Guwahati, Jan 15 (KNN)  To facilitate easy and quick movement of perishable agricultural products and processed foods, Assam Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) is planning to set up a dedicated cargo terminal. 

Assam is traditionally rich in horticultural production due to its diverse and unique agro-climatic condition which is conducive for growing a wide range of horticultural crops like various fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, nuts, tuber crops and medicinal and aromatic plants.   In fact the world citrus belt encompasses Assam within it.

The air cargo terminal that will go a long way to market Assam’s rich produce will be set up at the LGB International Airport, here.

In this context, AIDC has called for proposals from the private sector to prepare a detailed project report and a techno-economic feasibility study. 

Organisations with experience in the creation of air cargo facility for perishable agro produces and processed food products are encouraged to apply for the same.

Assam Industrial Development Corporation Ltd. was incorporated in 1965 with the objectives of - identification and promotion of medium and large industrial projects in the state; implementation of the state government's package of incentives for entrepreneurs; providing financial assistance; participation in equity capital in public and private sector undertakings; rehabilitation and management of sick industries; providing technical, financial, managerial and consultancy services to entrepreneurs; development of human resources; providing infrastructural support; and facilitating export promotion.

Horticultural crops occupy about 15 per cent of the gross cultivated area of Assam and annually produce more than 15.0 lakh MT of fruits, 44.0 lakh MT of vegetables and 2.0 lakh MT of spices besides nut crops, flowers and medicinal and aromatic plants thus contributing significantly towards food and nutritional security of the state.  (KNN/ES)