MYANMAR MATTERS

VolVol 18 12: : JuneJune - 2017July 2015

CELEBRATING MYANMARDEMOCRACY’S MARCHES ON TOWARDSWIN IN MYANMAR PEACE AND PROSPERITY 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

OBOR PERSPECTIVE OBSERVER RESEARCH FOUNDATION MUMBAI 5

BDMS Unit Opens Medical Lab in Yangon 12

FORBES GIVES MYANMAR MARKETING MASTER 13 Business COVETED CAPITALIST HONOR ACCOR HOTELS TO OPEN 5 NEW HOTELS IN 13 MYANMAR BY 2019 KIAN JOO MAKES MYANMAR A PRIORITY IN 15 OVERSEAS EXPANSION Investment NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA ACQUIRES 22% IN 16 MYANMAR PAYMENTS OUTFIT ONGO

NORTHERN ALLIANCE ESTABLISHES A NEW 18 NEGOTIATING BODY TO MEET WITH GOVERNMENT Nation News MS. SUU KYI SAYS PEACE CONFERENCE 19 AGREEMENTS ARE A SIGNIFICANT STEP PEOPLE AND BURMESE FOOD COULD BE THE NEXT GLOBAL 21 LIFESTYLE CULINARY PHENOMENON BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER ISLANDS: EMERGING WILDLIFE MATTERS 24 CORRIDORS FOR TIGERS TRIPURA REVISES IIPIS TO ATTRACT INVESTMENT 27 AND EMPLOYMENT Myanmar - India NORTHEAST INDIA’S LARGEST IT HUB OPENS IN Connect - North 28 TRIPURA East - Business For contributions, feedback & inquiries BSNL TO CONNECT ALL ASSAM GPS THROUGH on advertising opportunities in Myanmar 29 Matters, please contact : OPTICAL FIBRE IN 2017-18 NGT IN CONFLICT WITH MEGHALAYA GOVT. OVER [email protected] Myanmar - 30 www.myanmarmatters.com India Connect COAL MINING - North East- PM NARENDRA MODI TO INAUGURATE INDIA’S Profiled & published by Globally Managed 31 Services - www.gms.net.in INFRASTRUCTURE LONGEST BRIDGE IN ASSAM Myanmar - India Connect INDIA’S NEWEST IRIS SPECIES FOUND IN Founding Chairman : Ranjit Barthakur 32 - North East- MANIPUR Editor in Chief : Wishu Sindhu Environment

Advisory Board Members: KINGDOM OF BHUTAN REMAINS INDIA’S BIGGEST 34 FOREIGN-AID RECIPIENT l Nicholas Claxton BHUTAN WIDENING WORKS DISCONNECT TANGSIBJI MINI 35 l Kamal Nain Pandya HYDEL l Kalpesh Popat BANGLADESH HOPES SPEEDIER 36 l Kaustuv Bhadra IMPLEMENTATION OF INDIA-AIDED PROJECTS Bangladesh BHEL BAGS Rs. 10,000 CRORE CONTRACT FROM l Akash Chandra 37 BANGLADESH l Prabudha Barua

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 OBOR PERSPECTIVE 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 OBOR PERSPECTIVE OBSERVER RESEARCH FOUNDATION MUMBAI Ideas and Action for a Better India OBOR THE BELT & ROAD INITIATIVE PERSPECTIVE

India’s perspectives on China’s Indian-Ocean Rim Association. from Bangladesh. ambitious plan for infrastructural Good afternoon Ladies and Executive Summary connectivity in Asia, Africa and Gentlemen, I am indeed grateful China’s Belt and Road Initiative Europe to Observer Research Foundation also known as One Belt One Road and Mr. Sudheendra Kulkarni for Opening remarks by Ranjit Barthakur (OBOR), is one of President Xi’s most giving me the opportunity to speak - 21st April 2017 – Regional Dynamics ambitious foreign and economic at the plenary session on Regional of Belt & Road Initiative: BCIM - policies. It aims to strengthen Dynamics of Belt & Road Initiative. Bangladesh–China–India–Myanmar Beijing’s economic leadership Forum for Regional Cooperation, I would also like to welcome my co- through a vast program of building CPEC - China–Pakistan Economic speakers Dr. Ren Jia from China, infrastructure throughout China’s Corridor BIMSTEC - Bay of Bengal Dr.Abid Q Suleri from Pakistan, Dr. neighbouring regions. Many foreign Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical Sreeradha Datta from India and my policy analysts view this initiative

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY and Economic Cooperation, IORA - friend, Ambassador Tariq Karim largely through a geopolitical lens,

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR seeing it as Beijing’s attempt to Admittedly, analysists are of the the key solutions to achieve this. gain political leverage over its view that China’s industrial policy • China is not just trying to export neighbours. There is no doubt that shall be impacted by obscuring high end goods through OBOR this is part of Beijing’s strategic economic means to geopolitical but is interested in elevating calculation. However, this analysis concerns. argues that some of the key drivers the acceptance of Chinese • This will encourage and aid in behind OBOR are largely motivated standards. the process of regional economic by China’s pressing economic integration, speed up the process • Apart from the high speed rail concerns. of building up infrastructure and sector, the Chinese Government All levels of the Chinese Government, connectivity. is also using OBOR to advance from the national economic planning Chinese standards in other • China will assert its regional agency to provincial universities, sectors such as energy and leadership through a holistic are scrambling to get involved in telecommunications. program of economic integration. OBOR. Nearly every province in • We want companies to move China has developed its own plan to • It is likely that Chinese domestic excess production capacity complement the national blueprint. components in projects will through direct foreign Major state-owned policy and be built before any overseas commercial banks have announced components for the simple investment to ASEAN countries generous funding plans to fulfil reason that Beijing can enforce which require infrastructural President Xi’s ambitious vision. its plans much more effectively support. within its own jurisdiction. Xi launched this at a time when • We need to get some model Chinese foreign policy has become • Beijing is keen on engaging with projects done and show some more assertive. This plan seems to different ways to reinvigorate early signs of success and let have geopolitical undercurrents to underperforming provinces and these countries feel the positive it than a purely economic interest. OBOR has been touted as one of benefits of our initiative.

