Imphal: Aiming to attract greater corporate participation in its development agenda, the Mizoram government has launched a dedicated online platform that will connect companies with projects and implementing agencies across the state.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Tuesday inaugurated the CSR Matchmaking Portal, known as Mizoram CSR Connect, at McCabe Hall. The platform is expected to streamline engagement between corporate donors, government agencies and civil society organisations by providing a transparent and structured framework for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

The portal has been developed by the Mizoram CSR Cell under the Planning and Programme Implementation Department in partnership with UNDP India. It is designed to help organisations identify projects, assess opportunities and channel CSR resources more effectively.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister highlighted that Mizoram accounted for only 0.06 per cent of the country's total CSR expenditure during 2023-24. He said the state needed a dedicated mechanism to improve outreach to corporate entities and encourage greater investment in social development programmes.

He noted that the CSR Cell was established in the Chief Minister's Office in June 2024 with the objective of strengthening engagement with corporate partners and improving access to CSR opportunities. Inviting companies and civil society groups to participate in the state's development journey, 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.

Lusigi also emphasised the role of data-driven planning in CSR implementation, stating that the platform would enable stakeholders to make more informed decisions while identifying projects and measuring outcomes.

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, highlighted key areas where CSR investment could contribute to the state's growth and development.

The event also featured the exchange of memoranda of understanding between the Mizoram Start-Up Mission and participating corporate and institutional partners, signalling broader collaboration efforts to support entrepreneurship and innovation in the state.

BI Bureau