chief : Wishu Sindhu - North East- Network Will Make Northeast India A 'Destination' Advisory Board Members: Connectivity Manipur Gets Country's Longest Safety Rail Tunnel 31 l Nicholas Claxton 2.1 Billion Yen Grant For Bhutan 33 l Kamal Nain Pandya BHUTAN India And Bhutan Sign New Bilateral Trade 34 l Kalpesh Popat Agreement

l Kaustuv Bhadra Bangladesh Hopes To Recover $ 30 Million More 36 From Cyber Heist l Akash Chandra Bangladesh Damodar Valley Corporation Eyes Selling Power To 37 l Prabudha Barua Bangladesh l Varsha Wadhwani Advertisement Kaziranga Guidebook 38 CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR FOREWORD

FOREWORD CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR FOREWORD

INDIA’S ACT EAST POLICY WILL PROVIDE A STRONG LINK TO FOREWORD ASEAN

day visit in October, 2016. During the meetings that took place during this visit, ample indications were given by both sides that they want to improve bilateral ties even further and establish a mutually beneficial developmental relationship with each other. Mr. Modi has announced India’s commitment to invest US $ 1.75 billion in Myanmar. He has further stated that this investment will be ‘people centric’ which means that the main focus will be the welfare of the people of Myanmar. With such statements coming out of the Prime Minister’s office and looking at all the infrastructure development projects that have been initiated in ASEAN NATIONS FLAGS IN JAKARTA the North Eastern region, it is clear India’s Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra can serve as a potential link to that the ‘Act East’ Policy holds a Modi started laying emphasis on the ASEAN. This region shares a 1,640 very important place in India’s new development of India’s North Eastern km long land border with Myanmar international strategy. By focusing on improving connectivity in the region soon after he assumed office. and through Myanmar India is North East, India is showing its Since then, the Government of India hoping to gain access to various determined intentions to boost has taken several concrete steps to other countries which lie further commerce, connectivity and cultural not only develop North East but also ahead. Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Act ties with ASEAN. However, in the to improve its connectivity with the East’ policy got a big boost when long run India is eyeing an even rest of the country. This policy has Myanmar’s State Counselor and more ambitions target. It is looking been named ‘Act East’ Policy and it Minister of Foreign Affairs Ms. Aung to extend the connection even states that India’s North East region San Suu Kyi came to India for a four further south to countries such as CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR if properly tapped can give rise to huge trade possibilities and as a result the currently sluggish and almost stagnant economy of India’s North Eastern states can get a great chance to develop and flourish. Myanmar is the only ASEAN country that directly borders India and it does so in the North East region. So, the bridge from India to ASEAN and beyond just can’t be built without proper development of the North Eastern states.

India understands this and has started working on various plans to make this dream a reality. Work on some of the transnational road and rail connectivity projects has already begun. India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, a 1,360 km highway joining Moreh in Manipur (India) to Mae Sot in Thailand through Bagan in Myanmar; Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Facility, connecting Indian ports on the eastern seaboard and Sittwe Port in Myanmar and then through riverine transport and by road to Mizoram (India), thus providing an alternate route for transport of goods to North East India; another rail link from Jiribam in Manipur to Hanoi in Vietnam passing through Myanmar, and revitalizing the Stilwell Road, linking Assam with China’s Yunnan province are some of the other important projects INDIA’S PRIME MINISTER MR. NAREDRA MODI IS LAYING GREAT EMPHASIS initiated by India. Good progress ON THE ACT EAST POLICY is being made without doubt but South Korea, Australia, Japan, and However, if these difficulties are one of the things to keep in mind Mongolia. overcome by focusing on developing is that local governments and the people of North East are important India’s North East has a very all possible means of transport such stakeholders in these projects and rugged terrain which does pose as roadways, railways, airways, and Central Government should work some difficulties which are further waterways then it can open a whole on properly engaging them so that enhanced by the fact that it is new era of development for the they can take full advantage of these connected with mainland India region. This region shares a total of connectivity projects. only by the narrow 22 km Siliguri over 5,400 km of borders with five corridor. This corridor is located neighbors, which besides Myanmar Ranjit Barthakur, in the state of West Bengal and include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Founding Chairman, is called the ‘Chicken’s Neck’. China and Nepal. These borders Myanmar Matters CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR BUSINESS

