Aiming for a systematic purchase of broomsticks from farmers from next FY – Mizoram CM

Despite allocating Rs 110 crore by the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government in Mizoram for the procurement of four identified crops, including broomsticks and ginger, the implementation of the plan has been delayed due to technical issues.”In anticipation of RR Associates purchasing Mizoram-grown broomsticks at a government-fixed rate, unfortunately, the company couldn’t meet our expectations. Consequently, we advised broomstick growers to handle the situation independently,” Chief Minister Lalduhoma said during today’s session of the Mizoram State Assembly. Intervening in the discussion on the subject during Question Hour, the chief minister mentioned that starting from next year, they would adopt an area-wise approach, aiming for a systematic purchase of broomsticks from farmers.”As many have already sold their broomsticks, coupled with absence of societies in every area, implementing support prices is currently impractical,” he further explained.

The clarifications come amidst criticism directed at the ZPM government, stemming from its inability to procure broomsticks at the promised prices stated by the party prior to the elections. Social media posts have indicated that broomstick prices are currently at their lowest in Mizoram. Lalduhoma mentioned that the remaining funds from the previous government were utilised for the procurement of identified crops. “With the exception of broomsticks, there are buyers offering prices higher than the government’s fixed rates for the other three crops, hence, government’s intervention is unnecessary.” “In the case of broomsticks, the government is presently encountering technical difficulties, which we anticipate will be resolved by the upcoming harvesting season,” he remarked.

In response to queries from BJP legislator Dr. K Beichhua, Horticulture Minister Prof. Lalnilawma also affirmed the government’s dedication to acquiring Mizoram-grown gingers through societies established by ginger farmers.”As pledged prior to the elections, the minimum price for ginger will be set at Rs 50 per kilogram. Prices exceeding this threshold are to be negotiated between the growers and buyers. If farmers manage to sell their produce at rates higher than Rs 50 per kg, the government will refrain from intervening,” he said during today’s Budget session. The allocation of funds for the procurement of cash crops, particularly ginger, stood as one of the main planks of the ZPM party during the electioneering in the election to the state legislature held late last year.