520/2024-2025

Dated Aizawl, the 28th March 2025: Today, the Land Resources, Soil & Water Conservation Department organized a Training cum Seminar on Scientific Methods of Cultivation of Arecanut and Pest Management at the ATI Auditorium, MINECO. The inaugural session was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, Pu Lalduhoma, with Pu Lalthansanga, Minister of Land Resources, Soil & Water Conservation, as the Guest of Honour.

In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted that due to the illegal import of arecanut from Myanmar, local cultivators in Mizoram have faced challenges in selling their produce at competitive prices. He emphasized that the government is working diligently to address these difficulties and take corrective measures.

He announced that Rs. 7.43 crore has been sanctioned by the North Eastern Council (NEC) for establishing arecanut processing units at Chemphai and Zamuang. He stated that these units will ensure proper processing of arecanut, create value-added products, and facilitate marketing. He also stressed the importance of proper utilization of available resources to ensure increased productivity and economic benefits for farmers.

In recognition of their contributions, the Chief Minister presented awards to three outstanding individuals:

Pu Lalbiakseia of Bilkhawthlir – Pioneer of arecanut cultivation in Mizoram since 1965.

Pu Saikhalha of Zamuang – Holder of the highest number of arecanut plants in Mizoram, with over 30,000 plants.

Pu Zamzela of Tuikhuahtlang – An exemplary farmer with vast knowledge of arecanut cultivation and a mentor to other cultivators.

In his remarks, Pu Lalthansanga, Minister of LRS & WC, stated that the government remains committed to assisting farmers and providing them with adequate financial support. He mentioned that the Handholding Scheme is not merely an aid but an assistance for a good work. He reiterated that all arecanut farmers in Mizoram are partners in the efforts of the Soil Department and that their collective contributions will enhance the overall progress of the state.

Er. Vanlalmuanpuia Chhangte, Director, LRS & WC, stated that the training was organized in response to the outbreak of arecanut diseases since 2021. He added that the department had distributed medicines worth Rs. 33 lakh last year to treat arecanut diseases in Mamit district. However, he acknowledged that some farmers had not used these medicines properly, prompting the need for this training.

Pu Lalsangliana, Secretary, LRS & WC, outlined the department’s plans to establish two arecanut processing units and produce disposable plates from arecanut sheaths. He also mentioned the initiatives under Chief Minister’s Rubber Missions and efforts to support farmers cultivating various other crops.

Pu C. Laldina, President of the Mizoram Arecanut Growers Association, expressed gratitude to the government for addressing the challenges faced by local cultivators due to the illegal import of arecanut. He affirmed that the association would continue to work closely with the government to ensure the success of arecanut cultivation in Mizoram.

Following the inaugural session, training sessions were conducted by Dr. Rebecca Lalmuanpuii, Subject Matter Specialist (Agroforestry), and Dr. Vanlalhruaia, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Protection), KVK Mamit District, Lengpui.