BUSINESS CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

MYANMAR MATTERS (7) Vol 16: January 2017

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR BUSINESS

MYANMAR SHIFTS GEARS TO DRIVE GROWTH IN SMALL BUSINESS

U.S. PRESIDENT MR. BARRACK OBAMA LIFTED ALL SANCTIONS FROM MYANMAR

Myanmar’s State Counselor Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi The United States decided to drop the sanctions is promoting an overhauled investment law to a new because it saw Myanmar moving towards becoming a generation of smaller businesses. She hopes one complete democracy. This was the result of years of day these small businesses will be able to dilute the struggle by Ms. Suu Kyi and various other supporters influence of Myanmar’s old military-linked oligarchs. of her cause which resulted in National League of This new strategy and planning is aimed at leveling the Democracy to win the elections in Myanmar and come market field so that local businesses of Myanmar are to power. Many investment and government officials able to stand up to the foreign companies and survive worked hard to design the new streamlined law in and thrive alongside them. This new law was signed on order to make it easier and faster for smaller, local October 18, 2016 after the United States President Mr. businesses to obtain operating permits. Myanmar’s Barack Obama formally dropped all the remaining U.S. economy is expanding rapidly and it is hoped that local imposed sanctions on Myanmar. businesses will be able to provide a big boost to it. CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR MS. SUU KYI MAY OVERLOOK QUALMS WITH JAPAN AND GIVE JAPANESE FIRMS CHANCE TO MOVE IN

Myanmar’s State Counselor Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi has Some experts believe that she is trying to find a balance slammed Tokyo for providing economic assistance to in getting along well with both Japan and China at the the country, which was at the time ruled by the military. same time. Her recent trip to Japan provided Japanese However, now she is willing to join hands with Japan for firms a fresh momentum to advance further into practical benefits. Ever since her party assumed power, Myanmar. The lifting of sanctions by the U.S. is also an Ms. Suu Kyi has taken a very pragmatic approach. She encouraging factor as in the past many Japanese firms have avoided doing business with blacklisted entities. put aside her differences with military leaders and Many Japanese firms are already operating in Myanmar business tycoons who made a fortune during the junta and have brought in heavy investments. With Ms. Suu Kyi’s era and chose to give priority to economic development attitude softening towards Japan, many more businesses instead. She has even gone as far as to maintain relatively and more investment is expected to enter Myanmar’s friendly ties with the former junta leaders who effectively economy. Myanmar is a growing economy with great imprisoned her for more than 14 years. She has also potential and many Japanese firms operating here are pledged to refrain from targeting the corrupt tycoons. She already making huge profits. With Ms. Suu Kyi allowing is following the same policy with Japan in order to uphold and even encouraging Japanese firms to do business in

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY the best interests of her country. her country many more companies are likely to follow.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR INVESTMENT

INVESTMENT CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR INVESTMENT

JAPAN PLEDGES US $ 7.73 BILLION FOR INVESTMENT MYANMAR’S DEVELOPMENT

On November 2, 2016 the Prime Minister of Japan Mr. Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi acknowledged Japan’s assistance Shinzo Abe announced that Japan will provide 800 billion as helping Myanmar to ensure peace and stability. She Yen (US $ 7.73 billion) to Myanmar over the next five said that she believes that Japan will prove to be a trusted years. The money will be provided in order to assist the partner of Myanmar during this period of her country’s peace process and the development in the country. The transition. Ms. Suu Kyi’s visit to Japan was focused statement was made at a joint press conference with on promoting Myanmar as a destination for investors. Myanmar State Counsellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Earlier, she visited China, the United States and India for Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi during her visit to Japan. Mr. Abe the same purpose. According to the Japanese Ministry said that he hopes that the funding will help Myanmar of Foreign Affairs, in the fiscal year 2014, which ended develop. Out of the promised funds, 40 billion Yen (US $ 387 in March 2015, Japan’s direct investment in Myanmar million) will be used to assist ethnic minority groups and reached US $ 86 million and Myanmar’s export to Japan the remaining will be invested in airports and electricity hit US $ 513 million. Most of the exports from Myanmar projects. In a meeting that took place prior to the press are clothing and farm produce and in this fiscal year it conference, Mr. Abe pledged Japan’s full support for imported US $ 1.3 billion worth of products from Japan

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY public and private sectors in Myanmar. which were mostly cars and machineries.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR INVESTMENT

