Ambassador of Unites States of America to India Richard Verma on Thursday called upon Governor of Jharkhand, Draupadi Murmu and Chief Minister Raghubar Das to scout around for opportunities of collaboration in trade and areas of co-operation between the western country and the Indian province. Verma was on a visit to Jharkhand as part of his countrywide tour to strengthen relations between India and USA.
During the meeting with the Governor, the American Ambassador discussed education system in the universities of Jharkhand and suggested that American teachers can also share knowledge with the students of various universities through internet. Verma praised India’s progress in the field of medical services and he appreciated single-window-system introduced by the State government for the growth of industries in the State.
The American Ambassador met Das at his residence and discussed investment and trade opportunities between Jharkhand and USA. Verma said that the current 150 billion American dollar business between India and America will be raised to 500 billion dollars.
The Chief Minister said that there is ample potential of investment in Jharkhand in the areas of mining, automobile, IT, defense, education and clean energy. The state has 40% minerals of the nation and land bank has been made to sort out the problems of land, added Das.
The CM further added that Jharkhand investment office has been opened in New Delhi where state related information can be obtained. Das informed the visiting Ambassador that Ranchi is proposed to be developed as a smart city and land has been identified for developing new capital.
Apprising Verma about various projects that would boost trade activities, the CM maintained that the Rail Ministry has been requested by the State government to connect Dhamra Port, Odisha with Ranchi even as Sahibganj port will be made to boost up inland waterways, IT Park, IIT, IIIT, Sports University are being opened to ensure availability of better human resource. Das proposed that America and Jharkhand should appoint a representative each to promote investment in the State.
Verma said that Kolkata based Consulate Officers can be made representatives. Moreover, Annual Strategic Meet between India and America scheduled to take place in May-June should also take place outside Delhi, Verma told adding further that there will be a separate session with the CMs of all states. The Ambassador also discussed joint venture in business and technology transfer with the CM.
“I had fruitful meetings with Chief Minister Raghubar Das and Governor Droupadi Murmu regarding the opportunities for strengthening collaboration in trade & investment, education, health, and anti-human trafficking efforts in Jharkhand. I am fascinated by Franz Gastler and the young YUWA girls endeavor to combat child marriage and human trafficking in rural India through sports. This was an insightful visit for me and I look forward to my next visit here. I am only the second US Ambassador to visit Jharkhand, but I will not be the last,” said a press communiqué quoting the Ambassador.