OBOR BENEFITS- TRADE AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 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 OBOR-Route Map vis-a-vis Indian interests GEOSTRATEGY OR Three coordinating government or what he termed as Midland Ocean GEOECONOMICS? agencies- The National Development and the Asian heartland powers. In and Reform Commission, Ministry effect, he conceded that geopolitical Before the 18th Party Congress in of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of dominance required both a 2013, there were heated debates Commerce issued the first official continental as well as a maritime among Chinese policymakers and blueprint, ‘Vision and Actions on dimension. The later geopolitical scholars about the strategic direction Jointly Building Silk Road Economic theorist, Alfred Mahan, too had a of the country’s foreign policy, Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Eurasian centred global perspective, especially in its neighbourhood. Road’, just two years later in March but his emphasis was on maritime In October 2013 Beijing convened 2015. However, there has been slow power, mediating between a two- an important work conference progress in terms of implementation fold global framework, a Western on ‘peripheral diplomacy’. It was of projects outside China. and an Oriental system. reportedly the first major foreign policy meeting since 2006 and the The well-known geopolitical theorist, Both the Road and the Belt include first-ever meeting on policy towards Halford Mackinder, postulated regional loops and branches which neighbouring countries since the drainage and impenetrable by sea- extend the reach of the emerging founding of the People’s Republic. power was destined to be the “Pivot transportation networks but also It was attended by most of the Area” of world politics. It was his serve to tie the Road to the Belt important players in the Chinese view that the rule over the heart at critical points. Thus the China- foreign policymaking process, of the world’s greatest landmass Pakistan Economic Corridor is would become the basis for world including the entire Standing significant precisely because the domination, owing to the superiority Committee of the politburo. port of Gwadar is one of the points of rail over ships in terms of time where the Road and the Belt OBOR and its relationship with and reach. Russia and China, if they intersect. Of interest to India is the BCIM - Bangladesh–China–India– came together, he predicted, could branch constituted by the BCIM Myanmar Forum for Regional outflank the maritime world. Of corridor, which proposes to connect Cooperation, CPEC - China– course, the course of the First World Yunnan in southern China with Pakistan Economic Corridor War led him in later years to modify Myanmar, Bangladesh and eastern BIMSTEC - Bay of Bengal Initiative his initial perspective. In looking India. for Multi-Sectoral Technical and at the shape of the post-World GEOECONOMICS Economic Cooperation and IORA - War II order, he foresaw a world Indian-Ocean Rim Association are geopolitically balanced between a The problem with narrow

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY linked: combination of the North Atlantic, geostrategic interpretations of OBOR

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR OBOR-The Route, Region and the countries involved

is not that they are wrong but that a centre of advanced manufacturing - Trade liberalization and innovation, and the standard they are incomplete. Many analysts - Financial integration, and tend to overstate geostrategic setter. - Connectivity including people to dimensions of the project, while “A systematic project which should people links. under appreciating the economic be jointly built through consultation agenda of OBOR. The two goals are to meet the interests of all and China has taken advantage of the not, in fact, contradictory. China is effort should be made to integrate Greek economic crisis to establish using OBOR to assert its regional the development strategies of the itself at the strategic port of Piraeus. leadership through a vast program countries along the Belt and the The Chinese Shipping Company, of economic integration. Its aim Road.” COSCO, has a 35-year concession to expand the port by adding 2 modern is to create a regional production - Enhancing policy coordination container terminals. It is likely to bid chain, within which China would be across the Asian continent for the 67% Greek government stake in the port when it is fully privatized. Greek shipping tonnage is one of the largest in the world and most ships for Greek Shipping lines are built in China, which has the world’s largest ship building industry. Piraeus will thus serve as a major logistics hub for Chinese trade with Europe. China is planning a Land Sea Express which will link Piraeus with points on the European mainland. A US $ 2.5 billion project is envisaged to build a key high speed rail link from Piraeus to Western Europe. This aspect is important because it could and it probably already has weakened the trans-Atlantic alliance which has been a stable and predictable feature of geopolitics

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY since the end of the Cold War. The

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR U.K. rush to join the AIIB followed competitive and alternative the tank farm located at the port. by several other European powers, connectivity networks on a global The Andaman and Nicobar Islands against U.S. opposition, was a clear scale. Therefore, for the time being lie at the very centre of the Bay of indication of this emerging trend. it may be worthwhile to carefully Bengal and could be developed to The longer it takes for the T-TIP evaluate those components which serve as a regional shipping hub for to be actualized, the greater the may, in fact, improve India’s own the littoral states and beyond. And chances of China’s Eurasian project connectivity to major markets and yet, these islands continue to be succeeding. Interestingly, Cohen resource supplies and become treated as a distant outpost rather foresaw a time when India, like participants in them just as we have leveraging their unique location at China, could carve out a fourth geo- chosen to do with the AIIB and the the very centre of one of the most strategic realm also continental and NDB. For example, building a road strategic stretches of ocean space. maritime in nature. This it would or rail link to Central Asia through It is fair to say that China, in do by dominating the eastern and Iran using the port of Chahbahar deploying the OBOR initiative, has western reaches of the Indian Ocean could then use Chinese built routes demonstrated a level of ambition and and the sub-continental landmass, to access Central Asian and Russian imagination, which is mostly absent south of Eurasia but linked to it. If destinations as well as Europe. It in India’s national discourse. It is my this were indeed possible then India may be more important to deploy earnest hope that the presentations would have an opportunity to deal our limited resources to build the that are made today will help both with the challenge of the Chinese Indian Ocean network of ports, with scholars and practitioners to think geo-strategic realm on its doorstep connecting highways and rail routes and act strategically on issues such with greater room for manoeuvre. such as exemplified by the planned as OBOR which will have a significant I have argued before and wish to Mekong-Ganga corridor and the impact on India’s vital interests. Sittwe- Mizoram multi-modal restate again: If there is one country transport corridor. There have CONCLUSION which has the potential to catch up been longstanding plans to develop with China and even overtake it, it is OBOR is President Xi’s most the deep water port on Sri Lanka’s only India. The current asymmetry is ambitious foreign and economic eastern coast, Trincomalee, as a policy initiative. Much of the not written in stone. What will it take major energy and transport hub and recent discussion has concerned India to achieve this long-term goal yet despite the warning message in the geopolitical aspects of the is well-known and I will not repeat the shape of Chinese building the initiative. There is little doubt that it. Hambantota port in southern Sri the overarching objective of the Currently, India has neither the Lanka, and expanding the Colombo initiative is helping China to achieve resources nor the political and port, virtually no work has been geopolitical goals by economically

