Aizawl (Mizoram) [India], December 16 (HBTV): Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday attended the State Credit Seminar 2026–27 organised by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Mizoram Regional Office, at the Assembly Conference Hall in Aizawl.
During the programme, the Chief Minister released the State Focus Paper 2026–27 and addressed the gathering. According to an official statement, he said the state government has been implementing several developmental initiatives in collaboration with NABARD, which continues to play a crucial role as a catalyst in Mizoram’s development. He noted that the state has derived significant benefits from NABARD-supported interventions.
Highlighting ongoing projects, Lalduhoma said the 10 MW Thenzawl Solar Power Plant, established with NABARD funding, is nearing inauguration, while another 5 MW solar power project is proposed to be taken up at Sumsuih in Mizoram. He also said the Chief Minister’s Rubber Mission is being actively pursued, with 4,50,000 rubber saplings planted in the previous year and plans underway to plant more than 11,00,000 saplings.
Referring to the latest NITI Aayog Sustainable Development Index report, the Chief Minister said Mizoram’s improved performance reflects the positive outcomes of the state’s development efforts. In the report, Hnahthial district ranked first, Champhai second and Kolasib ninth in the Northeast region.
He further observed that with around 80 per cent of the state’s population still dependent on agriculture for their livelihood, agricultural development remains central to Mizoram’s overall growth. Urging banks to expand their outreach in hilly and remote areas, he said Mizoram currently has 278 bank branches, of which 180 are located in Aizawl, Lunglei and Kolasib districts, while the remaining eight districts together account for only 95 branches. He appealed for a more equitable distribution of banking services across the state.
Chief Secretary Pu Khilli Ram Meena delivered the keynote address, highlighting the government’s initiatives and achievements across sectors in collaboration with NABARD, as well as the challenges ahead. He also appreciated NABARD for efficiently organising the seminar. Ramdinliani, Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, addressed the seminar, followed by an interactive discussion session among participants.
Pankaja Borah, General Manager, NABARD, delivered the welcome address, while Lalrokunga Chhakchhuak, Deputy General Manager, NABARD, presented the State Focus Paper 2026–27. The paper has projected a total credit outlay of INR 4,349.71 crore for priority sectors, including INR 2,260.99 crore for agriculture and allied activities, INR 1,500.35 crore for MSMEs, INR 6.55 crore for export credit, INR 18.51 crore for education, INR 432.35 crore for the housing sector, INR 36.30 crore for social infrastructure, INR 24.67 crore for renewable energy and INR 70 crore for other sectors. (ANI)