US QUASAR RESOURCES LOOKS TO INVEST UP TO $ 400 MILLION IN MYANMAR'S POWER SECTOR

Quasar Resources, a Texas-based energy development This firm is also talking to the local government for company, is planning to invest from up to US $ 400 million developing a 64 MW hydel power plant in the Upper in the Myanmar’s power sector over the next five years. Saedawgyi region. This project will require an investment The company is looking at developing a 100 MW solar of around US $ 150 million and will involve building a new power station in Sagaing Region of Myanmar. It will invest dam to increase capacity.Quasar Resources also has around US $ 150 million in this project. Quasar Resources plans to set up a 100 MW power plant in Thilawa Special has already begun talking to the Myanmar Government Economic Zone which will be built in three phases of 33 in order to take the project forward. Following approvals, MW each. Quasar Resources has already raised private the company is hopeful of completing the project in one capital and is currently in advanced discussions with year. Recognizing the huge potential of the power sector in Myanmar, various private firms are keen to enter it. some more entities to secure additional funding. Besides Around 70 percent of power in Myanmar at present comes Quassar Resources, Myanmar has seen investments from hydroelectric plants. Quasar Resources has plans to from other corporations in the power infrastructure field. focus on solar energy which will prove to be beneficial Some of these include US based ACO Investment Group in summers when water runs low in dry areas and the and Convalt Energy‘s 300 MW project in Myingyan and

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY production of hydroelectric plants is impacted. Thailand’s Green Earth Power Co. Ltd. plant in Minbu.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR TECHNOLOGY CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR TECHNOLOGY

TELENOR SHIFTS MYANMAR FOCUS TO INTERNET SERVICES

As the era of rapid telecom better data services. Most people in competitors of Telenor are Qatar's subscriber growth in Myanmar has Myanmar who wanted a SIM card Ooredoo and Myanmar Posts and ended, one of the chief operators have already obtained it and now the Telecommunications (MPT) which in the country, the Norwegian companies are competing to retain has partnered with Japan's KDDI telecoms company Telenor, will existing customers rather than Corp in order to improve its services. now focus on improving its internet targeting on getting new ones who According to estimates, MPT has 21 services. Myanmar's telecoms have never used a cellphone before. million customers while Ooredoo sector was liberalized in 2011 and In Myanmar there are no fixed has 9 million subscribers. Telenor is soon after that Telenor established 3 million customers behind MPT and itself as the number 2 player in the line alternatives available to most for in the third quarter this year,5.3 market with 18 million subscribers. people and many people don’t even The initial phase saw tremendous own a computer. Therefore, people percent of its worldwide revenue growth in the telecom sector with are jumping at the chance to be able came from Myanmar. Around 40 various companies competing to to access the internet through their percent of this revenue came from get more customers. However, now smartphones. Facebook, WhatsApp data services while the remaining that the growth phase has subsided, and Viber are already extremely 60 percent was from voice calls and

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY focus has shifted towards providing popular in the country. Main text messages.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR NATION NEWS CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR nation news

MYANMAR PROBES WHETHER TO RESUME CONSTRUCTION OF CONTROVERSIAL CHINESE-BACKED DAM

The construction of China backed The dam is located in the northern that once finished it might cause Myitsone dam was halted in 2011 Kachin state of Myanmar and has flooding in nearby areas.The dam due to environmental and safety a total cost of approximately US $ was designed to send back the vast concerns. Now the Government of 3.6 billion. Besides the results of majority of the electricity produced Myanmar is considering whether environmental assessment, the back to mainland China. The project it should resume the construction opinions of local people and potential was awarded to China by Myanmar’s of this dam. Myanmar’s State effect on foreign investment will previous Military Government Counselor and Minister for Foreign also be considered before making a as a reward for supporting it affairs Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi has decision. and shielding it from the effects commissioned an environmental Environmentalists and protesters of international sanctions. This and social impact assessment on have vociferously opposed the decision is going to be tough for the project before making a final construction of the dam because its Myanmar because it would not want decision. According to various location is highly controversial. The to upset China which even today environment experts, this dam poses Myitsone dam's location is near an is the biggest foreign investor in

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY serious threat to the environment. active seismic fault which means Myanmar.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR nation news

SWISS GOVERNMENT TO LAUNCH VOCATIONAL TRAINING IN BURMA

The Swiss Embassy has announced Embassy in Myanmar state that Swiss Embassy would spend US $ 5 that it has decided on a plan to their priorities in Burma areto million in 2017 on a series of skills- promote vocational training for the engage in cooperation regarding based training in Myanmar. He youth of Myanmar. This plan has development and support for the plans to target high school students, been formulated in collaboration government-led peace process. To teachers, owners and managers of with the Ministry of Education and show their commitment to the peace local businesses, as well as a wide the Ministry of Labor and Industry. process in Myanmar, last year in range of government authorities. Switzerland’s Ambassador to December 2015 and also in January Deputy Director of Cooperation Myanmar Mr. Paul Seger stated 2016, Switzerland invited respective at the Swiss Embassy Ms. Carin that they target groups to promote delegations from the Karen National vocational skill training to university Union and the Restoration Council Salerno,stated that vocational students, teachers and the private of Shan State to their country for training for Myanmar’s youth will sector. This decision is a part of exposure trips relating to Swiss focus on the hospitality, beauty and a series of events that have been federalism. These two groups clothing industries, as well as offer planned to acknowledge 60 years are two of the largest nationwide mechanical skills like welding. of diplomatic relations between ceasefire agreement signatories. These vocational training will be Switzerland and Myanmar. About the vocational training promoted through “road shows”

