Aizawl: The NGO Coordination Committee (NGOCC), an umbrella body of major civil society organizations and student groups in Mizoram, has urged Chief Minister Lalduhoma to reconsider the state government’s decision to hand over Lengpui Airport to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
NGOCC leaders met with the Chief Minister on February 7, voicing concerns over the proposed transfer of the state-owned and operated airport to the military. Lengpui Airport, located in Aizawl, is the only airport in India managed entirely by a state government.
Acknowledging the financial strain in maintaining the airport, Lalduhoma assured the leaders that the government is open to continuing ownership and will seek funds from the Finance Commission to upgrade the airport and improve the runway.
The Chief Minister’s Finance Adviser, TBC Lalvenchhunga, who heads the Working Committee on Lengpui Airport, clarified that the state cabinet has not yet made a final decision regarding the handover. He also stated that a draft Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) is still under review, and no formal agreement has been signed with the IAF.
The issue has sparked widespread debate in Mizoram, with many urging the government to retain control over the strategically significant airport, which plays a vital role in the state’s connectivity and economy.
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