Mizoram has witnessed a significant decline in the smuggling of drugs and Burmese areca nuts from Myanmar, thanks to tightened security measures along the international border, officials said. Chief Minister Lalduhoma was briefed about the developments during a review meeting on November 19, 2025, which also assessed the functioning of the Home Department and the Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Department.
Home Department officials informed that 12 police stations and 10 Assam Rifles duty posts are now stationed along the 510-km Mizoram–Myanmar border, with enhanced vigilance and coordinated operations playing a key role in curbing illicit activities.
In a major step toward regulated cross-border trade, the state government is moving forward with plans to operationalize border haats, with the first one to be constructed at Zote in Champhai district, as directed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This initiative is expected to provide a legal channel for trade, reducing reliance on smuggling.
Since October 2025, a total of 21,238 people have been issued passes under the Free Movement Regime (FMR), allowing for legal and regulated movement between India and Myanmar. Authorities noted that this system not only facilitates legitimate crossings but also helps distinguish illegal activity more effectively.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the next round of talks between Mizoram and Assam to resolve a long-pending inter-state border dispute, highlighting the state government’s proactive approach to both international and domestic border management.
Officials emphasized that the combination of increased security, regulated trade, and community engagement is expected to maintain the declining trend in smuggling, ensuring better law and order and supporting the local economy in Mizoram.