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR countries more closely to Beijing. President Xi’s grand vision, some Secretary,Government of India and But there are many more concrete have urged caution both publicly and Mr. Peter Cai, Fellow, Lowy Institute and economic objectives behind in private. for International Policy, Australia. OBOR that should not be obscured Their appetite to fund projects BALIPARA FOUNDATION by a focus on strategy. and ability to handle the complex Assam • India The most achievable of OBOR’s investment environment beyond goals and social influence will be its China’s border will shape the speed www.baliparafoundation.com contribution to upgrading China’s and the scale of OBOR. There is Registered Office: Balipara Tract & manufacturing capabilities. Given a general recognition that this Frontier Foundation, House No. – Beijing’s ability to finance projects initiative will be a decade-long 5, B.P. Baruah Road, 1st Bye Lane, and its leverage over recipients undertaking and many are treading Narikalbari, Guwahati - 781024, of these loans, China’s high-end carefully. Assam, India. • Society Registration industrial goods such as high-speed No. KAM/240/A8/473 (Kamrup, rail, power generation equipment, The distinguished speakers of my Assam, India) Field Office: Balipara and telecommunications equipment panel from China, Pakistan, India Tract & Frontier Foundation, c\o are likely to be used widely in OBOR and Bangladesh, I am sure, will Wild Mahseer, Addabarie Tea Estate, countries. More questionable, highlight the plenary session with P.O. Lokra, Sonitpur - 784 102, however, is whether China’s detailed up scaling and possible Assam, India. Mumbai Office: 201- neighbours will be willing to absorb downscaling even more specifically. 202 Windfall, Sahar Plaza Complex, its excess industrial capacity. The This speech has been delivered MathuradasVasanji Road, Near Hotel Kohinoor continental, J. B. lack of political trust between China by Mr. Ranjit Barthakur - Founder Nagar, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 059 and some of our countries, as well and Trustee, Balipara Foundation, India Email: baliparafoundation@ as instability and security threats in Chairman - Amalgamated gmail.com, ranjit.barthakur@ others, are considerable obstacles. Plantation and Advisor - Tata baliparafoundation.com Page 11 of Chinese bankers are likely to Consultancy Services.This speech 11 play a key role in determining the includes references to the success of OBOR. Though they have document and article written by -Ranjit Barthakur, Founding expressed their public support for Mr. Shyam Saran, Former Foreign Chairman, 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 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

BDMS Unit Opens Medical Lab in Yangon

National Healthcare System Co Ltd annual revenue was US $90 million aims to provide standard analytical (N Health), a healthcare business for the year 2016 and its shows a services including medical check- unit owned by Bangkok Dusit Medical 25% increase year-on-year which is ups for small and medium-sized Services Plc (BDMS), has opened the result of its business expansion. hospitals as well as walk-in a medical laboratory in Yangon in In Thailand, BDMS provides system customers. In order to register itself partnership with some local firms. services and products supporting the N Health considers this investment hospital business such as diagnostic in Myanmar, N Health has partnered in Myanmar as just a first step as testing, biomedical engineering, with two local healthcare companies it has plans of opening up various sterile processing, hospital linen - Bahosi Hospital and Sea Lion management, telemedicine and other branches in this region. After Group. As a partner in this alliance, medical equipment supplies. Myanmar, the firm plans to spread N Health will bear 60 % of the total its operations in Cambodia and after In Myanmar, it will focus on operating US $ 2.5 million investmentin this that further ahead in Indonesia and the medical laboratory which will lab while it’s two partners will put the Philippines. They want to spread support large hospitals for high- their reach and provide high quality end genetic tests, allergy tests in 20 % each. N Health Myanmar preventive healthcare services to and evaluations for tuberculosis, plans to open another laboratory in much more people. The company’s malaria and dengue fever. It also Mandalay in the near future. 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 FORBES GIVES MYANMAR MARKETING MASTER COVETED CAPITALIST HONOR

Myanmar has made it onto Forbes In 2016, Amara’s revenue grew by included in this prestigious list, Ms. Magazine’s “30 Under 30 Asia” list 400 percent to reach US $ 200,000. Chan said: “Comparing to other for the second year consecutively. It has served clients such as Nok honorees from different countries Ms. Chan MyaeKhine, founder and Air, VietJet, Singapore Tourism in this year’s list, my achievement Board, Cherry Mobile, Oppo, and the CEO of Amara Digital Marketing is next to nothing. Yet, I am grateful Agency, is listed as one of the Singapore Institute of Management.” for getting featured while leading an honorees for Media, Marketing Ms. Chan opened her marketing independent agency fully owned by & Advertising category this year. firm Amara in partnership with locals. As Forbes looks at company’s Ms. Chan’s Forbes profile says the her husband Mr. KyawMyoKhine. results rather than individual’s following: “Khine is responsible Previously she studied at Yangon achievements, this recognition is for the first ever digital marketing University of Foreign Languages agency in Myanmar, which is also and National University of Singapore mainly the result of my colleagues. completely self-funded. Amara and then she started working in I would love to see more Burmese manages digital marketing projects Singapore in both IT related and making to the list under various for local and international clients. marketing roles. In relation to being categories in upcoming years.” ACCOR HOTELS TO OPEN 5 NEW HOTELS IN MYANMAR BY 2019

in Myanmar, the company has signed a management contract with SC Capital Partners Group. The management contract will make it possible to rebrand the seven-story Micasa Hotel Apartments Yangon to Mercure Yangon Kaba Aye by July 2017. The new Mercure is located in close proximity to the famous Shwedagon Golden Pagoda. It offers 143 apartments and 40 deluxe rooms to its customers. As per company’s Chief Operating International hotel chain operator Officer (CEO) Mr. Patrick Basset, of its hotels operating in Myanmar. AccorHotels plans to expand its the company is opening five new These hotels include, The Lake properties by the year 2019 as a base by opening five new hotels Garden Nay Pyi Taw, MGallery by part of the larger strategy to expand in Myanmar by the year 2019. its footprint in Myanmar. A press Sofitel, Novotel Yangon Max, Novotel In order to re-brand an existing release issued by AccorHotels Inle Lake Myat Min, and ibis Styles

