Aizawl, May 11: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of the Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), at his official residence in Aizawl on Sunday evening to discuss a range of development initiatives, infrastructure projects, and ongoing programmes aimed at accelerating growth in the state.
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| Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma meets DoNER Secretary Sanjay Jaju at the Chief Minister’s official residence in Aizawl to discuss development projects, infrastructure and the NEC-funded ginger initiative. (Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
The meeting focused on key sectors including agriculture, road connectivity, tourism, and the implementation of projects funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC) and the Ministry of DoNER. Senior officials from the state government were also involved in discussions concerning development priorities and pending proposals.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Ministry of DoNER and the North Eastern Council for approving the project titled “Sustainable Cultivation of Mizo Ginger USP.” The project, funded by the NEC, is expected to provide substantial support to ginger farmers and strengthen one of Mizoram’s most important agricultural sectors.
Lalduhoma highlighted that Mizoram is widely known for producing high-quality and organically grown ginger. He noted that NITI Aayog has recognised Mizoram as the “Ginger Capital of India,” reflecting the state’s significant contribution to ginger cultivation and production. The Chief Minister said the newly approved project would help improve cultivation practices, enhance productivity, and increase income opportunities for farmers across the state.
The discussion also touched on the implementation of the 10 per cent Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) mechanism. Lalduhoma raised concerns regarding the need for a more systematic, transparent, and efficient process in the implementation of the scheme. He stressed that greater clarity and coordination would help ensure smoother execution of development projects. In response, DoNER Secretary Sanjay Jaju assured the Chief Minister that the concerns raised would be examined and appropriate steps considered.
Infrastructure development was another major focus of the meeting. Under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS-Roads), the Chief Minister proposed extending the Khankawn–Rongura Hmun road by approximately 1.70 kilometres to connect it with the Thenzawl–Buarpui Intermediate Lane. Lalduhoma explained that the proposed extension would significantly improve connectivity, facilitate transportation, and contribute to economic development in the area.
The DoNER Secretary reportedly responded positively to the proposal and assured that necessary action would be taken to examine its feasibility and implementation.
Tourism development also featured prominently in the discussions. Both leaders reviewed plans to attract private investment for the development and modernization of the Thenzawl Golf Resort, one of Mizoram’s prominent tourism assets. The state government has been exploring ways to improve tourism infrastructure and enhance visitor experiences through public-private partnerships.
Officials noted that the proposed upgrades could strengthen Thenzawl’s position as a major tourism destination while generating economic opportunities for local communities.
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In addition to these matters, the Chief Minister and the DoNER Secretary reviewed the status of several ongoing and pending projects funded by DoNER and the NEC. Discussions focused on project implementation, funding utilisation, and measures to ensure timely completion of development works across the state.
The meeting reflected the continued cooperation between the Government of Mizoram and the Ministry of DoNER in advancing developmental goals in the state. Officials said the discussions were constructive and covered several priority areas that are expected to contribute to economic growth, improved infrastructure, agricultural development, and tourism promotion.
With continued support from the Centre and ongoing collaboration between state and central agencies, Mizoram aims to accelerate its development agenda while creating new opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and local communities across the state.
