Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma announced on Monday that the state government is in the process of preparing a draft memorandum of agreement (MoA) to transfer the state’s lone airport, Lengpui Airport, to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Addressing the Assembly, Lalduhoma, who also oversees the general administration department, stated that a working committee was reconstituted on November 11 last year to oversee the maintenance and management of the airport.
The committee, chaired by Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) legislator TBC Lalvenchhunga, is responsible for drafting the MoA.
“The draft MoA is under preparation and has not yet been presented to the cabinet,” Lalduhoma informed the House, responding to questions from opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) legislator K. Laldawngliana.
The chief minister also highlighted ongoing consultations with stakeholders, including NGOs from Lengpui and state-level representatives, during meetings held in January.
The government has engaged with the NGO Coordination Committee, a coalition of five major civil society and student organisations, to seek consensus.
Both sides agreed to advocate for upgrading Lengpui Airport before the 16th Finance Commission.
Lalduhoma revealed that the state government has allocated Rs. 86 crore for renovating and upgrading the airport’s runway, including increasing the Pavement Classification Number (PCN) from 36 to 50 to enhance its capacity.
In response to supplementary questions, Lalduhoma announced plans to expand helicopter services across Mizoram, including constructing new helipads and heliports with refuelling facilities in all 11 districts.
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However, the proposal to transfer Lengpui Airport to the IAF has faced strong opposition from various quarters, including the MNF, Congress, and organisations like the Young Mizo Association (YMA), the largest civil society group in the state.
YMA leaders recently urged the chief minister to reconsider the decision.
The MNF has threatened to intensify protests if the transfer proceeds despite widespread public opposition.
On March 5, the MNF warned of escalated demonstrations, while the state assembly previously rejected a private resolution on February 21 aimed at halting the proposed handover.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between state and central interests, with the government emphasizing infrastructure development amid growing resistance from opposition parties and local organisations.
