In an effort to attract corporate social responsibility funding for development initiatives, Mizoram on Tuesday launched a dedicated digital platform designed to connect corporate donors with implementing agencies across the state.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma inaugurated the CSR Matchmaking Portal, branded as Mizoram CSR Connect, at McCabe Hall, describing it as a major step towards improving coordination, transparency and ease of doing CSR in the state.
Developed by the Mizoram CSR Cell under the Planning and Programme Implementation Department in collaboration with UNDP India, the portal aims to provide a structured and transparent interface for CSR engagement.
Addressing the programme, the Chief Minister said Mizoram received only 0.06 per cent of India’s total CSR expenditure during 2023–24, highlighting the need for a systematic mechanism to draw greater corporate participation. He said the CSR Cell was set up in the Chief Minister’s Office in June 2024 to strengthen engagement with corporates and ensure better utilisation of available opportunities.
He said the portal would function as a digital bridge between CSR contributors and project proponents, allowing companies to identify credible initiatives while ensuring accountability and measurable outcomes.
Highlighting Mizoram’s development potential, Lalduhoma cited the state’s peaceful environment, high literacy rate, progress on Sustainable Development Goals and low levels of corruption as key strengths that make it a suitable destination for CSR investments.
Inviting corporate houses and civil society organisations to partner in the state’s development efforts, he assured that CSR funds would be utilised responsibly with clear social impact.
Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative of UNDP India, described the portal as a forward-looking initiative with relevance beyond Mizoram. She reiterated UNDP’s commitment to supporting the state’s development priorities, particularly in sustainable development, women’s empowerment and environmental conservation. She also underlined the importance of data-driven planning, noting that the platform would help CSR stakeholders make informed decisions.
Secretary, Planning and Programme Implementation Department Lalmalsawma Pachuau delivered the welcome address, while Adviser to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Mizoram CSR Cell TBC Lalvenchhunga outlined key CSR opportunities in the state.
The event also witnessed the exchange of memoranda of understanding between the Mizoram Start-Up Mission and participating corporate and institutional partners.
Article Credit: thenewsmill