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Mizoram - Where the Blue Mountains meet the Green Economy

- November 2023 | By Ansh Luthra

Mizoram, where the canvas is painted in hues of blue, earning its title of land of blue mountains, is lush green, with 85 per cent of the state draped in forest with staggering views. But there is more to this mystical land, being a tapestry of diverse cultures, immense hydro-electric power potential, and the crown of being the best green state and emerging startup ecosystem, Mizoram is set to stride towards a thriving green economy, ready to bloom.
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Strategic Location And Connectivity 

Mizoram is the southernmost state in northeast India, sharing a 722-kilometer-long international border with Myanmar and Bangladesh, making it a transit point for trade with Southeast Asia.

It is connected to the rest of India by six national highways, including NH 54. Aizawl’s Lengpui Airport provides domestic connectivity, along with 24 helipads in each district soon to be transformed into heliports.

With Bairabi-Sairang railway station and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Project linking Mizoram with the Myanmar port of Sittwe under construction, Mizoram is on its way to becoming a gateway to explore opportunities in Southeast Asia.

Tourism

Tucked in one corner of the country, Mizoram is unadulterated with scenic landscapes, be it the blue hills of Phawngpui and Reiek, which give Mizoram its name, the serene palak and Tamdil Lake, or the gurgling waterfall at Vantawng.

Apart from being a visual treat, its unique culture and grand festivals like Chapchar Kut, Lyuva Kutla, and the Anthurium Festival attract tourists from all over the globe.

Mizoram is home to a plethora of sanctuaries and reserves, including Murlen and Phawngpui National Parks, Vangchhia's archaeological site, and thrilling paragliding opportunities.

Mizoram has something to offer every palate; its irresistible landscapes, grand festivals, and enviable tranquillity make it an ideal investment destination for the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Agri-Horti Food Processing 

Mizoram being blessed with agro-climatic conditions and topographical variations, stands as the second largest producer of strawberries in India and also cultivates ample commercial fruits like dragon fruit, passion fruit, mandarin orange, banana, mango, grapes, and pineapple.

With Mizo chilli and Mizo ginger holding Geographical Indication Tags, the state also produces areca nut, chilli, turmeric, and areca nut niche crops and a bounty of vegetables, spices, oilseeds, pulses, plantation crops, medicinal, and aromatic plants, contributing significantly to the nation's agricultural diversity.

Bamboo And Forestry

Mizoram boasts the highest forest cover in the country, covering 84.5% of its geographical area.

Being the second largest bamboo-producing state in India, with bamboo forests covering 57% of its land, it makes up 14% of India's commercial bamboo supply and houses 20 species at present. This abundance of bamboo has promising potential for industries like bamboo charcoal, furniture, and ethanol production.

The state's 18,186 sq km of forested land is abundant in valuable timber trees and non-timber forest products, offering a promising resource base for sustainable development.

Handloom And Handicraft

Mizoram ranks third in mulberry silk production and is one of the leading players in the northeast. In FY22 (until December 2021), the state produced 57 metric tonnes of raw silk and is now exploring the realm of Muga silk production.

The handloom industry boasts a significant production value of $140,000.Thenzawl, often referred to as the "Handloom City of Mizoram," operates 2003 looms and has a production value of 10.8 crore.

Mizoram's handloom heritage shines through its five GI-tagged traditional attire products: Pawndum, Ngotekhreh, Hmaram, Twalhohpuan, and Mizo Puanchei.

Sports

Mizoram has made strides in sports development with a dedicated policy granting, 'Industry Status' to the sector. The state has emerged as a prominent sports hub, with a strong focus on football through the competitive Mizoram Premier League with approximately 100 talented Mizo players joining the Indian Super League.

Moreover, Mizoram hosted the thrilling Paragliding Accuracy World Cup in 2020, making it a global sports destination.

 

Mizoram's breathtaking landscapes are just a sneak peek into its true potential. With abundant resources, investor-friendly policies, and a strategic location at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, Mizoram is all set for steep economic growth. Mizoram's journey towards a thriving green economy promises a bright future filled with endless investment opportunities.