Will Mizoram Become the 'Ginger Capital of India'?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- NITI Aayog proposes Mizoram as the 'Ginger Capital of India'.
- Focus on maintaining organic quality while adopting modern processing.
- Stakeholder consultation aims to strengthen market linkages.
- Minimum Support Price of Rs 50 per kilogram for farmers.
- Upcoming 'Ginger Buyer–Seller Meet' in Aizawl.
New Delhi/Aizawl, Nov 25 (NationPress) NITI Aayog has proposed that Mizoram be acknowledged as the 'Ginger Capital of India', stressing the importance of maintaining the organic integrity of its ginger while incorporating modern processing technologies and broadening its presence in both domestic and international markets, officials reported on Tuesday.
A senior official from the Mizoram government mentioned that the recommendations from NITI Aayog would lead to focused action plans for execution.
He noted that the Mizoram government, in partnership with NITI Aayog, hosted a high-level stakeholder consultation named 'Stakeholders Consultation for Mizoram Ginger Produce' at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Monday.
This consultation saw participation from over 60 individuals from various government sectors and private enterprises, primarily targeting the enhancement of market connections, improvement of processing facilities, addressing value-chain issues, and creating better prospects for ginger farmers and entrepreneurs in Mizoram.
Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs), industry stakeholders, and entrepreneurs engaged in discussions on tactics to broaden markets for Mizoram ginger throughout India and overseas, strengthen trade connections, and establish an effective ecosystem for processing and export.
During the gathering, Chief Minister Lalduhoma remarked that Mizoram has emerged as a key ginger-producing state in India over the last two years, with its products being celebrated for exceptional quality. He reaffirmed the state government's dedication to backing both farmers and investors. To ensure consistent returns, the Mizoram government currently offers a Minimum Support Price of Rs 50 per kilogram.
The Chief Minister also underscored enhancements in the state's industrial and investment policies to promote a conducive investment environment, highlighting that opportunities extend beyond ginger to additional agricultural and value-added products. He invited stakeholders to attend the 'Ginger Buyer–Seller Meet' scheduled in Aizawl on December 5-6.
He expressed gratitude to NITI Aayog Member Dr. V.K. Paul and the government think tank's team for their support in organizing the consultation.
The day-long event kicked off with an inaugural session led by Paul, followed by a presentation from Special Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ramdinliani, showcasing the state’s initiatives and the growing potential of Mizoram ginger in national and global markets.
Other notable figures who spoke at the consultation included NITI Aayog's Additional Secretary Rohit Kumar, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Food Processing Industries Secretary A.P. Das Joshi, Ayush Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi, state LESDE Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, and Mizoram Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena.