Mizoram’s biggest asset is bamboo: 16th Finance Commission chairman

Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission Dr Arvind Panagariya, on February 24, highlighted bamboo as Mizoram's biggest asset during a press conference at Aijal Club. 
 

He emphasised the diverse applications of bamboo, noting that many orders for the products are received from other states. He urged the state government to focus on meeting these demands and maximizing its economic potential.
 

Addressing the issue of Lengpui Airport’s proposed handover to the Indian Air Force, Dr. Panagariya expressed his confusion over the reluctance of the Mizo people to share the facility with the IAF. He pointed that several airports across India operate under a shared arrangement with the Air Force and suggested that Mizoram could follow a similar model.
 

Dr. Panagariya also announced that the 16th Finance Commission would include provisions for disaster relief in Mizoram, covering earthquakes, fires, floods, and heavy rains.
 

The Finance Commission earlier held a meeting with the Mizoram government, led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, where the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of the meeting in shaping a progressive financial roadmap for the state. He highlighted Mizoram’s unique geographical and economic conditions, noting that over 84 per cent of its land is covered by forests, making land availability a challenge. He stressed the need for sustainable land use, conservation of forests, flora, and fauna, and special financial considerations to address these challenges.
 

Lalduhoma also pointed out that Mizoram, with its predominantly tribal population, has a significant workforce engaged in traditional occupations. Despite the state’s high literacy rate, development is hindered by its mountainous terrain, limited industrial opportunities, and high costs of essential goods and transportation. He urged the Finance Commission to continue providing financial support to overcome these obstacles and ensure sustainable growth.
 

Furthermore, the Chief Minister highlighted that nearly 83.56 per cent of Mizoram’s revenue comes from Tax Devolution and Grants-in-Aid, while only 16.77 per cent is generated internally. Given the state’s difficult terrain, frequent natural disasters, and issues such as floods, landslides, and water scarcity, he called for special financial consideration from the Finance Commission to address these persistent challenges.
 

The 16th Finance Commission has already visited 18 states across India. It was established on December 31, 2023, under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution. The commission is chaired by Dr. Arvind Panagariya and includes Ajay Narayan Jha, Annie George Matthew, and Manoj Panda as full-time members, along with other officials.