Mizoram's CM Appeals for Special Financial Aid from Finance Commission Amidst Challenging Conditions
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Mizoram's Chief Minister <b>Lalduhoma</b> has requested the <b>16th Finance Commission</b> for special financial assistance due to the state's challenging conditions, including its difficult terrain, recurring natural disasters, and economic constraints. The appeal highlights the need for sustainable development and targeted financial support.
Key Takeaways
- Mizoram CM Lalduhoma appeals for financial aid.
- State faces challenges from natural disasters.
- Over 84% of land is forested, restricting development.
- High tribal population engaged in traditional occupations.
- Need for sustainable development and financial support.
Aizawl, Feb 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, on Monday called upon the 16th Finance Commission to consider special financial aid for the state due to its challenging terrain, recurring natural disasters such as floods and landslides, and issues like water scarcity. During a session with the Finance Commission, chaired by Arvind Panagariya, he highlighted that around 83.56 percent of Mizoram's revenue is derived from tax devolution and grants-in-aid, with merely 16.77 percent generated internally.
Lalduhoma elaborated on the state's distinct geographic and economic landscape, emphasizing that over 84 percent of Mizoram's land is forested, which complicates land availability. He underlined the necessity for sustainable land use, forest conservation, and financial assistance to tackle these pressing issues.
The Chief Minister noted that Mizoram has a predominantly tribal population, comprising 94.4 percent, with many engaged in traditional occupations.
“Even with a high literacy rate, the state encounters significant challenges due to its mountainous landscape, a scarcity of industrial prospects, and elevated costs for essential goods and transportation,” he stated, appealing for ongoing financial support from the Commission to foster sustainable development.
In the meeting, the state Finance Department provided a comprehensive overview of Mizoram’s financial history and current economic status.
The members of the 16th Finance Commission also discussed several important proposals from the Mizoram government, such as backing skill development programs for youth, maximizing bamboo resource utilization, and setting up additional nursing schools and colleges.
“The members of the Finance Commission assured that all requests would be thoroughly considered and that Mizoram’s financial requirements would receive appropriate attention,” mentioned an official from the Finance Department.
Several Ministers, Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena, Finance Commissioner & Secretary Vanlaldina Fanai, and various Secretaries and Directors from different departments were part of this crucial meeting.
The Chairman of the Finance Commission, along with three members—Ajay Narayan Jha, Annie George Mathew, and Manoj Panda—arrived in Aizawl on Sunday and met with Governor Gen Vijay Kumar Singh (retd) at the Raj Bhavan.
In this courtesy meeting, the Governor stressed the significance of addressing Mizoram's challenges and financial constraints due to low revenue collection when formulating recommendations for the Central government. He also pointed out the struggles in infrastructure development due to the state’s hilly terrain compared to other regions. Additionally, he mentioned the repercussions of conflicts in neighboring countries that have resulted in an influx of refugees, further straining the state, as reported by an official statement.
The Governor also highlighted the urgent need to tackle drug trafficking and improve law enforcement to combat this issue effectively. He emphasized the importance of upgrading the state's only airport and creating more job opportunities for the youth.
Throughout their four-day visit, the Finance Commission team will conduct a series of discussions with government officials, political parties, three Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), local bodies, trade and industry representatives, and village councils to gather insights on various state-related issues in preparation for their recommendations to the Centre.
An official statement revealed that the Commission will visit significant locations, including Zoram Medical College and Hospital in Falkawn, as well as Thenzawl and Serchhip, where they will tour the Handloom Centre and other vital sites. Their findings will be compiled into recommendations for the Union government.
The 16th Finance Commission was established on December 31, 2023, to evaluate and suggest a revenue-sharing framework between the Central and state governments for a five-year term starting April 1, 2026. As part of their national review of state finances, the Commission has visited 18 states, with Mizoram being the 19th.
