— Attachment Content: TOI.docx —H.C. VanlalruataAizawl: State Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Friday has raised a range of issues concerning Mizoram and the northeast region during an interaction with NITI Aayog, Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries of north-eastern states at the NITI Aayog office in New Delhi.Lalduhoma welcomed the appointment of Dr. Joram Aniya, a native of the northeast region, as a member of NITI Aayog and appreciated the initiative of holding a dedicated meeting with leaders of the region.Among the key issues raised by the Chief Minister was the need for a separate All India Services (AIS) cadre for Mizoram. He said the matter had also been discussed with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and argued that a separate cadre would better serve the state’s administrative and developmental requirements.Lalduhoma also highlighted the proposed Peace City project at Thenzawl and sought continued support for its development. Referring to his personal involvement in efforts to bring peace to Mizoram during the insurgency period, he said the project should be pursued with sustained commitment.As Convener of the High-Level Task Force on the Northeast Economic Corridor, the Chief Minister stressed the need for early completion of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, describing it as vital for regional connectivity and economic growth. He also urged the timely completion of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which has faced repeated delays.The Chief Minister called for a review of the Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks Programme in the Northeast, particularly in Mizoram. He said the existing criteria do not adequately reflect the realities of hilly and border states and should be revised accordingly.He further pointed out that several Centrally Sponsored Scheme guidelines are not fully suited to the unique conditions of northeastern states and suggested that they be adapted to local geographical and socio-economic realities.Seeking support from NITI Aayog, Lalduhoma also called for faster implementation of infrastructure and value-addition facilities under the Mizoram Ginger Mission. In addition, he highlighted the state’s plans in the tourism sector and briefed participants on the progress of the Empowering Mizoram Sports initiative and future proposals under the programme.On financial support for the region, the Chief Minister said the Centre’s provision of 10 per cent Gross Budgetary Support for the Northeast has been beneficial. However, he suggested that states should be given greater flexibility in utilising such funds for priority schemes and development projects identified by their respective governments.During the meeting, NITI Aayog CEO Nidhi Chhibber welcomed the participants, while NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri outlined the objectives of the interaction and key areas of focus. EOM