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Representatives from the Swiss project, Mr. Seger said that the throughout the country in 2017

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR RELIGION

RELIGION CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR RELIGION

A Visit To Myanmar Temples: RELIGION Experience Holiness and Thanaka

Shwezigon Temple - Bagan, Myanmar Myanmar is a Buddhist majority country where Theravada Buddhism is the most practiced religious tradition. This is a place where pagodas, monasteries, and various other historical structures related to Buddhism thrive in abundance. When you walk around in Myanmar you will get to see the stunning site of monks dressed in their traditional red robes all around. In Myanmar, each male is expected to serve as a monk twice in his life. The first time a person joins a monastery

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY as a novice and the second time he is expected to become an ordained monk.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR RELIGION

The people of Myanmar show their true love and respect for Buddha and his symbols not only by keeping him and his teachings in their heart but also through their actions. Buddhists of Myanmar buy gold leaves and apply them to pagodas and Buddhist statues.The magnificent gold-plated Shwedagon Pagoda can be seen shining from anywhere in Yangon. Both rich and poor are equally devoted Buddhists and they believe that building pagodas is a very noble act. Rich people often fund the building of these pagodas. When pagodas get old or damaged they are quickly restored to their original splendor. Numerous people visit pagodas every day and they always follow the rule of going barefoot.

Besides the pagodas and monks another thing that you will immediately notice in Myanmar is a lot of people walking around with their faces painted with a yellowish powder. This yellowish substance is called thanaka and it is an inherent part of Myanmar’s culture. When you visit a Buddhist temple, the attendant there might apply it to your face as a ritual. When applied to skin it feels cool and gives a wonderful fragrance. The people of Myanmar believe it is good for the skin and it matches

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY their complexion very well.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE

Myanmar's Explosive Fire Balloon Festival

The Taunggyi Fire Balloon People travel to the capital of brilliant spectacle of light in order to Festival sets the skies of central Shan state from various parts of win the contest and then they see all Myanmar ablaze every year. Myanmar and even from various their work explode and disappear in These celebrations are a part of parts of the world to watch these minutes. Tazaungdaing Festival of Light which celebrations. The tradition of this is celebrated in November each way of celebrating is rooted in Besides fireworks and spectacular year to mark the end of Myanmar’s Buddhism but the hot air balloon balloons this festival offers various rainy season. It is without doubt contest itself was started by British other exciting experiences as well. one of the most beautiful fireworks colonialists in the late 19th century. Here you can witness a human- celebrations in the world and So, many people are present that powered ferris wheel at the festival’s also the most dangerous.Brightly it looks like a whole sea of people. colored balloons with hundreds of Many first timers are amazed and fairground where workers scamper homemade fireworks woven into say that they have never seen so across the 50-foot high rickety their frames were sent soaring many people at one place before. It structure like spider monkeys, into the night sky, showering down is really scary when the fireworks fly using their body weight to send it cascades of sparks onto adoring right at you and sometimes people spinning around at extraordinary crowds.These balloons are loaded die too. In 2014, three people were speed. Some of them dangle from with explosives and they regularly killed when a balloon crashed onto the bars as the ride hurtles toward crash to the ground. It causes panic spectators below. A young child among the crowds but visitors still also died when a balloon was blown the ground, while some others stay because they believe that’s the into the family’s tent.Balloon work swing between the bars upside sight is worth the risks. hard for months to create the most down as the wheel turns. CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Myanmar - India - Thailand Connect

India, Myanmar and Thailand Friendship Motor Car Rally, 2016 Flagged-off On November 13

