Shillong/Aizawl, June 19: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Friday highlighted the transformative role of Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) in the state's development while addressing a seminar on “Leveraging Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) in the North Eastern States” organised by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance, in Shillong.
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| Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma addresses the seminar on “Leveraging Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) in the North-Eastern States” in Shillong. (Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
The inaugural session of the seminar was chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and attended by Chief Ministers from all Northeastern states, senior officials of the Government of India, and representatives of international development institutions.
The seminar aimed to strengthen the capacity of Northeastern states in implementing EAPs, facilitate the exchange of experiences and best practices, and explore ways to design more effective development projects for the region.
Addressing the gathering, Lalduhoma said externally aided projects have played a crucial role in accelerating development in Mizoram by providing not only financial resources but also technical expertise and global best practices. He noted that specialists from international partner institutions study local challenges and contribute valuable knowledge that enhances project implementation and outcomes.
The Chief Minister stated that Mizoram is among the leading Northeastern states in accessing EAP funding. He highlighted several major projects supported by international agencies, including the World Bank-funded Aizawl–Thenzawl–Lunglei Road project and road infrastructure initiatives financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), such as the Mizoram State Roads II Project, which focuses on improving connectivity in border areas.
Lalduhoma also underscored the impact of EAPs in urban infrastructure, water supply, and public resource management. In the agriculture sector, he cited the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)-supported FOCUS project, which has benefited around 55,000 households, increased incomes by approximately 43 percent, and contributed to environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
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In the healthcare sector, the Chief Minister noted that the World Bank-assisted Health System Strengthening Project enabled 62 government health facilities and hospitals in Mizoram to obtain National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification. He pointed out that prior to the project, the state had no NQAS-certified health facilities.
He further highlighted the ongoing construction of the Super Speciality Cancer Centre with assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the implementation of the Universal Health Care Scheme supported by ADB funding, and the revival of the 24 MW Tuirini Hydroelectric Project with support from the New Development Bank (NDB).
Stressing the importance of EAPs in creating quality infrastructure and promoting sustainable development, Lalduhoma appealed for an increase in the EAP funding ceiling for Northeastern states. He said greater access to externally aided projects would enable the region to undertake more development initiatives and address critical infrastructure needs.
The inaugural session also featured a welcome address by DEA Secretary Anuradha Thakur, a keynote address by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and remarks by Johannes Zutt, Vice President of the South Asia Region of the World Bank Group, along with Chief Ministers from across the Northeast.
