The Mizoram government is making strides to uplift the agricultural sector by prioritizing the establishment of markets for local farmers’ produce through its newly launched ‘Handholding’ policy. Agriculture Minister P.C. Vanlalruata announced this initiative at a party function at the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) office, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable development. Under this initiative, the state plans to set up four wholesale markets in Aizawl dedicated to cash crops, vegetables, and other agricultural products. “Our top priority under the ‘Handholding’ policy is to create markets for crops produced by local farmers,” stated Vanlalruata. He criticized previous administrations for neglecting this vital area and emphasized the current ZPM government’s determination to drive progress.
The policy aims to empower farmers by providing crucial information about minimum selling prices, facilitating better planning and cultivation strategies. To support this effort, the state agricultural department has received Rs 10 crore for the development of two wholesale markets, with sites in Sihphir and Melthum, near Aizawl, currently being finalized. In addition to market development, the government plans to construct agricultural link roads throughout Mizoram. “We hope many families will become economically self-reliant, and Mizoram will reach a new level of development within the next decade,” Vanlalruata added.
Launched by Chief Minister Lalduhoma on September 19, the ‘Handholding’ policy offers financial assistance and targeted support to entrepreneurs and farmers, aiming to promote economic growth and self-sufficiency. The government has allocated Rs 200 crore for the policy’s implementation in the 2024-25 fiscal year, alongside a Rs 110 crore corpus fund for agricultural assurance in the current financial year.