The Minister of State for Road stated that this rally will prove made vehicles and cover the Transport and Highways, Shipping greatly beneficial in developing the distance from Delhi to Bangkok in and Chemical Fertilizers Mr. economic, transport and cultural 19 days. Ceremonial flag off will Mansukh Lal Mandaviya flagged relations between the three also be held in other cities and off a Friendship Motor Car Rally countries. He said that this rally state capitals enroute. These cities from India Gate lawns in Delhi. This will takeIndian Prime Minister Mr. include Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Patna, drivers participating in this rally Narendra Modi’s ‘Act East Policy’ Siliguri, Guwahati, Shillong, Kohima will travel from Delhi all the way and will improve India’s relationship and Imphal in India, Began and to to Bangkok today. Ambassador with neighboring countries. A Yangon in Myanmar and Bangkok in of Thailand Mr. Chalit Manityakul commemorative stamp for IMT Thailand. The rally that will conclude was also present on the occasion. at Bangkok on 2nd December and Rally, 2016 was also released on the This rally is aimed at improving it is hoped that sensitize people occasion. connectivity by road in the South- about the fact that an all-weather East Asian region and to sensitize the The rally caravan will span a total road connecting New Delhi and stakeholders of India, Myanmar and distance of 5,722 KMs along the Bangkok would soon be operational. Thailand Motor Vehicle Agreement IMT Trilateral Highway and 80 It will show that with the opening of regarding potential benefits of participants from all the three trilateral highway, traveling from such a regulatory regime. Speaking countries are participating in it. New Delhi to Bangkok by road will on the occasion, Mr. Mandaviya CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Participants will travel in 20 Indian soon become possible.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Myanmar – India Connect -North East-Business

ASSAM STATE POWER SECTOR INCURS RS 3,700-CR LOSS

The power sector in Assam is in (AEGCL) share in this amount is the cost of power they supply to the a tough spot as the accumulated around Rs. 442 crore and Assam consumers.The transmission and loss of the three public sector Power Generation Corporation distribution loss in the State’s power power utilities of the State has Ltd.’s (APGCL) share is nearlyRs. sector is 26 per cent presently. An reached the huge amount of nearly 173 crore. The reasons resulting important fact here is that AERC has Rs. 3,700 crore. This amount has in this grim situation are attributed been fixing the T&D loss target to been calculated since the splitting to various factors including higher the APDCL and the AEGCL and only of the Assam State Electricity Board transmission and distribution (T&D) the loss approved by the AERC can (ASEB) in 2004, when the power losses, lack of transparency in be passed on to the consumers.The utilities started with a clean sheet. metering and billing activities of the rest of the loss must be absorbed The splitting process of the ASEB APDCL, lack of accountability and by the APDCL and the AEFCL was completed in 2007 with the wasteful expenditure. themselves.The APDCL meter aim to bring the turnaround in the reading has a lot of flaws which is fiscal health of the State’s power In case of Assam State Electricity resulting in huge losses. So, this is sector in 2008-09. It was hoped that Regulatory Commission (AERC), one area which needs to be looked these utilities would become self- one of the reasons for incurring into and fixed as soon as possible. sustaining but they still continue such heavy losses is that the tariff Tendency among officials working to incur loss. In the total loss awarded to the power utilities is non- in the power sector to indulge in amount of Rs. 3,700 crore, Assam remunerative. This means that they wasteful expenditure also needs to

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Electricity Grid Corporation Ltd.’s are granted a low tariff compared to be addressed and curbed.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR MYANMAR - INDIA CONNECT - NORTH EAST-FINANCE

DEMONETISATION: THE SHORT AND LONG TERM EFFECTS ON NORTH EAST AND THE REST OF INDIA

Ever since the demonetization of weekend for their survival and utilized to counter the situation. A the Rs. 500 and Rs.1000 notes was their employers were unable to pay shopkeeper from this village came announced a huge impact was felt in them because of they were cash up with the idea of handing over ‘I North East India just like the rest of strapped due todemonetization. owe you’ chits quoting the amount the country. There are long queues The BJP government in Assam with a person’s signature to be used in front of banks, ATM machines took a step and through “the direct for financial transactions to tackle and people have to wait a long time intervention of the prime minister’s the sudden cash crunch being faced to extract a little money (Rs. 2500 office” it helped tea garden owners maximum and just Rs. 200 in some to immediately access cash worth by the villagers. In Assam, people cases). The ATM’s running dry of lakhs of rupees through the local living in villages bordering Bhutan Rs. 100 notes, Rs. 500 notes are deputy commissioners’ offices. This started using Bhutanese currency scarce as of yet and often people enabled them to pay their laborers for transactions. As a result, the get just one Rs. 2000 note that most their weekly dues. In Manipur the value of these currency notes rose shop owners refuse to accept as impact of this decision was felt in by over 20% to match that of Indian they don’t have enough change to an unusual way as people are left rupees. The demonetization effects give back. A large number of people with no newspapers. All newspaper of demonetization in North East are travel from their villages to the offices have been shut from nearby towns and queue up for cash. November 17, 2016 onwards. The similar as being faced by the rest of Sometimes even after waiting for All Manipur Newspaper Sales and the country. Most of the ATMs are hours people have to go back empty Distribution Association, Newspaper empty and the banks are running handed because the ATM runs out of Publishers’ Association and the out of cash too often. cash before their turn comes. These Editors’ Guildtook the decision to issues and the resulting problems stop the publication of newspapers So, at present demonetization does are making many people question in the state, since demonetization appear to be a very problematic the government for “not having a had dried up the availability of decision which is causing huge plan” on how to go about properly lower-denomination notes with the inconvenience to people throughout executing this bold decision without hawkers and distributors. the nation. Economists are divided causing or at least minimizing People living in the North Eastern in their opinion about this move by the inconvenience caused to the region, besides facing the cash the Indian Government. Some of common people. crunch also faced severe shortage them are welcoming it and think it is The Indian Government has stepped of fuel and other necessities of daily a good decision while some others in and tried to ease up the situation use from the start of November due are rejecting it as a very bad idea. in some cases. For example, in to an economic blockade called by While there is no question that the Assam demonetization affected the United Naga Council (UNC). short term impact of this decision the wages of about 10 lakh tea Many trucks carrying essential garden laborers working in over commodities were stuck on the is going to cause problems but let’s 900 tea gardens. These laborers highway. In Mizoram’s Khawbung compare that to what it will do in the

