PM Narendra Modi with CMs of Punjab and Meghalaya, Bhagwant Mann and Conrad Sangma, respectively.PTI

In his closing remarks, the Prime Minister said each State should focus on promoting trade, tourism and technology via every Indian Mission around the world. The States must focus on reducing imports, increasing exports and identifying opportunities thereof. Even though the Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection had improved, there was much more potential. “Increasing GST collection requires collective action by the Centre and States. It is crucial for strengthening our economic position and becoming a $5 trillion economy,” he said.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said, “For the first time in the history of G20, India will host the G20 meetings over the year, not only in Delhi, but in every State and Union Territory”. While highlighting the initiatives to boost learning outcomes, capacity-building of teachers, and skilling, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked and requested further support of the States in the successful implementation of the National Education Policy.

Edible oil import

At a press conference, NITI Aayog Member Ramesh Chand later said the Prime Minister also emphasised the need for self sufficiency in the area of edible oil. India was currently importing edible oil worth about Rs. 1 lakh crore, thus meeting nearly half the total demand from imports.

During the meeting, a key demand from the States was to make the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for pulses and oil seeds more effective. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot sought better irrigation facilities in 13 districts for rapid growth in mustard cultivation.

In response to a media query, the NITI Aayog Member said over the past five-six years, the production of pulses had gone up substantially, except for the deficit in masoor and arhar dal, leading to import dependency of just about 7%. He said the northeastern States were expanding the oil palm cultivation areas.

At the meeting, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel reiterated the demand for a five-year extension of GST compensation. He also asked for a revision of the rates of royalty for coal and other major minerals; and suggested that the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) be implemented in the rural areas located close to cities and cities with a population of less than 20,000.

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