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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

KIAN JOO MAKES MYANMAR A PRIORITY IN OVERSEAS EXPANSION

Kian Joo Can Factory Bhd plans Malaysia. Till now it has only been these two plants that are under to continue strengthening its exporting products to Myanmar construction, Kian Joo has 18 plants presence in Myanmar. It aims but now it intends to replicate the in Malaysia and three plants in to do so by opening up two new same business model that it has Vietnam. It also has a 20 acres plot manufacturing plants in the in Malaysia in this country as well. of land in Indonesia which it has country. The construction of these The construction of these two kept reserved for now but will utilize manufacturing plants has already manufacturing plants requires an in the future to further its growth. begun and they both are located in investment of around US $ 23.5 Kian Joo’s Malaysian operations the Thilawa Special Economic Zone. million. The group anticipates generate the largest revenue; US One of these plants is for Kian Joo’s spending another US $ 81.6 million can production and the second one $ 219 million for the full financial to set up both plants and their is for its subsidiary named Box- year. This made 54.7 % of its total production facilities. Pak (M) which will manufacture revenue while Vietnam was at the corrugated cartons. Kian Joo has tin The commercial production is second place by generating around can, box carton manufacturing and expected to begin at the plants US $ 129 and contributing 32.3 % of

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY contract packaging capabilities in before the end of 2018. Besides company’s revenue.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR INVESTMENT

NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA ACQUIRES 22% IN MYANMAR PAYMENTS OUTFIT ONGO

National Bank of Canada has stated,“The addition of NBC as a in Myanmar. It has partnered with acquired a 22 per cent stake in strategic investor will strengthen Coca-Cola and Myanmar Oriental ONGO, a leading mobile payments our capabilities and accelerate our Bank in Myanmar and presently provider in Myanmar. ONGO is timelines in Myanmar as well as our provides payroll services; P2P backed by Ronoc Asia, a subsidiary expansion to other markets in the money transfer, B2B payments and of the Ronoc which is an investment region.” The terms of the deals have phone bill top ups and utility bill firm focusing on emerging markets. not been disclosed. payments using their application. As The Founder and Chairman of Ronoc per the company, it has more than Asia/ONGO, Mr. Michael Madden Ronoc was founded by Mr. 200 cash agent locations in Yangon. stated, “The addition of National Michael Madden in 2007 and is The availability of mobile financial Bank of Canada is an important headquartered in Dublin. It focusses milestone for our business. We on retail financial services and services in Myanmar is on the rise. have aggressive growth plans for fintech in emerging markets. However, this is very new for the Myanmar and have set ourselves a ONGO was launched in Myanmar local population which is used to goal of providing over one million near the end of the year 2016 and handling cash and therefore the consumers with access to finance just in few months it has already usage of these services might take

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR NATION NEWS

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

NORTHERN ALLIANCE ESTABLISHES A NEW NEGOTIATING BODY TO MEET WITH GOVERNMENT

The four Northern Alliance members joined the original four alliance UWSA leader Mr. BaoYouxiang urged announced they will no longer meet groups which include the Ta’ang the ethnic armed organizations to with the government separately but National Liberation Army (TNLA), cooperate and find strength in unity. only jointly through a committee. the Arakan Army (AA), the Kachin He told the attending groups that This new committee was formed at Independence Army (KIA) and the ethnic groups have formed many Pangkham during a summit from Myanmar National Democratic political alliances in the past but April 15-19. The decision was taken Alliance Army (MNDAA). they all disappeared due to a lack after a meeting that was held at the of common political direction.The Wa Army’s summit. The committee government’s peace commission is named The Union Political had been planning on meeting with Dialogue Negotiation Committee the TNLA, the AA and the MNDAA (UPDNC) and it includes seven before Thingyan, but the meeting ethnic armed organizations. It was has not yet taken place. All previous formed when The Shan State Army attempts by the Government to (SSA), the National Democratic meet the Northern Alliance groups

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Alliance Army (NDAA) and the UWSA UNITED WA STATE ARMY FLAG individually have also failed.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR nation news

MS. SUU KYI SAYS PEACE CONFERENCE AGREEMENTS ARE A SIGNIFICANT STEP

At the closing ceremony of the participated in negotiating the key encouraged that despite our many second 21st Century Panglong terms of the federal principles, such different views and perspectives, in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s State as those concerning secession from we have been able, through frank Counselor Ms. Suu Kyi said that the Union and equality between the discussion and negotiation, to reach these negotiations mark a significant Tatmadaw and the ethnic armed common positions,” she further step toward future democratic organizations. She stated: “The added. After the negotiations, federalism in Myanmar. Even agreements that we have been able stakeholder representatives from though these meetings saw some to sign today mark a significant step the government, Parliament, the disagreements among the Myanmar on our path toward peace, national Burma Army, political parties, Government, the political parties, reconciliation, and the emergence and ethnic armed groups who were signatories to the nationwide the Tatmadaw and the ethnic armed of a democratic federal Union. ceasefire agreement (NCA) agreed to organizations, the members of Reaching these agreements has not 37 of 41 basic federal principles and the Union Peace Dialogue Joint been easy; we have encountered signed part 1 of the Union Accord. Committee (UPDJC) are optimistic. moments of disappointment as well However, key principles regarding UPDJC was the organizer of this as inspiration along the way.” equality, self-determination and event and it feels that the conference She said that the foundations for federalism have not yet been achieved its aims to some extent. democracy and federalism for included in the accord, and further During this event, the chairperson future generations have been laid discussion would continue in this

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY of the UPDJC Daw Aung San Suu Kyi through dialogue.“Yet I am greatly regard.

