Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma inaugurated the Arecanut (Kuhva) Processing Unit established by SSB Agro in Buhchangphai, with significant attendance from officials including P.C. Vanlalruata, Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and other local leaders. The Chief Minister highlighted that Mizoram has approximately 30,000 hectares dedicated to arecanut cultivation, forecasting a production of 2 lakh quintals for the year 2024-25. He recognized arecanut as a sustainable livelihood and announced government support for its expansion through initiatives such as the Handholding Scheme and the CM Special Package.
Addressing concerns, he discussed the recent large-scale loss of arecanut trees, attributed to water stress and nutrient deficiencies, as identified by the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI). The Chief Minister underscored the necessity for improved plantation management practices and water conservation efforts. He also noted the government’s robust actions against illegal arecanut trade, which have led to enhanced market conditions for farmers. The establishment of local processing units, currently under construction in Chemphai and Zamuang, which will be operational next year, was also emphasized as a means to help farmers secure better prices for their produce.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma commended SSB Agro for quickly setting up a high-capacity processing unit with the capability of processing 3,000 nuts per hour. He highlighted the procurement arrangements with MAMCOS, expressing confidence that the project will benefit numerous farmers in the region. Agriculture Minister P.C. Vanlalruata echoed these sentiments, highlighting that processing not only adds value to the crops but also stabilizes market conditions for growers. He announced plans for similar processing initiatives for other crops such as ginger, turmeric, and chilli. The program included a technical report by Sangbiak Lal Khuptong and concluded with a prayer led by Rev. Solomon Lalmuanpuia Khiangte.
