Aizawl, Dec 17: Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma on Monday launched the Chief Minister’s Rubber Mission, a landmark initiative designed to enhance the state’s agricultural growth and provide sustainable income opportunities for local farmers. The launch event took place at the Dawrpui Multipurpose Hall in Aizawl, with Pu Lalthansanga, Minister for Land Resources, Soil & Water Conservation, attending as the Guest of Honour.

In his address, Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma acknowledged the challenges faced by Mizoram’s farmers in previous agricultural schemes and stressed the potential of rubber as a high-demand crop. He emphasized that rubber cultivation can offer long-term economic stability, contribute to environmental sustainability, and position Mizoram as a major player in rubber production. The Chief Minister reassured the public that the mission is carefully planned to make the best use of Mizoram’s available land and ensure substantial benefits for farmers.

Ahead of the mission’s launch, key officials from Mizoram visited rubber-producing states such as Tripura and Kerala, consulting with experts from the Rubber Board of India to gather insights and best practices for the program’s successful implementation.

Minister Pu Lalthansanga praised the Chief Minister’s visionary approach, revealing that the Rubber Mission was developed after thorough consultations with Dr. Sawar Dhanania, Chairman of the Rubber Board of India. He confirmed that the relevant departments are well-prepared to implement the mission efficiently and provide lasting benefits to farmers across Mizoram.

The Rubber Mission is set to begin in the 2025-26 financial year, with a goal of cultivating 1,000 hectares of rubber annually, benefiting 1,000 farmers each year. The first phase, spanning four years, aims to develop 4,000 hectares of rubber plantations across the state.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of a ₹27.98 crore sanction letter by Smt. Pankaja Borah, General Manager of NABARD’s Mizoram Regional Office, to fund the initial phase of the mission, which will cover seven districts in Mizoram.

The launch of the Chief Minister’s Rubber Mission marks a significant milestone in Mizoram’s agricultural development, focusing on sustainable farming practices and long-term economic growth for the state’s farmers.