ZPM Government's Crop Purchase Policy Boosts Plantation Areas in Mizoram

The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) government's initiative to purchase four key agricultural and horticultural crops has significantly increased plantation areas in Mizoram. With fixed minimum prices, the program 'Bana Kaih' has led to higher cultivation of ginger, turmeric, chilli, and broom sticks, uplifting farmers economically.

The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) government's plan to purchase agricultural and horticultural produce from farmers has led to a marked increase in plantation areas for various crops in Mizoram, according to official sources.

Adhering to its pre-election promise, the ZPM government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Lalduhoma, announced the purchase of ginger, turmeric, chilli, and broom sticks shortly after coming to power last December. This initiative, part of the flagship program 'Bana Kaih' or the hand-holding policy, aims to economically uplift farmers by ensuring market support and fixed minimum prices for these crops.

Officials from the state's horticulture department reported a significant rise in the cultivation of organic ginger, turmeric, and Mizo chilli, attributing this growth to the government's promise of market support and fixed minimum prices. Ginger cultivation now spans 27,608.5 acres involving 25,102 families, with an expected harvest of over 19,000 quintals. Turmeric cultivation has reached over 4,281 acres, involving 3,415 families, expecting 81,000 quintals of produce, while Mizo chilli is cultivated on 11,800 acres by 8,600 families, expected to yield 37,000 quintals by year-end.

(With inputs from agencies.)