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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 BURMESE FOOD COULD BE THE NEXT GLOBAL CULINARY PHENOMENON

Myanmar’s rise from the ashes of political turmoil, cultural stagnancy and severe isolation is a monumental historic feat. The ushering in of democracy has adequately released it from the unsparing shackles of military suppression and has catapulted it onto the expansive path of progress, aggressive aspirations, development and integration with the mainstream global canvas. Buried in its shadowy past has been its most delectable and distinct food experience, popularly known as the Burmese cuisine. Inhabited by various ethnicities and nationalities, Burmese food specialty varies from Htamin Jin, Burmese rice region to region; each region serving From driving the country’s economy Mohinga or Mohinka. It is a favorite a specific delicacy with their own as being world’s largest exporter, dish among the locals, enjoyed as recipe and style of cooking. In effect, rice has become the bedrock diet for breakfast and also as a filler light a trek through Myanmar’s coast many people in Myanmar. Htamin towards the inland or traversing the snack in between meals. These northern and southern regions of Jin in Burmese, rice is usually round rice noodles are served in Myanmar are sure to delight one’s served with curry, soup and multiple fish paste and shallot broth with epicurean journey. condiments that a Burmese cuisine a hint of onion garlic adding to the is characterized of. Either boiled or flavor. Topped with veggies, boiled An authentic Burmese palette relished as flat noodles, from being eggs, sliced banana pith and akyaw blends in varied flavors –hot, sweet, a breakfast or a light snack to being sour and salty, by serving multiple fritters, it is usually sprinkled with savored as a dessert on the streets, side dishes and accompaniments dried chili, lime and coriander. it remains the backbone of any along with the main dish. For Its preparation varies throughout Burmese meal. example, bitter leaves, dried chilies the region, depending upon the and salty fish paste may accompany Rice noodles or locally known as availability of ingredients. a mild curry. It is this richness that makes it so unique and appetizing, A salad for Burmese people is an and worthy of being placed on the aggregation and experimentation global cuisine frontier. with diverse elements. An unusual Situated on the crossroads of mixture of everything which is gigantic civilizations of China and crunchy, salty, spicy and sour is India, and bordering the countries concocted as a salad. Laphet Thoke, of Laos, Thailand and Bangladesh, the most popular and thoroughly Myanmar has naturally and inadvertently acquired their distinct enjoyed salad constitutes pickled characters and culinary influence, green tea leaves interfused with while exploring and retaining its own amalgamation of sauces, and novelty. From the gamut of Chinese crunchy and sour assortments; dumplings and boiled vegetables to sesame, shrimps, ginger, lime, the Indian inspired curries, samosa and biryani, Myanmar staple food fish sauce, peanut oil, peas, nuts has remained constant for years: etcetera. It can be served as a snack

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY rice. Mohinga or accompany a plate of rice.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE

Laphet Thoke Nan gyi Thoke, dry rice noodles in the shape of spaghetti is also a salad based dish, relished with chicken, fish curry and garnished with chickpea flour, chilies and turmeric. Khow Suey Another dish that exhibits Shan specialty and deserves to be mentioned is fish rice or commonly called Shan style rice. Served with the sides of raw garlic and leek roots, it’s oily and is cooked in turmeric. Curried noodle soup, Khow Suey, is another dish fundamental to Burmese cuisine. Its ingredients involve coconut milk, curried chicken and egg noodles. Like any other Burmese dish, this too gets accompanied by disparate condiments. However, as per the availability of ingredients, its recipe can be tailored to one’s preference. Nan gyi Thoke Tea houses cannot be given a miss while talking about the eclectic Burmese cuisine. These are the small and scattered tea and snack hubs brimming with voices greeting political affairs and social customs with great gusto and zest. Bursting with a medley of Chinese, Indian and local dishes; noodles, steam buns, samosas, the local tradition of teashops have evolved as an integral part of the Burmese cuisine. Burmese desserts, colloquially termed as moun, usually gets its sweet flavor from its corresponding ingredients than sugar itself; sticky rice, fruits, grated coconuts act as sweeteners. Moreover, they are relished as snacks like semolina flour with coconut milk, pancakes with raisons etcetera. If the food trajectory of Myanmar feeds the non- vegetarians quite sufficiently, vegetarians are served adequately well too with fresh vegetables and fruits available abundantly. Also, the Buddhist sanctity prevalent in the country makes vegan diet an essential Shan Noodles part of everyday life of Myanmar. The Northern interiors of Myanmar are famous for Shan With Burmese bounty ready to be served on the world Noodles, reflecting country’s predominant Buddhist group’s delectable food trails. Served in chicken or pork platter, and geared to exhibit its vast regional spread broth, it is seasoned with garlic oil and sesame with through plethora of its native treats and cuisine, the pickled vegetables. In comparison to southern or coastal World awaits Myanmar’s food treasures to satiate Burmese noodles, Shan noodles are bland and simple in its South East Asian appetite in glory all renewed and

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

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR WILDLIFE 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 WILDLIFE MATTERS

BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER ISLANDS: EMERGING CORRIDORS FOR TIGERS

The Brahmaputra valley acts as a Kaziranga National Park to Nameri WWF India's conservation program vital link for wildlife populations by National Park. The tiger is believed in the North Bank and Kaziranga- facilitating the movement of various to have covered an approximate KarbiAnglong Landscapes has large mammals between numerous distance of 90 kilometers -swimming emphasized the maintenance of Protected Areas in central Assam. across the Brahmaputra River, habitat connectivity between forest Key tiger habitats in the flood plains using river islands, moving through patches in the Brahmaputra river of the Brahmaputra include Orang a vast expanse of agricultural land, valley. NP, Laokhowa and Burachapori and even fording the busy National Brahmaputra River Island Survey Wildlife Sanctuaries and Kaziranga Highway 52. The persistence of NP. Nameri National Park and Pakke tigers in this landscape requires To investigate the use of Tiger Reserve are located at the that viable meta-populations exist; Brahmaputra islands by tigers and Northern end of the Brahmaputra animals can successfully move other wildlife, and document the basin, along the border of Assam between various PAs and habitat extent and intensity of human use in and Arunachal Pradesh.Kaziranga patches via the Brahmaputra River these areas, WWF India and the State and Orang National Parks support Islands and through the agricultural Forest Department collaboratively the largest extant tiger populations matrix. initiated a series of island surveys in in north-east India and Kaziranga 2010. These surveys were designed Connectivity between various forest NP has been recognized to serve as to assess functionality of the riverine fragments that support tigers a 'source site' for the entire region. islands as corridors for dispersing has drastically reduced in recent The Brahmaputra ecosystem is the wildlife (primarily, carnivores decades on account of increasing not only a stronghold of tigers, but and prey species) from Kaziranga human pressure and growing is also home to a plethora of other NP to proximate habitat patches. habitations along the river bank wildlife species, several of which and on the islands. In addition, Surveys encompassed the islands only occur lowlands abutting the flood-dynamics of the Brahmaputra on the Brahmaputra River between Himalayan ranges. River result in annual creation of the eastern end of Kaziranga NP and Photographic evidence from new river islands, even as some western end of Orang NP. Thus far, camera traps has revealed that existing islands are washed away. WWF India has carried out the survey tigers may traverse long distances Habitat integrity and connectivity in four phases (2010-11, 2012-13, in the Brahmaputra Basin, using has also been compromised by 2015-16 and 2016-17). The first river networks and even moving increasing human pressure on the phase covered the islands between through human dominated areas. Laokhowa and Burachapori wildlife Laokhowa and Burachapori WLS For example, in 2013, a tiger was sanctuaries in recent decades. and Kaziranga NP. In the second

