Aizawl: A new areca nut processing unit was inaugurated in Mizoram’s Kolasib district on Friday, with Chief Minister Lalduhoma launching the facility near the Assam border, according to an official statement.
Set up by SSB Agro, the unit is aimed at strengthening the state’s agricultural sector and providing a reliable market for areca nut farmers in the region.
The event, held at Buhchangphai, was attended by Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister PC Vanlalruata, Deputy Speaker Lalfamkima, and adviser to the Chief Minister and MLA Lalmuanpuia Punte.
Addressing the gathering, Lalduhoma said Mizoram currently has around 30,000 hectares under areca nut cultivation.
The Chief Minister highlighted the impact of the government’s crackdown on areca nut smuggling, which he said has helped secure better market outcomes for local growers.
He added that industry infrastructure would continue to expand, with state-run processing units at Chemphai in Kolasib district and Zamuang in Mamit district expected to become operational next year.
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The CM lauded SSB Agro’s efficiency and welcomed its procurement agreement with the Mizoram Areca Nut Marketing Cooperative Society, expressing confidence that the partnership would benefit the local farming community.
