Mizoram NGOCC Appeals to CM Lalduhoma
The Mizoram-based NGO Coordination Committee (NGOCC), which represents various civil society organizations and student bodies, including the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA), has urged Chief Minister Lalduhoma to reconsider the decision to hand over Lengpui Airport to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The committee met with the CM on February 7 to voice their concerns.
State Government’s Position on Lengpui Airport
Chief Minister Lalduhoma acknowledged the NGOCC’s request and clarified that Lengpui Airport is currently the only airport in the country managed and owned by the state government. He emphasized the state’s financial difficulties in maintaining the airport, which has led to the consideration of transferring it to the IAF.
Commitment to Maintain Ownership
The Chief Minister reassured the NGOCC that the state government intends to continue owning and managing the airport. To improve the infrastructure, including the runway, the government plans to seek funds from the Finance Commission.
Pending Decision on Airport Handover
TBC Lalvenchhunga, Chief Minister’s Finance Adviser and head of the Working Committee on Lengpui Airport, stated that the state cabinet has not yet made a final decision regarding the airport’s handover to the IAF. He further revealed that the draft Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the handover is still under preparation.
