Chief Minister attended closing function of Supporting price under Handholding Scheme for the current year

Hnahthial Post | July 1, 2025, Aizawl: The Closing Function of the Support Price under the Handholding Scheme for the current year was held today at the I&WRD Conference Hall, MINECO. Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma attended the event as Chief Guest.

In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted several key points:

1. He stated that although the initiative began modestly, significant progress has been achieved. The government understands the hardships faced by farmers, and despite initial challenges, five crops—ginger, turmeric, Mizo chilli, broomsticks, and Mizo rice—were successfully procured this season.

2. The Chief Minister acknowledged that while the ginger market may remain uncertain next year, the Support Price policy is specifically designed to protect farmers during times of market downturn. He stressed that in years when prices are high, such support may not be necessary. Therefore, the policy's success this year reflects timely and effective intervention.

3. He remarked that one of the most meaningful outcomes of the scheme has been the restoration of dignity and pride among farmers. While some attempted to politicize the initiative, honest and hardworking farmers were the true beneficiaries. He urged the public to understand that the policy is intended for the collective good—not for a select few.

4. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of adopting more environmentally responsible farming practices. He reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting permanent and sustainable farming models.

5. He informed the gathering that steps are underway to reintroduce crop insurance, beginning with selected crops. The government will provide subsidies to ensure maximum farmer participation.

6. Reaffirming the state’s focus on organic farming, the Chief Minister noted that the government is in the process of establishing Food Testing Laboratories to facilitate organic certification and improve market access for organic produce.

7. He cited successful branding efforts by other states, such as Lakadong turmeric in Meghalaya and apples in Himachal Pradesh, and expressed Mizoram’s intent to promote its ginger as a flagship crop under a similar branding initiative.

8. On industrial development, he noted that the shortage of raw materials continues to pose challenges. Strengthening the primary sector, therefore, remains essential as a foundation for the growth of both the industrial and service sectors.

9. With Mizoram becoming increasingly integrated into the broader market economy, he underscored the importance of accurate data collection and responsible participation from all sections of society.

10. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Mizoram State Policy Coordination Committee, MAMB, DAMB, collection centres, and local communities for their cooperation. He also expressed pride in the success of the agricultural procurement drive, particularly in the face of nationwide market disruptions.

Agriculture Minister Pu PC Vanlalruata also addressed the gathering. He shared that at the start of procurement, he had concerns due to market conditions. However, with the strong and consistent support of the Chief Minister—whose commitment to farmers’ welfare is unwavering—the first year of implementation proved successful.

Dr. K.C. Lalmalsawmzauva, Adviser to the Chief Minister and Co-Chairman of MAMB, presented a report on this season’s procurement:

Mizo rice: 1,473 quintals procured; ₹44 lakh disbursed

Ginger (Sawhthing): As of 27th June, 233,604 quintals procured; ₹96.4 crore disbursed under support price

Turmeric (Aieng): 400 quintals procured

Broomstick:

Empanelled buyers: 10,552 quintals procured (no support price needed)

Non-empanelled buyers: 27,277 quintals procured (no support price needed)

Through ZOHANCO: 2,498 quintals procured; ₹2 crore disbursed

The programme began with a welcome address by Pi Ramdinliani, Special Secretary, Agriculture Department.

Notable attendees included Speaker Pu Lalbiakzama; Ministers Pu C. Lalsawivunga and Pi Lalrinpuii; Deputy Speaker Pu Lalfamkima; several MLAs; senior government officials; and MAMB Managing Director Pu Lalhmingmuana, who delivered the vote of thanks.