New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS): Mizoram can become the "bamboo state" of India due to the high level of production of this giant woody grass which can be used for furniture as well as paper, Development of the Northeastern Region (DoNER) Minister Jitendra Singh said on Tuesday.

Stating that each of the eight northeastern states can develop an identity of its own, Singh told Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, who called on him here, that Mizoram has a very bright opportunity to earn the distinction of becoming the "bamboo state" of India, according to an official statement.

He said the high level of production of bamboo in Mizoram can make the state a major source of not only furniture but also paper for the rest of the country.

"This could not only help generate revenue for the state but also create job opportunities for youth outside the state," Singh said, adding that a move to activate a bamboo development board has already been initiated.

Regarding connectivity between Mizoram and the rest of the country, he said he was persuading the aviation ministry and different private airlines to start, if not daily, at least biweekly or triweekly direct flights between Delhi and state capital Aizawl.

Lal Thanhawla brought to Singh's notice two of his priority projects involving construction of community halls in and around Aizawl.

Singh assured the chief minister that these projects would be taken up on a priority basis, the statement said.