Aizawl, March 16 Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma told the Assembly on Monday that the state government has terminated negotiations with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to hand over Lengpui airport to the defence wing.
Speaking during the question hour on the last day of the Budget session, Lalduhoma said while the IAF had presented a "favourable" offer, the government chose to pivot towards the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to respect the sentiments of local stakeholders.
He, however, said the offer from AAI was less attractive.
Lalduhoma clarified that the decision to walk away from the IAF deal was largely driven by opposition from civil society groups and political parties.
"Since NGOs and various political parties expressed a strong preference for the AAI, we have ceased all discussions with the IAF. As of now, there is no pending agreement or communication between us and the IAF regarding handing over the airport," the CM said.
He also highlighted a major point of contention regarding the potential privatisation of the state's only airport.
"We are aware that the AAI may look to outsource operations once they take over. Because of this, we insisted on a clause requiring the Mizoram government's prior approval before the airport is handed over to a third party. The AAI is resisting this condition," the CM told the House.
He said that a formal valuation of the infrastructure and buildings at Lengpui airport is currently underway.
Once finalised, the AAI is expected to compensate the Mizoram government for these assets, he said.
Despite the friction regarding the "veto power" clause, the CM expressed optimism, stating that the government hoped to sign a final agreement with the AAI in the near future.
