Buhchangphai, Jan 30: Chief Minister of Mizoram Lalduhoma on Thursday inaugurated an Arecanut (Kuhva) Processing Unit established by SSB Agro at Buhchangphai, marking a significant boost for value addition and farmer income in the state.
 |
| Image Courtesy: DIPR Mizoram |
The inauguration was attended by P. C. Vanlalruata, Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, as Guest of Honour, along with Deputy Speaker Lalfamkima and MLA & Adviser to the Chief Minister Lalmuanpuia Punte.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Mizoram has nearly 30,000 hectares under arecanut cultivation, with an estimated production of around two lakh quintals during 2024–25. He described arecanut as a stable and profitable livelihood and said the government is supporting its expansion through initiatives such as the Handholding Scheme and the Chief Minister’s Special Package.
Referring to the large-scale loss of arecanut trees since 2021, Lalduhoma said scientific assessments by the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute identified water stress and nutrient deficiency as the main causes. He stressed the importance of improved plantation management and water conservation practices to prevent future losses.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s firm action against illegal arecanut trade, stating that strict enforcement has significantly improved market conditions for farmers. Emphasising the need for local processing, he said government-run processing units are currently under construction at Chemphai and Zamuang, which are expected to become operational next year.
Commending SSB Agro’s initiative, Lalduhoma noted that the company has established a high-capacity unit capable of processing 3,000 nuts per hour within a short period. He welcomed the procurement arrangement with MAMCOS and expressed confidence that the project would benefit a large number of farmers.
ALSO READ: Mizoram to Host Biggest International Pro Boxing Event ‘King of the Hills’ on May 1
Agriculture Minister P.C. Vanlalruata said processing facilities play a crucial role in value addition and market stability for growers. He added that similar processing initiatives are being planned for other crops, including ginger, turmeric and chilli.
A technical report on the project was presented by Sangbiak Lal Khuptong, and the programme concluded with a dedication prayer led by Solomon Lalmuanpuia Khiangte.