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY depend on the wages they get every village a unique strategy is being long term.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR MYANMAR - INDIA CONNECT - NORTH EAST-FINANCE

Short-term impact Long-term Impact GDP Growth GDP growth to be negatively impacted by 0.5-1% With a tax net widening after restriction on cash due to drop in consumption economy, GDP in the long-term likely to get a boost

Inflation Inflation likely to come down due to low demand Since effect of lower demand can have a lagging owing to liquidity problem impact on inflation, prices may remain flat or fall in the long term Interest rates With Banks flush with cash, interest rates may If demonetisation boots formal banking and more come down in the short-term cash continues to come in the system, interest rates may fall further G-sec yield Yields likely to fall as liquidity in the banking Likely to remain flat to positive depending on how system means interest rates are likely to fall inflation plays out and how's the country's fiscal situation Fiscal Deficit Unlikely to have much impact as most of the With likely increase in the size of formal economy, gains (RBI surplus, higher tax collections, tax collections would improve improving the penalties) will accrue after FY2017. country's fiscal situation.

We can summarize that in the long term the Indian Government’s plan to turn India into a cashless society is going to benefit us all. It will mean the end of cash hoarders and black money will significantly reduce. CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

MYANMAR MATTERS (27) Vol 16: January 2017

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Myanmar - India Connect - North East-Tourism

KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK ASSAM SAFARI EXPRESS SET TO ROLL IN FEBRUARY

Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and Assam Tourism Development Corporation are going start a project from February 2017. This project will provide tourists an opportunity to enjoy the comfort of a semi-luxury train along with the thrill of safaris into the wilderness of Assam. This is a dream project for Assam tourism and as it begins, the Assam Safari Express would start its two trips, back to back, for the first time in the State. The project is in its final stages and the details regarding the cost-component and marketing are being worked out in order to make this package more appealing and cost effective for the tourists. Despite of Assam Safari Express being a semi luxury train, efforts are being made to bring the cost down as much as possible.

Three types of exotic safaris in Assam will be offered to tourists as a part of the package, which will include elephant safari in Kaziranga National Park, jeep safari in Kaziranga National Park and boat safari in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park. The itinerary has already been finalised by both the ATDC and IRCTC which includes a six-night package covering places like Guwahati, Kaziranga, Sivasagar, Tinsukia and Dibru-Saikhowa. After the lowest possible cost has been determined, IRCTC plans to market this package aggressively to both Indian and foreign tourists. The focus will be on highlighting the beauty of Assam along with showcasing this package as an irresistible blend of clubbing comfort DIBRU-SAIKHOWA NATIONAL PARK

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY and adventure.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Myanmar - India Connect - North East-Tourism

MOTOR SPORT EVENT HELD IN TURA, MEGHALAYA TO PROMOTE ADVENTURE TOURISM

A motor sport event was organized in Meghalaya in November in an attempt to give a boost to adventure tourism in Meghalaya. The event was held in a town named Tura and it was successful in attracting a lot of adventure sports lovers. This was an initiative of an organization named Tura Motor Sports with the twin objectives of promoting motor sports and tourism as well as highlighting the beauty of the region. The event also hoped to boost up and encourage the local motor drivers. Tura Motor Sports has earlier organized a similar event named 'Bilgaro Challenge 2016' and this motor sport event was its second edition.

