Mizoram’s Minister of State for Labour, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (LESDE), and Sports & Youth Services, Lalnghinglova Hmar, made a strong case for the state’s economic potential at the North East Investors Summit held in Chennai on February 5, 2025. The summit, organized by the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), was a platform for promoting the unique business opportunities that the Northeastern states, particularly Mizoram, offer to investors.
Addressing the gathering at the summit alongside DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Hmar stressed the growth trajectory of Mizoram’s economy, particularly in agriculture and allied sectors. He invited investors to consider the state as a prime location for business ventures, focusing on Mizoram’s agriculture-driven economy and its ongoing efforts to create a favorable investment climate.
Focus on Agriculture and Allied Sectors
During his speech, Minister Hmar emphasized the importance of agriculture in Mizoram’s economic framework. He pointed out that the state government is committed to stabilizing markets and ensuring fair prices for key agricultural produce like ginger, chili, turmeric, and broom grass. To further incentivize local farmers and businesses, the government is actively purchasing these products to guarantee stability and sustainable growth.
Mizoram’s agricultural products have gained recognition on national and international platforms. Notably, the state’s Thîngpui and Thînglaidum ginger varieties, along with Mizo chili, have been awarded prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tags, enhancing their marketability. These GI-tagged products offer exciting commercial prospects, with substantial potential for export and value-added processing.
The Bamboo Industry: A Growing Investment Opportunity
Another key sector that Minister Hmar highlighted at the summit was the bamboo industry. Mizoram, like many other states in the Northeast, is blessed with abundant bamboo resources, which are increasingly being viewed as a sustainable material for various industries. Hmar urged potential investors to consider setting up advanced bamboo processing units in the region, capitalizing on the growing demand for bamboo-based products both domestically and internationally.
Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia also emphasized the Northeast’s immense potential in the bamboo industry. He pointed out that the bamboo industry could become a cornerstone for sustainable economic growth in the region, encouraging businesses to explore the region’s untapped market.
Sports Infrastructure and Talent Development
The summit also provided an opportunity to discuss Mizoram’s rising potential in the sports sector. Hmar highlighted the Northeast’s well-established reputation as a talent hub, noting that Mizoram, in particular, has a strong track record in various sports, including football, boxing, and athletics. With India preparing to bid for the 2036 Olympics, Hmar called on investors to consider investing in sports infrastructure and training facilities to further develop the region’s athletic potential.
The state is committed to nurturing the youth’s sporting talent, and Hmar believes that robust investments in this sector could pave the way for world-class sports facilities and a thriving sports culture in Mizoram.
Mizoram’s Skilled Workforce and Tourism Potential
The state is also home to a highly employable youth population, particularly in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Hmar emphasized the skills and work ethic of the Mizo youth, urging investors to explore Mizoram’s potential as a key destination for expanding tourism and hospitality industries. With its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and unique traditions, Mizoram presents a promising opportunity for tourism-related investments, including hotels, resorts, and travel services.
Government Support and Policy Incentives
Scindia, in his address, reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to boosting the Northeast’s economy through policy support, infrastructure development, and incentives for investors. The government is actively working to create a conducive business environment, providing necessary facilitation to ensure ease of doing business and attracting long-term investments to the region.
The North East Investors Summit successfully brought together stakeholders from various Northeastern states to showcase their respective investment landscapes. In addition to Minister Hmar, Mizoram’s Special Secretary of Agriculture & Horticulture, Pi Ramdinliani, and Pi Maria CT Zuali, Director of Commerce & Industries, also presented the state’s agricultural prospects and investment opportunities.
Mizoram is emerging as a beacon of economic potential in the Northeast, with its focus on agriculture, bamboo, sports infrastructure, and skilled workforce. The state’s unique resources and government support offer abundant opportunities for investors looking to make a major impact in the region. As more businesses explore the potential of Mizoram, the state is poised to play a crucial role in driving economic growth and development in the Northeast.
The North East Investors Summit served as a vital platform for showcasing Mizoram’s investment landscape, and with continued collaboration between the state government and private sector, the future of business in Mizoram looks promising.
