Northeast Desk, 29th January: In a significant move, Chief Minister Lalduhoma announced a budget allocation of Rs 31.34 crore for constructing a link road connecting Dragon Fruit plantations in Lamlian Dung Zau, Thenzawl. Addressing the general assembly of the Thenzawl Dragon Fruits Growers & Marketing Society, Lalduhoma underscored the substantial investments made by the government and farmers in dragon fruit cultivation. He acknowledged the need for well-connected link roads to support the transportation of dragon fruit produce. Although the allocated funds may not cover a metal road, the focus is on creating well-graded and pliable roads.
CM Lalduhoma commended the memorandum of understanding between Local Soda Pvt. Ltd. and farmers, highlighting the company’s commitment to purchasing dragon fruit products. Since 2021, around 50 local farmers have established dragon fruit plantations covering 82.79 hectares in Lamlian Dung Zau. The government has supported this initiative by setting up 129 units with drip irrigation systems under various schemes, aiming to encourage sustainable farming practices. Plans include establishing 150 additional units, each accommodating up to 30,000 plants, to further boost dragon fruit cultivation in Mizoram.
Each unit has the potential to yield approximately 30 kg of dragon fruit, translating to significant potential revenue at the current market rate of Rs. 300 per kg. In a noteworthy collaboration, Local Soda Pvt. Ltd. has agreed to facilitate the sale of dragon fruit at the farm gate, offering a favorable rate of Rs. 150 per kg to the farmers. This partnership aims to ensure fair compensation for farmers while fostering the continued growth of dragon fruit cultivation in the region.