CM Lalduhoma Presents Mizoram’s Needs to the 16th Finance Commission

Regional leaders from the Northeast jointly submit proposals for equitable fiscal allocation

Aizawl : Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma participated in a high-level consultative meeting with members of the 16th Finance Commission, held at the Imperial Hotel, New Delhi. The event brought together Chief Ministers and senior officials from the eight Northeastern states, who shared their respective states’ financial priorities and challenges.

In his remarks, Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted several key concerns unique to Mizoram, seeking the Commission’s support in addressing structural disadvantages faced by the hill state.

Key demands put forth by Chief Minister Lalduhoma included:

1. Increased Tax Devolution Share:
   The Chief Minister emphasized the need for a greater share of devolved taxes for Mizoram. He argued that the existing formula, which heavily relies on population as a criterion, puts sparsely populated hill states like Mizoram at a disadvantage. He urged the Commission to incorporate alternative criteria that account for geographical challenges and developmental needs.
2. Fair Representation in Allocation Criteria:
   Lalduhoma pointed out that criteria such as total population disproportionately benefit larger states. He recommended the adoption of parameters that reflect the needs of less populous regions like Mizoram, ensuring a more balanced distribution of central funds.
3. Disaster Risk Funding Reforms:
   The Chief Minister appealed for the inclusion of Mizoram under the major disaster funding categories. While disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, and cyclones are already covered under disaster risk indices, Mizoram’s unique vulnerabilities due to hilly terrain and frequent natural calamities also deserve adequate funding support.
4. Transport Subsidies for Remote States:
   Noting the logistical challenges of operating in a mountainous and landlocked region, Lalduhoma requested special consideration for transportation costs. He recommended that transportation hardships be formally included as a factor in fiscal transfers.
5. Increased Grants for Autonomous District Councils and Rural Local Bodies:
   The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening grassroots governance. He called for enhanced grants to District Councils and continuous support for rural local bodies, vital for inclusive development in the state.

The meeting was also attended by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, and other senior representatives from Northeastern states. Collectively, they submitted a Joint Memorandum to the Finance Commission, advocating for the region’s shared concerns.

The 16th Finance Commission is responsible for recommending the formula for distribution of central taxes and grants to the states for the period beginning April 1, 2026. The Commission operates under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution and plays a crucial role in shaping the fiscal relationship between the Union and state governments.

The consultation marked an important step in the ongoing work of the Commission, which has already undertaken state visits including to Mizoram. The meeting with Northeast Chief Ministers reflects the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity in policy formulation.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s participation reinforces Mizoram’s proactive approach in seeking fair and region-specific financial support from the Centre, in line with the broader vision for balanced national development.