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY documented to have moved from Recognizing these challenges, phase, the islands between Orang

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR WILDLIFE MATTERS NP and Laokhowa and Burachapori WLS were covered. During the third phase in 2015-16, the survey covered portions of three major tributaries of the Brahmaputra i.e. JiaBhoroli, Borgang and Buroi which serve as connecting links between Kaziranga NP - Nameri NP, and Kaziranga NP - Behali Reserve Forest. Concurrently, we also carried out a socio economic assessment of human settlements on the river islands to map and understand anthropogenic pressures and threats. The most recent survey was conducted between November 2016 and January 2017 from eastern point of Kaziranga NP to Kolia Bhomora bridge. During this phase, camera trap sampling was carried out for a 20 day period along with sign surveys. 14 pairs of camera traps were used in 14 different islands to record photographic evidence of animal use. Sign surveys were an important part captured, while water buffalo, management perspectives. Thus, of the river island surveys. Such sign surveys involved sampling swamp deer, elephant, sambar, wild jurisdiction and law enforcement islands on foot transects to detect boar, and hog deer were sighted on needs to be strengthened to ensure indirect evidence for the presence transect surveys. protection of these ever important of wildlife (eg. tracks, spoor, wildlife habitats that also serve scrapes, scent markings). Visual Of the 45 river islands surveyed, as vital corridors. Information detections of mammals were also more than 50 % had human generated through these series of recorded. Survey effort (transect habitations. People belonging to five surveys has been used to influence length) varied between 0.5 and 2km, different communities are found to and inform decision making for depending on the size of the islands, have occupied these islands, mostly proper protection and management and other field conditions including on a seasonal basis, with livestock of this unique ecosystem, and there accessibility. rearing and agriculture being is increased patrolling by forest their mainstay. Incidents of human Results and Outcomes guards on a number of islands wildlife conflict are very common in adjacent to Kaziranga National During the Brahmaputra River the islands, mainly by way of crop Park. In the coming years, WWF Island Survey, evidence of tiger depredation by large herbivores India in collaboration with various presence was detected in 18 of (elephants, deer and wild boar) and Government Departments intends livestock depredation by tigers and the river islands, including direct to take up initiatives to ensure sighting of a tiger in Hatibalu Chapori leopards. However, there has been the protection and management of Bishwanath Range of Kaziranga no systematic documentation of of the much crucial islands of NP. During the second phase of the conflict by Government agencies. the Brahmaputra River. Efforts survey, presence of tiger cubs was The Way forward will also be undertaken to reduce also recorded in Kartika Chapori. anthropogenic pressure in these Evidence of breeding tigresses on The Brahmaputra River Island the islands may be indicative of the surveys revealed the presence of islands by taking steps to reduce fact that some islands may in fact lie several endangered mammals on impacts of local communities on within the territorial boundaries of islands. These islands serve as wildlife habitats, and also garner some tigers. stepping stones and may provide their support for the conservation. connectivity between some of In addition to tigers, the presence of -Courtesy: WWF India Assam's most important PAs. other carnivores was also detected on most of the islands. In the 2016 The ephemeral nature of river islands camera trap survey, tigers, rhinos, and their relative inaccessibility has fishing cat, jackal, sambar, hog resulted in being neglected from

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR MYANMAR INDIA CONNECT 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 –North East Connect - Business MYANMAR INDIA CONNECT

TRIPURA REVISES IIPIS TO ATTRACT INVESTMENT AND EMPLOYMENT

Tripura is transforming itself into an and providing incentives for markets. Hassle-free operations immensely valuable business and Agri-businesses are some of the have given Bangladesh the trade destination. Brimming with prominent facets driving the state’s confidence to provide accessibility natural landscape and manmade economic engine of growth. to its seaport at Chittagong and river marvels of infrastructures, its With the recent revision in Industrial port at Ashuganj. economy is exploding with the Investment Promotion and Incentive Known for pragmatism and excitement of new possibilities and scheme (IIPIS) 2012, Tripura has circumspect vision, Chief Minister fruitful collaborations. accoutered infrastructural and Mr. Manik Sarkar has fueled the However, it is a matter of utmost logistic support, along with capital state of Tripura with investment importance to harness the transition subsidy being raised from 30 to 35% beckoning opportunities, specifically from a remote, neglected region of the fixed capital investment. for establishing small and medium to becoming North East’s most With dismissal of bottlenecks and scale units. The rich reservoir of productive and nationally rewarding ease in connectivity between India natural resources like bamboo, state. Employment based subsidies, and Bangladesh, the investment rubber, tea and natural gas make revamping investment topography, windows have been generously the investment pool even more enriching IT and software segments flung open to welcome South Asian expansive and wide-ranging. 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 Connect

Tripura’s Chief Minister Mr. Manik Sarkar NORTH EAST INDIA’S LARGEST IT HUB OPENS IN TRIPURA

