Aizawl, Sep 28 (FN Agency) Mizoram’s flagship ‘Hand Holding’ policy is set to boost financial assistance and support for entrepreneurs and farmers across the state, Commerce and Industries Minister F. Rodingliana said on Friday. Speaking at the ‘International Conference on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in North East’ organised by the Federation of Industries in North Eastern Region (FINER) in Aizawl, he underscored the government’s commitment to tapping the state’s potential in agro-based and horticulture-based industries. “To address the untapped potential, the current government has launched the ‘Hand Holding’ policy, which will continue to support MSMEs with allocations for cash crop cultivation and special funds to empower entrepreneurs,” Rodingliana said. He highlighted that ginger, turmeric, and chili have been identified as key cash crops, and dedicated funds have been earmarked in the state budget to maximise output and boost state revenue.
The scheme converges various programmes and central government schemes to benefit those in the agriculture and industrial sectors, the Minister added. “Mizoram aims to establish itself as a hub for agro-based and horticulture-based industries through this policy, generating employment opportunities and driving economic growth,” he said. Despite Mizoram’s geographical challenges and limited connectivity, the state’s high literacy rate, cultural unity, and peaceful environment make it an attractive destination for investment, the minister noted, inviting MSMEs from other Indian states and abroad to collaborate with local entrepreneurs.The event commenced with a welcome address by Bhaskar Kakoty, Director of FINER, who outlined the objectives of the conference and the organisation’s initiatives.
Diwakar, MSME Development Institute (DI), Mizoram, spoke about the Ministry of MSME’s efforts to support the sector in the state. The conference featured two sessions: the inaugural session in the morning and a technical session in the afternoon. During the technical session, Ru Yi Yong from Taiwan presented on “Bamboo Sector Opportunities,” while Jui Tai Hong from Taiwan discussed “Opportunities in MSME Sectors.” Dr. Himayoti Dutta, Assistant Professor at Mizoram University’s Department of Food Technology, shared insights on “Food Processing in Mizoram through Academia and Research Perspective.” The conference was attended by entrepreneurs from Mizoram and other states, as well as students from Mizoram University and five other colleges interested in entrepreneurship. The event aimed to address the challenges faced by MSMEs and explore growth opportunities in the sector.