Organized under the initiative of Tura Motor Sports, the second edition of 'Bilgaro Challenge 2016', a motor sport event was held to promote motor sport and tourism, besides highlighting the beauty of the region. Many national drivers including the former national champion Mr. Amanpreet Ahluwalia also participated in this two-day event.Mr. Ahluwalia said that he missed the last year’s event but is very happy to participate this time. He praised the organizers for doing a great job and said that he is looking forward to participate next year as well.

from Shillong got the third position with a total 28 points in SUV class. The first prize in the diesel category was won by Rocky Sangma from Tura with 43 points won the first prize. Sajad Ahmed from Guwahati won the second prize with 40 points and the third position was won by was won by Thasin Ahmed, also from Guwahati, with 30 points.Sandeep Sharma with 50 points secured the first position in above 1300cc category, second position by Thinku Marak with 30 points and the third position by Grahambell Sangma with 30 points. In below 1300cc category Ewelson Lyngdohwon the first position with The event included two exciting on the end former national champion 43 points, Brandon Bazelely secured track events hill climb and sprint in Mr. Ahluwalia proved his mettle by the second position with 43 points SUV, above and below 1300 cc diesel baggingthe first position with total and Chiborlang Wallang got the for both local and outsider drivers. 50 points. Sandeep Sharma from third position with 30 points. All the The competition was really tough Delhi bagged the second position winners were awarded a citation,

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY in the motor racing category but in with 40 points and Ewelson Lyngdoh cash and a trophy.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Myanmar - India Connect - North East- Connectivity

RAILWAY MINISTER MR. SURESH PRABHU STATES RAIL NETWORK WILL MAKE NORTHEAST INDIA A 'DESTINATION'

While speaking in Mizoram on development. Mr. Prabhu further the Indian railway system in order November 11, 2016 India’s Railway stated that railways will not only aid to give a boost to the potential Minister Mr. Suresh Prabhakar in economic development but it will industry. He also said that all the Prabhu stated that the proper also act as a catalyst to bring a lot of development of railway network positive societal change. future railway stations in the country in the region will make North East would from now on be constructed A well connected railway network India a major "destination" instead by including the local ethos in the of being just a transit point as it is will bring the North Eastern region at the moment. This was said during closer to the rest of India. This will design. Mizoram’s Minister of State eradicate all the problems related an event held to celebrate the for Railways Mr. Rajen Gohain was laying of the foundation stone of the to both tapping of the resources also present at the event and he said railway station building at Sairang in the region as well as supply of which is located 20 km north of the needed goods. Bamboo is an that the new broad gauge line from Mizoram’s Capital Aizawl. He said abundant resource in Mizoram and Bairabi to Sairang was a part of the that North East is a resource rich Mr. Prabhu said that Indian Railways Indian Railway's vision to connect all region and railways will play a great is planning to use more bamboo part in the proper utilization of these products made in the state and the the capitals of North Eastern states

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY resources that will lead to a lot of North East region as a whole in through broad gauge line by 2020.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Myanmar - India Connect - North East- Connectivity

MANIPUR GETS COUNTRY'S LONGEST SAFETY RAIL TUNNEL

India’s Union Railway Minister Mr. building at Tupul and announced the people living in the region. The Suresh Prabhu laid the foundation commencement of work on the Governor of Manipur, Ms. Najma of the longest safety rail tunnel in second portal of Tunnel Number 12. Heptulla was also present on the the country on the Jiribam-Tupul- The event was held on the parade occasion and said that the Jiribam Imphal rail project in Manipur on ground of 1 Manipur Rifles located - Tupul - Imphal railway project November 10, 2016.The 111-km- in Imphal city. is extremely important as it will long Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal new provide an alternative means of broad gauge railway project was While speaking on the occasion, transport in Manipur state which taken up in 2008 and was declared Mr. Prabhu stressed upon the has a very difficult terrain. She a national project. Until now the commitment of Central Government believes that the ease of connectivity longest safety tunnel in India is the to provide rail connectivity to the provided by the completion of this PirPanjal tunnel on the Banihal- North East. He further stated that Qazigund line which is 11.2 km North East India has great potential project will naturally result in the long.The safety tunnel of Tunnel for tourism and the Government of improvement in the economic state Number 12 will be 11.55 km long India is making various provisions as well. A 12.5-km section from which will surpass the PirPanjal to improve the infrastructure in Jiribam to Dholakhal has already Tunnel. On this occasion Mr. Prabhu the region. Increase in tourism will been completed and commissioned

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY also laid the foundation of a station provide various job opportunities to for freight trains in March 2016.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR BHUTAN

2.1 BILLION YEN GRANT FOR BHUTAN

The signing ceremony of the In a press release issued by the Exchange of Notes (E/N) for “The Embassy of Japan, it was stated that Project For Reconstruction Of the Government of Japan hopes that Bridges On Primary National the Grant Aid will ensure efficient Highway Number 4” was heldin New and stable transportation between Delhi, India on December 16, 2016. the two countries which will help In this ceremony, the E/N was signed to further strengthen the relations between the Ambassador of Japan of friendship and cooperation to Bhutan, Mr. Kenji Hiramatsu and the Ambassador of Bhutan to Japan, between Japan and Bhutan. These Mr. Vetsop Namgyel. This project two countries are celebrating aims to reconstruct bridges on the the 30th anniversary year of the primary national highway and has a establishment of their diplomatic