Extolling Tripura's industriousness prominent IT companies of India to accessibility to the door step of in Information and Technology commence their business; making people is also an important aspect sector and it's excellence in the utmost use of the beneficial services being looked forward to and awaits endeavor of e-governance, Central and holistic facilities that sprouted the test of time. government awarded the state with with the establishment of North Tripura booming with English accolades and rewards. East India's sixth and largest IT hub, skilled IT educated youth and now costing 50 crores. With the potential to generate and supplemented with the upcoming boost employment opportunities Motivating and inspiring the new IT hub in the North-East, would for its IT schooled individuals, age spirit of entrepreneurship; surely reap benefits from its Northeast's largest IT hub was beckoning start-up companies to the close proximity with Bangladesh. inaugurated in Tripura by its Chief new haven of IT hub can be rendered Capitalizing on its qualified Minister Mr. Manik Sarkar, along as a positive and promising initiative, personnel and infrastructural with IT and Education Minister Mr. underscoring Government of India’s development, Tripura could prove Tapan Chakraborty and Mr. Omkar ideology of ‘Start-up’ culture and to be an asset for Bangladesh’s Rai, Director General of Software ‘Digital India’. nascent IT industry, thereby driving Technology Parks of India (STPI). The effectual impact resulting in economic enhancement for itself by The decision was rolled out with the the export of software technology doubling Bangladesh’s IT exports by

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY enthusiastic vision to encourage and furnishing e-governance 2017.

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

BSNL TO CONNECT ALL ASSAM GPS THROUGH OPTICAL FIBRE IN 2017-18

Influx of new digital ventures or accessibility to television, internet Assam. Along with that multiple Wi- giving digital makeover to old and and telephone through a single point Fi hotspots spanning through the traditional structures, India, subtly will enable youth to be academically optical fiber route have also been yet swiftly is becoming part of a inclined and become literate in a installed. smart culture. The most recent manner, more direct and digital. sector to embrace this innovative Target of one lakh people becoming The whole arrangement is change is India’s most venerable part of this electronic revolution has tantamount to elevation of telecom service provider-BSNL. been targeted for 2020. rural conditions for education With the intent to empower rural Under the probable plan, about 1500 and business. Trickling down connectivity and development, gram panchayats shall be covered technological know-how to the optical fiber has been laid in gram under this scheme; 70 % of the total lowest tier in the society is a mark of

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY panchayats of Assam by BSNL. Easy gram panchayats in the state of growth and development.

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

NGT IN CONFLICT WITH MEGHALAYA GOVT. OVER COAL MINING

Rampant commercial mining policy that substantially caters to severely damaged and has exhausted with least adherence to healthy the protection of the environment. its biological productive strength environmental impact has led However, the government of owing to coal mining. Acidification of National Green Tribunal (NGT) to Meghalaya has challenged the ban its water has hampered its marine probe into the matter and take strict on the grounds of Constitutional life and rendered it unsuitable for actions, leading to time bound ban guidelines wherein the 6th schedule human consumption. on coal mining activities in the state gives Meghalaya the choice to seek of Meghalaya. Thus, it is imperative to comprehend exemption from central laws due to the urgency that surrounds the issue This intervention by NGT is a its tribal status. result of reckless and unchecked and be addressed holistically and If the ban persists, the commercial transportation of coal extracts expediently. Scientific measures gains accruing from these unlawful taking place on a massive scale, and significance of green life needs activities would surely get thwarted surpassing the limits imposed to be given precedence over illegal, and arrested. The web of coal by the authorities. In its quest unethical ways of mining and mine owners, politicians and the to ensure clean and sustainable agents benefitting from the rush mindless deforestation. environment to the citizens of the of money from these coal mines country, specifically the wellbeing National Green Tribunal operates could disarray their settlement and of the laborers and the inhabitants through this empowering paradigm change their dynamics during the residing around the coal activities of clean and green ways, advocating time of election. laden areas, NGT has promulgated development in a manner more

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

India’s P.M. Mr. Narendra Modi PM NARENDRA MODI INAUGURATES INDIA’S LONGEST BRIDGE IN ASSAM

Commemorating the late Assamese commenced in 2011 with the vision social status of the ‘Seven Rainbow music maestro Mr. Bhupen Hazarika to aid the military with facilitate States’ and its citizens can be gauged while completing 3years as the passage to the border areas of China, through his determination to lead Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi more smoothly and seamlessly. this project to its culmination. His instituted India’s longest bridge The structure’s strength to endure efforts involved in integrating the connecting Dhola in Arunachal heavy military tanks and machinery north eastern states to mainstream Pradesh from Sadiya in Assam. This would serve as a huge asset in the India deserve appreciation. infrastructural splendor is a jewel coming times. Since years, the north eastern shining bright, remarking the pride states have suffered alienation of Seven Sister states. and non-inclusive treatment from The bridge would ensure quicker the locals and the officials alike; road connectivity and accessibility, inviting notions of disunity and mitigating the travel time by 4 long disengagement .However, with the hours. Its three lane construction inauguration of India’s longest spans through a length of 9.15km bridge; 30% longer than Mumbai’s over and above the grandeur Bandra -Worli sea link, Mr. Modi of Brahamaputra’s tributary has embarked upon the path of river-Lohit. This is a great step unity in diversity, more aggressively assuring productivity in fuel usage, than ever , with the trumpeting cost efficiency and the possible of economic and infrastructural hydropower projects paving way to resuscitation of the north eastern economic remunerative gains. states which would act as the This architectural marvel’s strategic Dr.Bhupen Hazarika, Assam, India microcosm to India’s mighty importance was a well -planned Mr. Modi’s interest in uplifting and potential to enhance its economic

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY and prudent endeavor which ameliorating the economic and development and GDP growth.

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

INDIA’S NEWEST IRIS SPECIES FOUND IN MANIPUR

The popular flower of Manipur, been mistakenly named as Iris recognition and attention stemmed fondly known as Kombirei by the Bakeri wall. Presently, it is declining from its pictures being sent to the locals of Manipur has been accorded Royal Botanic Gardens in London from its native habitat. with the ‘new species’ status-Iris where it was categorized as the Laevigata Fisch. Until now it had The recent course of its name critically endangered species.

Species like Iris Wattii, Iris Singuinea and Iris Kumaon also inhabit the state of Manipur. However, kombirei germinates from the wetlands of Lamphelpat and Yaralpat outskirting the town of Imphal.

