Mizoram is stepping up efforts to protect arecanut plantations from a pest infestation that has affected the crop since 2021. Chief Minister Lalduhoma said the state is preparing a report on the causes and control measures, and is considering financial support for growers. Arecanut covers about 67,380 hectares in the state, with production estimated at 5.12 lakh quintals in 2025-26. The government is also looking beyond pest control. Officials are holding discussions with carbon trading agencies and aggregators about carbon credit opportunities, since arecanut, rubber and coffee plantations absorb carbon dioxide. In addition, the state has secured Rs 27.66 crore to build 170 km of link roads to plantations. Intercropping arecanut with cocoa is being explored with ICAR. More details are expected once the report is submitted to the Union Agriculture Ministry.
