Mizoram agri practices linked to tribal life: Min

Aizawl: Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan highlighted on Thursday that Mizoram's agricultural practices are fundamentally connected to its tribal communities' way of life.

During the inauguration of the College of Horticulture's administrative-academic building in Thenzawl, Serchhip district, Chauhan said the state's primary horticultural produce — including passion fruit, mandarin orange, banana, mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, cabbage, tomato, brinjal, chow-chow, ginger, turmeric, and chili — are ideally suited to the region's environmental conditions. He expressed concern that despite abundant rainfall, the state currently utilises only 4.5% of its cultivable land, with most cultivation occurring in mountainous regions.

"Additionally, oil palm cultivation is emerging as an innovative agricultural activity in the state. In the year 2021–22, agriculture and allied sectors contributed Rs. 6,13,716 lakh to the state's Gross Domestic Product, reflecting the central role of agriculture in Mizoram's economy," he said.

CM Lalduhoma, speaking at the event, praised the College of Horticulture, Thenzawl's development since 2016 into a centre of excellence. He emphasised that the college, situated in one of Mizoram's most significant locations, provides comprehensive education combining academic excellence with practical application.

He noted that the BSc (Hons) in horticulture programme, following ICAR's 5th Dean Committee recommendations, prepares students for leadership roles in horticulture.