Aizawl, Dec 1 (NationPress) The government of Mizoram has conveyed its heartfelt thanks to NITI Aayog for recognizing the state as the ‘Ginger Capital of India’.

During a meeting led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday, a senior representative from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) expressed appreciation for this prestigious title awarded to the state during a session with the Mizoram Agricultural Marketing Board (MAMB).

The meeting focused on current initiatives and reviewed reports of activities conducted this year, including the significant Stakeholders’ Consultation for Mizoram Ginger Produce held on November 24 in New Delhi.

The official noted that this consultation, organized in collaboration with NITI Aayog and the Mizoram government, is recognized as one of the largest formal gatherings ever held in the national capital concerning a Mizoram-related issue.

The consultation on November 24 saw participation from various Central Ministries and over 60 investors engaged in ginger trading, cultivation, and processing.

During this event, NITI Aayog formally acknowledged Mizoram as the ‘Ginger Capital’ of India, highlighting the state’s renowned production of high-quality ginger and its impressive growth in ginger cultivation over recent years.

At Monday's meeting, MAMB members reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring the production of safe, high-quality ginger and emphasized the importance of expanding organic ginger farming.

As per a comprehensive report on annual procurement, more than 3.38 crore kg of ginger has been procured this year, with the total support price of Rs 137.72 crore fully distributed.

The MAMB is preparing to conduct a ‘Ginger Buyer–Seller Meet’ on December 5–6 at the Aijal Club, expecting buyers from across the country to attend.

This event aims to foster new trade agreements for the upcoming ginger harvest. Additionally, a new ginger processing unit in Sairang is set to be inaugurated on January 12 next year.

To meet the rising demand for sliced-dry ginger, Mizoram-developed technologies—Rapchung Technology and Tapchhak Technology—designed for ginger drying and curing will be procured under the Handholding scheme.

During the upcoming harvest season, all dry broomsticks will be acquired by ZOHANDCO, a government entity in Mizoram, at government-approved rates. While broomsticks can also be sold in the open market, only those procured by ZOHANDCO will qualify for government support prices, as the Corporation has the capacity to purchase the entire output. Private broom traders must secure a certificate of origin from the Land Resources, Soil and Water Conservation Department to obtain a Transit Pass from EF&CC.

The next significant ginger procurement season is scheduled to commence on February 2 and will continue until May 31, 2026. Turmeric will be procured during February–March, while Aieng and Mizo chillies will be bought from February to April. Procurement of Buhhum (paddy) has already begun and will extend until January next year.

This Monday meeting was attended by Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister P.C. Vanlalruata, Chief Minister's Adviser Dr. K.C. Lalmalsawmzauva, and other members of MAMB.