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY total budget of 2,156 Million Yen. relations

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR BHUTAN

INDIA AND BHUTAN SIGN NEW BILATERAL TRADE AGREEMENT

On November 12, 2016, India and Bhutan signed a new bilateral trade agreement which will help to enhance trade between the two countries. The agreement is aimed at making trade easier by making improvements in the existing procedures. An official statement issued by the Indian Commerce Ministry stated that this bilateral agreement will focus on reducing the documentation required and also on adding more exit and entry points for Bhutan’s trade with other countries. It is expected that the signing of this agreement will not only provide a boost to trade but also further strengthen the already wonderfully cordial relations between the two countries. PRIME MINISTER OF BHUTAN MR. TSHERING TOBGAY

INDIA’S COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY MINISTER MS. NIRMALA SITHARAMAN The agreement was signed by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman and Minister for Economic Affairs, Bhutan Mr.Tengye Lyonpo Lekey Dorji. A bilateral meeting between Ms. Sitharaman and a high level Bhutanese delegation led by Mr. Dorji also took place. In this meeting various issues related to bilateral trade, transit and investment were discussed.The first agreement on trade and commerce between Bhutan and India was signed in 1972 and it has been renewed four times since then. The last agreement was renewed on July 28, 2006 and was valid till July 29, 2016. Its validity was later extended for a period of one year or till the date of coming into force of the new

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY agreement, whichever is earlier.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR BANGLA DESH CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Bangladesh

BANGLADESH HOPES TO RECOVER $ 30 MILLION MORE FROM CYBER HEIST

Bangladesh's Central Bank received a big jolt when some hackers succeeded in using stolen bank credentials to steal US $ 81 from its account at the New York Federal Reserve in February 2016. Hackers used the stolen information with hopes to try to steal US $ 1 billion by sending three dozen SWIFT messages. All of their attempts were not successful but they still succeeded in transferring US $ 81 million to four accounts at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. in Manila. Most of this money has already been laundered through the casinos located in Manila, Philippines. However, US $ 30 million out of this amount remains frozen at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

BANGLADESH BANK BUILDING IN RANGPUR This case was brought up in the Philippines’ Supreme Court and it has already been proved that the transferred amount of US $ 81 million belongs to Bangladesh Bank. A team from Bangladesh was to visit Philippines in October, 2016 in order to get the process of getting back the frozen US $ 30 million back but the tour was canceled due to some internal reasons. On November 11, 2016 Philippine authorities began the process of handing over $ 15.25 million to Bangladesh. The Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank, Mr. Abu Hena Mohammad Razee Hassan, who also heads the bank’s Financial Intelligence Unit has stated that he is hopeful in getting back the full US $ 30 million which was frozen

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR BANGLADESH DAMODAR VALLEY CORPORATION EYES SELLING POWER TO BANGLADESH

DAMODAR VALLEY CORPORATION’S KOLKATA OFFICE BUILDING

The Damodar Valley Corporation India in the year 2013. At that time gap between the demand and supply (DVC) is eyeing to sell at least 500 DVC was not in the picture and of electricity. The country also MW power to Bangladesh. DVC is the bidding was done by National wants to get rid of its expensive and a three-way joint venture of the Thermal Power Corporation highly polluting diesel-fueled power West Bengal, Jharkhand and Indian (NTPC) and the West Bengal Power generation units and replace their governments. Officials from the Development Corporation (WBPDC). output with the power obtained from corporation have stated that at India instead.DVC is currently facing present selling power to Bangladesh At present India is already supplying a debt crisis which has halted its is offering better returns than the 500 MW of power to Bangladesh plans to become a 10,000 MW power Indian power market. A proposal has through the Berhampur-Bheramara company. The coming to fruition of already been sent to the Government grid link. DVC believes that another DVC’s plans will be a win-win for of Bangladesh by the corporation. 500 MW can easily be supplied both parties as the corporation will DVC currently has a power surplus through the same link and this power get an opportunity to earn some of 1200 MW and additionally its new will prove to be much cheaper as revenue while Bangladesh will be unit in Bokaro, Madhya Pradesh compared to other alternatives for able to lessen its power deficit at a is also going to get commissioned Bangladesh as well. Bangladesh is cheap price. soon. Bangladesh first expressed deeply interested in importing power

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