Photo Courtesy: nenow
Aizawl: Mizoram is pushing to turn rubber into a primary economic engine. The government launched Phase II of the Chief Minister’s Rubber Mission, targeting 2,649 hectares of new plantations across eight districts. This expansion effort follows the mission's 2024 launch, which seeks to add 11,500 hectares total over five years.
Vanlalmuanpuia Chhangte, Director of Land Resources, Soil and Water Conservation, confirmed the update on Friday. He noted that 2,580 beneficiaries have enrolled to plant 11.92 lakh rubber saplings. The project aims to reclaim wastelands and replace shifting cultivation. "The government views rubber cultivation as a sustainable alternative to shifting cultivation," Chhangte said.
The state holds nearly 50,000 hectares of land suitable for rubber, though only 7,000 hectares have been developed since the industry started in 1982. Phase I, which kicked off in early 2025, covered 1,000 hectares in Mamit and Kolasib. That initial push saw 936 farmers plant 4.5 lakh saplings, backed by 24 Rubber Producer Societies.
Officials are cutting costs for farmers to spur growth. The four-year support package provides free saplings, fertilizers, chemicals, fencing, and aid for terrace construction and fire protection. Payments move directly to bank accounts after field verification confirms the work. Additionally, the state will buy 100 rubber processing units this year to assist farmers with mature plantations.
The mission originated following meetings with Rubber Board Chairman Sawar Dhanania and study visits outside the state. Chief Minister Lalduhoma officially launched the program on December 16, 2024. Planners are already looking ahead. Phase III starts in 2027, though final acreage targets remain unsettled as the department surveys prospective growers.
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