13. The Economy of Bam- A New Direction:

 Agriculture is no longer the main livelihood of Bam. It is no longer considered a profitable economic activity. The main reason for this is the shortage of agricultural workers and the expansion of alternative income opportunities. Most families receive free or subsidized rice through various government schemes. Therefore, people have given up agricultural activities. Most of the land lies fallow. The new generation is not interested in accepting the hardships of farming and most are attracted to new business and professional fields and are ignorant about farming. This is an ominous sign. If the government ever stops providing free or subsidized rice, people will not be able to start farming again.

In Bam, service-based economic activities such as transportation, healthcare, shopping, teaching and running educational institutions are emerging as alternatives to farming. At the same time, the Bam is moving towards modern professions like carpenters, electricians, plumbers and pipe fitters, painters, furniture makers, computer and desktop publishing, blogging, car washing, tree nurseries, agarwood cultivation, fisheries, poultry farming, diagnostic centres, government and private sector jobs, motor mechanics, tourism industry, and hotels and restaurants.

The geographical location of Bam has provided special advantages for the economy of the region. Bam plays the role of an important connecting point between Cachar and Mizoram. This has created business opportunities with Mizoram and its markets beyond.

 

The Indian government has been working on the ‘Look East’ policy for about 20/25 years and the ‘Act East’ policy of the NDA government in 2014. But Bam  was aware of the business opportunities with the countries bordering Mizoram’s southern border much earlier. The improvement of road connectivity, expansion of network and development of transport sector have opened new doors for the Bam people.

As a result, a new era has dawned in the Bam economy. The old agrarian economy is now a part of history. However, except for the brick making industry, the expansion of manufacturing sector is not very noticeable. Although this industry has been developed to meet the market demand of Mizoram, it has mostly become a cause of problems. Destruction of valuable agricultural land and environmental pollution are the main problems of this industry. Through new professional initiatives and services of the current generation, the Bam people are not only improving their standard of living, but also adding new strength and dynamism to the economy of the region. However, ensuring environmental protection, long-term economic prosperity and promotion of education is now an important challenge for the Bam. .Many voluntary organizations and NGOs of the Bam are working in this field.