This mauve-blue flower has a flowering period of about 15 days in April every year and annually, it also forms an integral part of the rich tradition of Manipur’s New

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Year celebration as well.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Our Beautiful Neighbours - Bhutan

KINGDOM OF BHUTAN REMAINS INDIA’S BIGGEST FOREIGN-AID RECIPIENT

The Kingdom of Bhutan has always and some African countries among pre-2007-08 period, Nepal was the had good relations with India. others. However, the aid given second-largest recipient in all years For the last 17 years it has also to other countries by India has except three, when Bangladesh remained the biggest beneficiary fluctuated over the years while in held that position. Before the of Indian foreign aid by both case of Bhutan it has always been amount and share. Bhutan has constant. financial year 2007-08, the foreign remained India’s unfailing priority ministry did not even report aid for because of its strategic location, Over the last nine years, Afghanistan Afghanistan individually. However, its dependence on India and its has made it to the second spot and hydropower potential. Besides has been preferred over Nepal in eight of last 10 years, Afghanistan Bhutan, India provides aid to various and Bangladesh which have been has held the second spot by share. other countries not only from this the traditional recipients. Indian Bhutan’s share has fallen by 10.45 aid to Sri Lanka has seen a lot of region but from other parts of the percentage points in the last 17 world as well. Other countries that fluctuations; it fell 69% year-on- years as other countries have been India has been providing financial year in the financial year 2016-17, aid to include Afghanistan, Nepal, and rose 118% and 166% in 2012- eating into its share but yet it has

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives 13 and 2009-10 respectively. In the consistently held the first spot.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Our Beautiful Neighbours - Bhutan

WIDENING WORKS DISCONNECT TANGSIBJI MINI HYDEL

Tangsibji mini hydel was This hydel power plant being closed in Bhutan and it generates 37.5 KVA. disconnected on May 30, 2017. does not have much impact on the Mr. Taugay Choidup, Chief Engineer life of the people in the village. This plant lit around 43 houses in of DoR in Trongsa, stated that he was However, Mr. Leki feels that it Tangsibji village in Trongsa in the unaware that a mini hydel is located remaining functional is important 80s. The boulders that were dug below the highway. He further as it was a gift to them from Japan out during the East-West highway stated that what they were informed and holds sentimental value. The widening works blocked the water energy that the plant generates is is that there is an irrigation channel at the intake point in the middle synchronized with the eastern grid. below and the contractor has left of December 2016. Mr. Karma Mr. Phub Dorji, BPC’s assistant the cutting incomplete at a stretch Leki, Bhutan Power Corporation’s technician stated that this plant has near Zalamchu fearing disruption (BPC) Division Manager in Trongsa never broken down before,unlike to paddy cultivation. The cutting is said that he has written to the many other mini hydels in the planned to resume after the village Department of Roads (DoR) to have country. He further said that the completes paddy cultivation.The the blockade and damages cleared engine is in good condition and can mini hydel is located a little above at the earliest as the boulders are resume generation once the block is the Tangsibji village and is about 10

CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY huge and cannot be cleared by men. cleared. This mini Hydel is one of 10 minutes walk from the village road.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Our Beautiful Neighbours - Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s Finance Minister Mr. AbulMaal A.Muhith BANGLADESH HOPES SPEEDIER IMPLEMENTATION OF INDIA-AIDED PROJECTS

Bangladesh is hopeful that the India- The announcement for this line of new amount it takes the total to US assisted developmental projects concessional credit was announced $ 6 billion. Mr. Muhit said that the in the country will be implemented by India’s Prime Minister Mr. implementation of projects under quickly. “The hope has risen after Narendra Modi during Bangladesh’s the previous assistance package the Indian Government announced a Prime Minister Ms. Sheikh Hasina’s fresh US $ 4.5 billion aid package”, visit to India in April 2017. India took longer than expected but he stated Mr. AbulMaal A.Muhith who is previously promised financial aid hopes that this time these projects theFinance Minister of Bangladesh. of US $ 1.5 billion and adding this will be implemented quickly.

The bilateral aid package and projects associated with it were discussed in a bilateral meeting with visiting Indian Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley. This meeting was led by Mr. Muhith and various important issues and topics were discussed in detail. Mr. Muhit said that Bangladesh getting a US $ 6 billion credit line from India is quite a remarkable event. He further stated that even though the financial aid from China is much more and amounts to US $ 22 billion but Indian projects are time oriented and implemented quickly while there is no such timeline for Chinese aid. He also expressed his happiness at seeing that Indian private sector investment is now flowing into Indian Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY Bangladesh.

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CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY’S WIN IN MYANMAR Our Beautiful Neighbours - Bangladesh

BHEL BAGS RS 10,000 CRORE CONTRACT FROM BANGLADESH

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited manufacturer. The company has the project will be manufactured (BHEL) has bagged its largest-ever arranged debt financing for the at BHEL’s Trichy, Haridwar, export order which is valued at project from Exim bank for which Hyderabad, Ranipet, Bhopal, Rs. 10,000 crore. This order is for loan agreement between Exim bank Bangalore and Jhansi plants. The setting up a thermal power project and BIFPCL was signed in March responsibility for the construction in Bangladesh. The Indian company 2017. and installation activities at site will lie upon the company’s power sector was able to win this contract in spite BHEL’s scope of work in the project construction division. BHEL has of very hard and competitive bidding. includes design, engineering, done some projects in Bangladesh The order has been secured from manufacture, supply, construction, earlier as well which include 100 Bangladesh-India Friendship Power erection, testing and commissioning MW Baghabari Gas Turbine Power Company Limited (BIFPCL) which of the 1320 MW thermal sets with Project and 2x120 MW Siddhirganj is a 50:50 joint venture between ultra-supercritical parameters on in Bangladesh. It has also set up 220 NTPC and Bangladesh Power turnkey basis. It will also set up a KV Baghabari & Ishurdi substations. Development Board (BPDB). BHEL jetty and a river-water intake system. is India's largest power equipment The main equipment to be used by CONTENT COMPILED AND EDITED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES FOR NON-COMMERCIAL RESEARCH PRIVATE STUDY. CIRCULATION ONLY

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