Surplus power by end of 11th Plan for Mizoram

AIZAWL, March 10: The Mizoram Government has guaranteed the Centre of self-sufficiency in power generation and ability to export energy by the end of the 11th Plan, if New Delhi could offer a range of concessions for the speedy implementation of power projects in the State, reports UNI. Placing Mizoram in the bracket of an 'underdeveloped' State, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said that should the Centre relax norms for techno-economic and environmental clearance for power projects in undeveloped States such as Mizoram and provide for adequate financial assistance, he would ensure that by the end of the 11th Plan, this hill State would not only be self-sufficient in power but would also be in a position to export it to other needy areas. Zoramthanga, also in-charge of the power department, announced this at New Delhi during the Chief Ministers' meet on power called by the Prime Minister last week. But at present the current power scenario was so gloomy that there had been no growth in agricultural and industrial sectors, the Chief Minister admitted. "The storage of power has caused stagnancy in all spheres of developmental activity. Industrial entrepreneurs hesitate to come forward for setting up of units since adequate and reliable power could not be ensured."