CNI News
March 10, 2026
U Soe Htet, Chairman of the New Chin State Congress (NCC), told CNI News that although Chin State—the westernmost state in Myanmar—lacks mineral resources, its development could be achieved in a short period if electricity can be generated.
He noted that while previous governments attempted to implement hydropower projects in Chin State, they have not been fully realized to date. If permission is granted to resume these projects, there would be "nothing to worry about" regarding the state's future.
U Soe Htet stated: "Myanmar is currently facing an electricity shortage. Between Gangaw and Kalay, there is a hydropower project capable of producing 380 MW. Work began in 2008–2009 and was about 21% complete. However, it was halted during President U Thein Sein's administration at the same time the Myitsone project was suspended. If that can be implemented, we'd have 380 MW of hydropower.
View of Paletwa Town, Chin State.
Furthermore, in Paletwa, a survey was conducted by a French company on the Lemro (Lay Myoh) River about four or five years ago. There is a project there expected to yield 611 MW. If that is developed, the power could be sold to neighboring countries like Bangladesh and India, as well as within Myanmar. That is 'Lemro 1.' 'Lemro 2' could produce over 300 MW. It's just that we haven't received the authority to operate yet. If we get electricity, we can develop the entire state in a very short time."
Although Chin State lacks minerals, it possesses natural resources such as mountainous landscapes and scenery, which can be leveraged for tourism to drive local development. Additionally, the presence of rivers and creeks allows for hydropower generation that could serve not only Chin State but the entire country and international markets.
U Soe Htet also mentioned that the Falam Airport, which remains closed due to the current political shifts despite being 100% complete, could be reopened under a new government.
"Falam Airport is 100% finished," he said. "With the political changes, it remains closed, but we believe if a new government takes over, it can be reopened soon. Additionally, the Kaladan River project in Paletwa hasn't opened yet. There are many state projects and mutual aid projects with the Indian government, like the Yagyi road. We believe these can be implemented under a new administration."
View of Hakha City, Chin State.
Political and Strategic Significance
Military and political analysts point out that Chin State is vital in the current Myanmar political landscape because it borders India and Bangladesh, serving as a "Western Gate."
Since 2021, Chin State has become a major stronghold for the Spring Revolution. The resistance from the Chinland Defense Force (CDF) and the Chin National Front (CNF) plays a crucial role in Myanmar’s political turning point.
Analysts suggest that the situation in Chin State significantly impacts the military and political state of the entire country and is essential for the success of India's "Act East Policy." If Chin State is unstable, Myanmar's western gateway will effectively remain closed.
On February 5, 2026, Lieutenant General Gun Maw of the KIA stated that they are prioritizing efforts regarding Chin State affairs. He expressed belief that Chin State's resources could lead to nationwide success and that they are working diligently for the liberation of the entire state.
