Union minister of state for rural development Agatha Sangma (right) with Irom Sharmila in Imphal on Wednesday. Picture by Eastern Projections

Imphal, June 17: The new Union minister of state for rural development, Agatha Sangma, today called on governments in the region to play a “proactive role” in implementing schemes in the Northeast sponsored by the Centre.

Sangma arrived here this morning to attend 11th Foundation Day of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) organised by the state unit of the party at the G.M. Hall here. This is her first visit to Manipur after becoming a minister.

“My mission is to build the economy of the region without affecting cultural heritage. I will play the agent of monitoring rural development schemes. The state governments and implementing agencies should extend their help,” Sangma said.

Attributing the problem of insurgency in the region to a lack of development, the minister said her next priority would be to channelise the energies of the youths towards development activities.

Sangma said she would also pay attention to capacity building through proper implementation of centrally sponsored schemes. “I will try to visit every nook and corner of the Northeast to ensure that the rural development schemes are implemented. Implementing agencies would be made accountable,” she said.

Before addressing the party function, Sangma visited Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital to meet human rights crusader Irom Sharmila, who is in judicial custody. “I wanted to meet such a courageous lady and show solidarity with her,” Sangma said.

During her interaction with Sharmila, Agatha assured her that the issue of repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act would be raised in Parliament.

Later this afternoon she met Governor Gurbachan Jagat and chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh. She will leave for Meghalaya tomorrow.