Aizawl: In a significant boost to its agricultural economy, the Mizoram government has given the green light for a major expansion of its flagship Chief Minister’s Rubber Mission (2nd Phase), with an additional 173 hectares of land now earmarked for rubber cultivation. The move, aimed at uplifting the lives of rural farmers, was approved by Chief Minister Lalduhoma during a meeting with leaders of the Mizoram Rubber Society (MIRSO) on Wednesday. The latest approval, a response to a report from MIRSO President Hrangzuala, brings the total additional target under the second phase from 400 hectares to a substantial 573 hectares. This ambitious expansion raises the overall area for rubber plantation in the state to 2,400 hectares. A portion of this, over 1,200 hectares, will be funded by NABARD, with the rest falling under the state’s ‘Bana Kaih’ (Hand Holding Scheme). With the new expansion, the Bana Kaih scheme alone will now cover 1,373 hectares. The decision has been met with widespread enthusiasm from farmers and cultivators, who have expressed their gratitude and a keen interest in expanding their participation. Chief Minister Lalduhoma reciprocated, thanking the farming community for their cooperation and reaffirming his government’s unwavering commitment to the mission. To further strengthen the sector and provide crucial value addition, the Chief Minister also announced the establishment of 100 rubber processing units with subsidy support. Officials believe this initiative will not only create local employment opportunities but also ensure the sustainable growth of Mizoram’s rubber industry, which is a vital source of income for many, especially in districts like Mamit.
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