Context:

=> The article has been written in context of the recent conflict held at Assam Mizoram border.

=> Assam Mizoram border is about 165 kilometre long.

=> There has been some dispute regarding the border based on interpretation by the two states.

=> Mizoram claims border should be according to Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1875 while claim of Assam is that the border should be according to to Government of India notification 1933.

=> Recently the dispute became violent where 6 policeman from Assam were martyred.

Content of the article:

=> Both Assam and Mizoram governments, in general, agree where the disputed areas lie.

=> Both governments want the region in order to have maximum benefits for own state.

=> The article suggests development of Joint Development Corridor/Zone in the disputed regions which can benefit both states and also bring overall economic development in NE India.

Joint Development Corridor/Zone:

=> Promote industrial activities along.

=> Multimodal transportation services.

=> Financial services like Banks, Insurance companies etc.

Benefits:

=> The economic potential of the region can be unlocked which so far has been constrained due to the border dispute.

Possible benefits:

1. Create jobs.

2. Market for local organic vegetables and fruits

• The region is rich in organic vegetables and fruits, many of which do not have access to supply chains or even nearby large markets.
• Multimodal transportation will unlock their potential.

3. Impetus to Act East Policy

• NE India is gateway of India for implementing Act East Policy.

4. Increased trade with border countries like Bhutan and Bangladesh.

5. Political stability in the region.

=> Joint Development Corridor/Zone cannot be done in notified forest areas. But it could be considered in the non-forested areas where disputes exist.