Shillong ( Meghalaya), Feb 14 : An MoU was signed between the NEC Shillong, IIM Shillong and the MDoNER for continuing the operation of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis deepening engagement with IIM Shillong on 13-02-2024 at the NEC Secretariat, here and MDoNER joining through weblink.
The MoU was signed by Angshuman Dey, Joint Secretary MDoNER , Moses K Chalai, Secretary, NEC and Prof. D.P Goyal, Director, IIM Shillong in the presence of Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, MDoNER and other senior officials of DoNER, NEC and IIM Shillong.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis was created by a tripartite agreement between IIM Shillong and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and North Eastern Council signed on 15th October 2016. It aimed to emerge as a state-of-the-art center to assist the states of North East India and the implementing agencies to plan and executive the projects properly, promote innovations and function as a repository of best practices in the region.
Speaking at the occasion Prof D P Goyal, Director, IIM Shillong expressed his happiness and reflected upon the rich legacy of the late President Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam and his vision of development. He highlighted the key initiatives and interventions made by Dr Kalam Centre in recent years. He stressed that the extension of the MoU would further deepen the relation between the three important agencies and strengthen the commitment towards development of the north eastern region.
Moses Chalai, Secretary NEC expressed his satisfaction on how the Centre has emerged as per the expectation. He urged the centre to work on the policies, guidelines of the central government as per the aspiration of the region to keep them dynamic. He expresses happiness in completing the construction of the administrative building of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Centre which was sponsored by the Ministry of DoNER through NEC. He drew the attention of MDoNER for a formal inauguration of the centre.
Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, MDoNER conveyed his best wishes to the centre expecting it to emerge as an important think tank of the region. He highlighted the need for introducing North East Development Fellows through Dr. Kalam Centre from IIM Shillong which will have a significant impact in administration and bringing good governance in the region. He assured all possible support from MDoNER in developing the centre.
Atul Kulkarni, Member, Board of Governors, IIM Shillong who was present virtually, underlined the importance of Dr Kalam Centre in meeting the aspirations of the region, be it entrepreneurship, education, policy development or training, and facilitating the state government in delivering good governance.
With the extension of MoU, Dr. Kalam Centre is expected to work with more vigour and commitment.