A high-level delegation from the 16th Finance Commission, led by Chairman Arvind Panagariya, arrived in Aizawl on February 23 for a four-day visit to assess Mizoram’s fiscal needs and development priorities. Upon arrival, the delegation met Governor Vijay Kumar Singh, who highlighted the state’s financial constraints and urged the commission to consider Mizoram’s low revenue generation while making recommendations to the Central Government.
During their visit, the Finance Commission will hold discussions with Chief Minister Lalduhoma and senior state officials at the Secretariat. Stakeholder consultations will include meetings with political parties, Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), local bodies, trade and industry representatives, and rural local bodies at Falkawn. The delegation will also conduct site visits to key locations, including the Perennial Sinking Area at Hunthar Veng, Zoram Medical College & Hospital, and BNRGSK, to assess infrastructure challenges firsthand. A cultural event and press briefing are also scheduled at Aijal Club.
Mizoram’s leaders view the visit as a crucial opportunity to advocate for greater fiscal devolution and ensure that the state’s developmental and financial needs are effectively addressed in the Finance Commission’s recommendations.
