CHIEF MINISTER INAUGURATES THE RENGDIL KUHVA FESTIVAL

Rengdil, December 2025: Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma today inaugurated the Kuhva Festival organised by the Rengdil community at the Rengdil Sports Centre, supported by the Land Resources, Soil & Water Conservation Department. Deputy Speaker Pu Lalfamkima welcomed the Chief Minister, while Soil Minister Pu Lalthansanga presided over the event as the Kutpa (Festival Chief).

The Chief Minister said he was delighted that the people of Rengdil had produced an excellent Kuhva (areca nut) harvest this year. He praised their hard work and noted that their contribution was even greater than expected. He added that the government recognises their efforts and deeply appreciates them.

The Chief Minister’s key remarks included:

1. Government’s Expanded Support:
   He said that under the government’s accelerated development initiatives, efforts are being made to increase Kuhva production. This year, Mizoram has recorded the highest-ever Kuhva yield. Even in Rengdil alone, the earnings from Kuhva have risen significantly. Police personnel, volunteers, magistrates and all those involved in curbing illegal transport of Kuhva deserve credit for their sincere efforts, he added.
2. Rengdil’s Growth:
   The Chief Minister said Rengdil now has around 480 households, and almost every home owns a Kuhva plantation. He stated that people need easier access to financial assistance and that the government will work towards enabling Mizoram Rural Bank services in the area.
3. Statewide Production:
   According to Soil Department data, over 30,000 hectares across Mizoram are now under Kuhva cultivation. The state does not yet fully know the total output. Last year, around two quintals were harvested. If processing improves, Kuhva will contribute significantly to the state economy, he said.
4. Expanding Central Support:
   Although the Centre has not increased assistance for Kuhva plantations, the Chief Minister said the state government remains committed. Through flagship schemes like Handholding–Loan Component and the CM’s Special Packages, support for plantations will continue.
5. Processing Facilities:
   Since challenges remain in the marketing and processing of Kuhva, he said the government is working to set up proper processing systems. Using NEC funds of Rs 7.43 crore, two Kuhva processing plants are being constructed at Zamuang and Chemphai.
6. Infrastructure Requirements:
   The government understands the various needs of Kuhva farmers, such as medicine, fertilizers, drying facilities, pipes and link roads. All these will be carefully addressed, he promised.
7. Road Connectivity for Plantations:
   Under the Soil Department, link roads for plantations such as Kuhva, rubber and horticulture crops are being developed with NABARD and SASCI funds amounting to Rs 27.66 crore. Plans are underway to construct 170 km of link roads across key plantation areas.

Minister Pu Lalthansanga said Hachhek area had previously prospered from Serthlum and later from teak; now Kuhva is generating high income. To sustain progress, the government will continue efforts to stop smuggling and strengthen infrastructure. He assured farmers that the department would support them consistently.

Kuhva growers from Hachhek and Vairengte expressed gratitude to the government. During the Chief Minister’s earlier visit to Saipum, local leaders had also thanked him for the high Kuhva prices this season.

The programme was chaired by Er. Vanlalmuanpuia Chhangte, Director of Land Resources, Soil & Water Conservation. Rev. Lalhmunmawia Pachuau offered prayers, and Pu Victor MS Dawngliana, Secretary of the Kuhva Kut Organising Committee, presented a report.
This year, 21 villages under Hachhek constituency collectively contributed Kuhva worth Rs 3.7 crore. Harvesting continues, and incomes are expected to rise further.

Pu Kanan Lalhlimawma, President of Hachhek Kuhva Growers Association, also expressed gratitude to the government, saying the hard work of farmers must continue to be supported.