Buhchangphai, Jan 30: Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, today inaugurated the Arecanut (Kuhva) Processing Unit established by SSB Agro at Buhchangphai. P.C. Vanlalruata, Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, attended as Guest of Honour, along with Lalfamkima, Deputy Speaker, and Lalmuanpuia Punte, MLA & Adviser to the Chief Minister.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Mizoram has around 30,000 hectares under arecanut cultivation, with an estimated production of about 2 lakh quintals in 2024–25. Recognising arecanut as a stable and profitable livelihood, the Government continues to support expansion through schemes such as the Handholding Scheme and CM Special Package.

He noted that large-scale arecanut tree loss since 2021 was primarily due to water stress and nutrient deficiency, as assessed by scientists from the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), and stressed the need for better plantation management and water conservation.

The Chief Minister highlighted the Government’s strong action against illegal arecanut trade, which has significantly improved market outcomes for farmers. He also underlined the importance of local processing to ensure better prices. Government-run processing units are under construction at Chemphai and Zamuang, expected to be operational next year.

Praising SSB Agro’s initiative, he said the company set up a high-capacity unit capable of processing 3,000 nuts per hour within a short time. He welcomed the procurement arrangement with MAMCOS and expressed confidence that the project would benefit a large number of farmers.

Agriculture Minister P.C. Vanlalruata emphasised that processing adds value and ensures stable markets for growers, and informed that similar initiatives are planned for crops like ginger, turmeric, and chilli.

A technical report was presented by Sangbiak Lal Khuptong, and the programme concluded with a dedication prayer by Rev. Solomon Lalmuanpuia Khiangte.