Mizoram Witnesses Substantial Rise in Central Financial Transfers
The Union Budget has ushered in a significant increase in central transfers to Mizoram, with enhanced tax devolution, grants-in-aid, and sustained capital support highlighting the Centre's focused approach on infrastructure-led development in this northeastern state. According to the latest budget estimates, Mizoram has been allocated Rs 8,608 crore under tax devolution for the fiscal year 2026-27, while grants-in-aid for 2025–26 stand at an impressive Rs 3,219 crore.
Historical Financial Inflows and Capital Expenditure Support
Between 2014 and 2026, the state has cumulatively received a substantial Rs 46,513 crore through tax devolution and Rs 41,396 crore as grants-in-aid from the central government. Beyond these finance commission transfers, Mizoram has benefited remarkably from the Special Assistance to States for Capital Expenditure (SASCE) scheme. This initiative provides 50-year interest-free loans for capital investment, with the Centre bearing the interest burden.
Under the SASCE scheme, Mizoram received:
- Rs 200 crore in 2020-21
- Rs 300 crore in 2021-22
- Rs 298 crore in 2022-23
- Rs 748 crore in 2023-24
- Rs 1,361 crore in 2024-25
- Rs 341 crore in 2025-26 (up to January 2026)
This brings the total releases since 2020-21 to Rs 3,243 crore, demonstrating a consistent flow of capital support.
Major Infrastructure Initiatives Transforming Connectivity
These financial allocations coincide with a series of large-scale infrastructure projects in Mizoram. On September 13, 2025, development projects worth over Rs 9,000 crore across railways, roads, energy, sports, and connectivity sectors were inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid. These initiatives aim to integrate Mizoram more closely with national development networks.
In the road sector, more than 1,499 km of National Highways had been constructed in Mizoram as of June 30, 2025. Key projects include:
- The Aizawl Bypass Road
- The Thenzawl-Sialsuk Road
- The Khankawn-Rongura Road
These roads are significantly improving urban decongestion, airport access, and intra-state connectivity. Additionally, the Chhimtuipui River Bridge on the Lawngtlai–Siaha Road is expected to provide all-weather connectivity in southern Mizoram.
Under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, work is underway on 593 km of National Highway corridors with an approved cost of Rs 11,465 crore, further enhancing the state's road infrastructure.
Rail and Aviation Connectivity Enhancements
Rail connectivity has received a major boost with the dedication of the Bairabi-Sairang rail line, marking Aizawl's first direct link to the Indian Railways network. The 51.38-km project, once fully completed, is expected to transform connectivity to the state capital. Sairang Railway Station is currently being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
Across the northeast region, the annual average railway budget outlay has risen dramatically from Rs 2,122 crore during 2009-14 to Rs 10,440 crore in 2025-26. Since 2014, 1,824 km of new railway tracks have been laid, along with 478 flyovers and under-bridges. Safety systems such as Kavach and passenger amenities including Wi-Fi, escalators, and lifts have been introduced to improve travel experience.
In the aviation sector, Lengpui Airport has been brought under the Krishi Udan Scheme to facilitate the transport of agricultural produce, supporting local farmers and the economy.
Tourism, Energy, and Social Infrastructure Development
Tourism infrastructure has received over Rs 158 crore under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme for circuits in Thenzawl and the South Zone, along with Rs 44.89 crore under the PRASAD scheme. Mizoram has also been included in national tourism initiatives such as Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi, piloted in Aizawl. In July 2024, Apna Radio 90.0 FM, the country's 500th community radio station, was inaugurated at IIMC Aizawl, enhancing local communication.
Energy and social infrastructure projects include a 30 TMTPA LPG bottling plant at Mualkhang, Aizawl, aimed at improving access to clean cooking fuel and generating employment opportunities. Educational infrastructure has been strengthened with new residential and model schools, including an Eklavya Model Residential School at Tlangnuam. A Khelo India multipurpose indoor hall at Tuikual is set to promote youth and sports development across the state.
Flagship Programmes and Social Sector Achievements
Mizoram has benefited from several flagship programmes including:
- UNNATI 2024
- The North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme
- PM-DevINE
- The Smart Cities Mission in Aizawl
- Rural development initiatives under the Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission
The Indian Institute of Mass Communication's North Eastern Regional Campus at Aizawl is now operational, contributing to media education in the region.
In the social sector, as of January 2026, Mizoram has recorded impressive numbers:
- Over 4.31 lakh Jan Dhan accounts
- 5.94 lakh Ayushman Bharat cards
- Tap water connections to more than 1.33 lakh rural households under the Jal Jeevan Mission
- Coverage of over seven lakh beneficiaries under the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana
These figures reflect the expanding reach and impact of central welfare schemes in Mizoram, showcasing how financial allocations are translating into tangible benefits for the state's residents.
