Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday, July 14, 2025, to discuss a wide range of issues crucial for the development and security of the northeastern state. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister's official residence, focused on infrastructure projects, the impact of the ongoing conflict in neighboring Myanmar, and the state's flagship development initiatives.
Key Discussion Points:
The extensive discussions between CM Lalduhoma and PM Modi covered several vital areas:
- Myanmar Conflict and its Fallout on Mizoram:
- A significant part of the discussion revolved around the armed conflict in Myanmar's Chin state and its direct implications for Mizoram.
- Lalduhoma briefed the Prime Minister on the recent influx of over 4,000 refugees from Myanmar's border villages into Mizoram, following intense gunfights between the Chin National Defence Force (CNDF) and the Chinland Defence Force (CDF). Mizoram has already been sheltering over 32,000 refugees since the 2021 military coup in Myanmar.
- While many of the recent arrivals have started returning, the CM highlighted the continued humanitarian and security challenges faced by Mizoram due to the instability across the border.
- Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line Inauguration:
- Lalduhoma formally requested PM Modi to personally inaugurate the newly constructed 51.38 km-long Bairabi-Sairang railway line and the Sairang Railway Station on the outskirts of Aizawl.
- The Prime Minister reportedly agreed to undertake the inauguration at a mutually convenient time, signaling the Centre's commitment to improving connectivity in the Northeast. This railway line is a major achievement, bringing Mizoram's capital, Aizawl, onto the national railway map after over 25 years since its conceptualization.
- Northeast Gas Pipeline Project:
- The Chief Minister raised the issue of the ₹9,265 crore Northeast gas pipeline project, being undertaken by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL).
- Lalduhoma emphasized the need for timely execution of this project, which aims to provide piped gas connections to households in Aizawl, significantly reducing dependence on gas cylinders.
- PM Modi assured full support and urged the Deputy Commissioner of Mamit district, through which the pipeline passes, to take proactive steps to facilitate the work.
- Thenzawl Peace City Project:
- The proposed Thenzawl Peace City Project was also discussed, with CM Lalduhoma seeking central support for this key developmental initiative aimed at promoting tourism and economic activity in the region.
- Upgrading Aizawl to Thenzawl Road:
- Lalduhoma requested the Centre's support for upgrading the World Bank-funded Aizawl to Thenzawl road into a national highway, a critical step for improving intra-state connectivity.
- "Hand-holding Scheme" (Bana-kaih Scheme):
- The Chief Minister provided an update on the progress of his government's flagship "Hand-holding scheme" (locally known as "Bana-kaih" scheme), which is a key component of the ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM)'s agenda to uplift the state's economy and provide direct support to families.
Context and Significance of the Meeting:
This meeting underscores the Modi government's sustained focus on the development of the Northeast region, often termed the "Ashta Lakshmi" (eight forms of Lakshmi) for its potential. For Mizoram, securing central government support is crucial for executing large-scale infrastructure projects and addressing persistent challenges like the refugee influx.
- Connectivity Push: The Prime Minister's agreement to inaugurate the railway line highlights the Centre's emphasis on enhancing connectivity to the remote corners of the Northeast, vital for economic integration and security.
- Border Management: The discussion on the Myanmar conflict emphasizes the complex geopolitical dynamics along India's eastern border and the humanitarian burden borne by border states like Mizoram. The Centre and state are working to manage this delicate situation.
- Development Agenda: Lalduhoma's discussions focused on leveraging central assistance for major development projects, aligning with his government's promises to bring about change and improve the lives of the Mizo people.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both leaders expressing commitment to the continued progress and well-being of Mizoram. The direct engagement between the state and central leadership is expected to expedite the implementation of various key projects in the state.
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