Aizawl, May 30, 2026: Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Manohar Lal on Friday emphasized the need to expand Mizoram's power generation capacity, with a particular focus on renewable and hydropower development, during a State Review Meeting held at the MINECO Conference Hall in Aizawl.
 |
| Union Minister Manohar Lal reviews Mizoram's power and urban development sectors during a State Review Meeting in Aizawl. (Photo: DIPR Mizoram) |
The meeting, attended by Mizoram Power & Electricity Minister F. Rodingliana, Urban Development & Poverty Alleviation Minister K. Sapdanga, and senior officials, focused on strengthening the state's power infrastructure and ensuring long-term energy security.
During the discussions, the Union Minister described electricity as a key driver of economic growth and stressed the importance of effective planning for both power generation and power conservation. He encouraged Mizoram to place greater emphasis on renewable energy, particularly solar power, while also exploring the state's vast hydropower potential.
A major highlight of the meeting was the discussion on proposed hydroelectric power projects on the Tlawng, Tuivai, and Chhimtuipui rivers. Manohar Lal informed officials that further discussions on these proposals would be taken up in New Delhi with the Mizoram government to assess their feasibility and explore ways to move the projects forward.
The proposed hydropower projects are expected to significantly boost electricity generation in the state, reduce dependence on external power sources, and contribute to Mizoram's long-term energy requirements. The projects could also support economic growth by improving power availability for households, businesses, and industries.
Apart from power generation, the meeting reviewed the state's ongoing efforts to modernise its electricity distribution network. Officials reported that under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), Smart Meter installation is progressing steadily, with 52,886 meters already installed out of the targeted 292,081 units, representing 18.01 per cent of the overall target.
ALSO READ: UFC Flyweight Champion Joshua Van Meets Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma
The Union Minister also urged the Power & Electricity Department to improve electricity revenue collection, ensure full recovery of dues, and accelerate Smart Meter installation in government offices and major commercial establishments. He further suggested introducing a security deposit system under the prepaid metering programme and noted that early adopters would receive a 2 per cent rebate.
The meeting additionally reviewed urban development initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM). Manohar Lal noted that Mizoram has advanced from Open Defecation Free (ODF) status to ODF+ status and discussed measures to strengthen solid waste management, sanitation, waste segregation, and urban cleanliness. He assured continued support from the Central Government for these initiatives.
The review reflects the Centre's focus on strengthening Mizoram's energy infrastructure while exploring new avenues for sustainable power generation through hydropower and renewable energy projects.
