Lalduhoma sworn in as 14th Mizoram CM, scraps previous govt's flagship scheme

Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) leader Lalduhoma was on Friday sworn in as the 14th chief minister of Mizoram and immediately announced several austerity measures for the government, citing the state's weak financial condition.

The chief minister said the previous Mizo National Front government's flagship Socio-Economic Development Programme would be scrapped. No new vehicles will be bought for MLAs while ministers will get only one vehicle plus another for backup. The Mizoram subordinate services selection board will be dismantled.

"Financial situation is bad. The RBI had warned the government. We will use the new financial year for consolidation," Lalduhoma said after governor Hari Babu Kambhampati administered the oath of office and secrecy to him and 11 other ministers at the Raj Bhavan. "Our top priority is the farmers. Finance department has ₹150 lakh (left) under the Socio-Economic Development Programme," the new CM said.


"New budget will be ZPM-oriented. New financial year will have accurate figures. Each department must also prepare an accurate budget," he said. The CM said a resource mobilisation committee will be established and that the "ministers will lead the way".