A severe rodent infestation has destroyed nearly 42 per cent of Mizoram’s agricultural output this year, affecting more than 5,000 farmers across all 11 districts, according to the state Agriculture Department. The outbreak was triggered by the flowering of Bambusa tulda, locally known as Thingtam, a phenomenon that occurs once every 48 years and causes rodent populations to surge rapidly.
Deputy Director (Plant Protection) Lalrindiki said over 1,700 hectares of farmland spanning 180 villages have suffered significant damage. While poisoning drives helped slow the spread, the rodent population began declining only after the harvest period. Mamit district recorded the most extensive losses with nearly 60 per cent crop destruction, impacting more than 2,000 families. Lunglei district saw similar devastation, affecting over 1,000 farmers. Hnahthial district reported the highest proportional loss, with 82.9 per cent crop damage.
With nearly 70 per cent of Mizoram’s population reliant on agriculture, the outbreak has fuelled concerns about food security. Rodents ravaged paddy fields most severely but also damaged maize, ginger, sugarcane, pumpkin, eggplant and sesame crops. Officials say the crisis underscores the need to transition from traditional jhum cultivation to more resilient farming systems.
