Aizawl: State Chief Minister Lalduhoma raised a range of issues concerning Mizoram and the northeast region during an interaction with NITI Aayog, Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries of north-eastern states at the NITI Aayog office in New Delhi on Friday.
Appointment of NITI Aayog Member Welcomed
Lalduhoma welcomed the appointment of Dr. Joram Aniya, a native of the northeast region, as a member of NITI Aayog and appreciated the initiative of holding a dedicated meeting with leaders of the region.
Key Issues Raised
- Separate AIS Cadre for Mizoram: The Chief Minister argued that a separate All India Services cadre would better serve the state's administrative and developmental requirements. He noted that the matter had also been discussed with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
- Peace City Project at Thenzawl: Lalduhoma highlighted the proposed project and sought continued support for its development. Referring to his personal involvement in peace efforts during the insurgency period, he emphasized sustained commitment.
- Northeast Economic Corridor: As Convener of the High-Level Task Force, he stressed the need for early completion of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, vital for regional connectivity and economic growth. He also urged timely completion of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which has faced repeated delays.
- Aspirational Districts Programme: The Chief Minister called for a review of the programme, stating that existing criteria do not adequately reflect the realities of hilly and border states and should be revised.
- Centrally Sponsored Schemes: He pointed out that several scheme guidelines are not fully suited to northeastern states and suggested adaptation to local geographical and socio-economic realities.
- Mizoram Ginger Mission: Seeking support from NITI Aayog, he called for faster implementation of infrastructure and value-addition facilities under the mission.
- Tourism and Sports: Lalduhoma highlighted state plans in tourism and briefed participants on the progress of the Empowering Mizoram Sports initiative and future proposals.
- Financial Support: He noted that the Centre's 10 per cent Gross Budgetary Support for the Northeast has been beneficial but suggested greater flexibility for states to utilize funds for priority schemes.
Meeting Proceedings
During the meeting, NITI Aayog CEO Nidhi Chhibber welcomed the participants, while Vice-Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri outlined the objectives and key areas of focus.
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