Aizawl, Dec 14 (UNI) The visit of the central inter-ministerial team has brought some hope for necessary central aids to relieve the maladies of monsoon and "Mautam" (bamboo flowering) in Mizoram.

After making a spot study of the damages caused due to monsoon and Mautam, the central team led by ministry of home affairs' joint secretary (DM-II) O Ravi, had a meeting with the state officials yesterday evening to take stock of the situation.

State finance commissioner Lalmalsawma informed the central team that in addition to the monsoon related disasters, the state has been reeling under the cyclic Mautam, a bamboo flowering phenomenon that occurs every 48 years.

Mautam and its related rodent proliferation creates a lot of difficulties in Mizoram, which is also imperative to scientifically find the cause of this phenomenon and its prevention,he stated.

The team leader had reportedly assured the officials that centre would ensure necessary central aids to the affected state. The team had also met Governor M M Lakhera at his office before the wrap-up meeting.

The Governor also informed the team about the acute shortage of foodgrains being faced by the state and pleaded that unless the Centre acts fast Mizos would not be able to enjoy their biggest festival Christmas.

Underlining the financial hardship of the state, the governor pointed out that the total prohibition of liquor prevented collection of revenue to the excise department. The team members also assured the Governor of all possible help.

The central team went to meet acting chief minister Tawnluia and food, civil supplies&consumer affairs minister K Sangthuama.

UNI