Hon’ble Speaker and Hon’ble Members, 

                        It gives me pleasure to have this opportunity to address you, the duly elected representatives of the people of Mizoram at the commencement of the 12^th session of the 7^th Legislative Assembly of Mizoram. I would like to begin by conveying my sincere greetings and warm wishes to this August House and to the people of Mizoram. It is my heartfelt desire that our State continues on its path of lasting peace and strive towards prosperity, be it economic or social. I am sure that Mizoram will serve as an example of sustainable development and equitable growth not only for its neighbours in the region but for the country as a whole. 

2.         I would like to begin with the agriculture sector and inform you that  the Govt. of Mizoram is committed to enhance agricultural crop production and increase productivity to make agriculture a viable and sustainable means of livelihood support.  New Land Use Policy (NLUP) has contributed to an increase in rice production since its inception and has also resulted in a decrease in Jhum area which reflects the shift towards permanent cultivation. Land area under Oil Palm cultivation has seen a manifold increase with  resultant increase in production. Funds received under Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) are being ulitized under Production Growth and Infrastructure & Assets components. Implementation of various components under National Food Security Mission (NFSM)  for increasing foodgrain production in the State is ongoing  in all 8  Districts under  NFSM-Rice, NFSM-Pulses and NFSM-Coarse cereals. There are several other schemes like National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), National Mission for Oil Seed & Oil Palm (NMOOP), National Mission for Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET) and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) that are currently being implemented to benefit the agricultural sector in the State. Sustainable Agriculture Development through Expansion, Enhancement and Modelling in the state of Mizoram is one of the new schemes introduced during 2015-16, funded by National Adaptation Fund under Climate Change (NAFCC) which covers 4 Districts namely Aizawl, Mamit, Serchhip and Kolasib Districts. 

3.         There have been notable achievements in the Horticulture sector in the State. Efforts are on to construct several horticulture Link Roads to connect potential areas of Horticultural importance. With funds made available under RKVY, efforts are also being made to achieve self-sufficiency and sustenance of farmers with High-Value vegetable cultivation, promoting Green-House cultivation and Post Harvest Infrastructure, Farmers Training and individual water tanks. Micro-irrigation with drip-irrigation facilities are being provided to ensure efficient water use and improve productivity under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sanchai Yojana (PMKSY). Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) is another scheme where various programs have been taken up. 

4.         Sericulture Department is continuing with production of Silk-worm eggs and raw silk. Two Mulberry Projects under North Eastern Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) are underway in Lunglei and Champhai Districts. Integrated Muga Silk Development Project under NERTPS was launched on 2^nd December 2016 with a Project Cost of Rs. 1352.09 lakhs 

5.         During 2016, Soil & Water Conservation Department continued ongoing projects of Rubber Plantation created during the previous year covering 150 families with financial assistance from NABARD. Rubber Plantations have also been created covering the 5 potential Districts of Mamit, Lunglei, Kolasib, Lawngtlai and Serchhip. This is in addition to creation of 10 Rubber Nurseries in 6 Districts, also with assistance from NABARD. 

6.         Commerce & Industries Department participated in Indian International Trade Fair held in New Delhi from 14^th – 20^th November 2016. As many as 11 local entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to exhibit their products which resulted in sales worth Rs. 10.00 lakh despite Demonetization. Steps are being taken to establish Agriculture Marketing Infrastructure in Lunglei for which Ramthar Branch YMA has graciously donated land. Apparel and Garment Making Center at IGC Luangmual, established by Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India was inaugurated on 6^th June 2016 and is ready for operation. Skill Development Center at Lunglei under ASIDE Scheme is almost complete and work is in progress in respect of upgradation of Industrial Estate, Zuangtui under MIIUS. 

7.           In pursuance of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of India and the Government of Myanmar and on cooperation in the construction/upgradation of the Rih-Tiddim Road in 2012, the Government of India recently informed the Government of Mizoram to take steps for undertaking of projects. The Government of India has assured that Rih-Tiddim road of about 80 kms would be developed to improve the connectivity with Zokhawthar. Better security measures will also be imposed to curb the illegal trade between the two countries. In respect of Border Trade with Bangladesh, a plot of land measuring 9 Acres has already been earmarked for the construction of Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Kawrpuichhuah. 

8.         Environment, Forests and Climate Change Department of my Government has been working towards reforestation, afforestation and wildlife preservation through programs like National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Intensification of Forest Management (IFM), National Agro-Forestry Bamboo Mission (NABM), Green India Mission (GIM), Green Mizoram Programme (GMP), Compensatory Afforestation Management & Planning Authority (CAMPA), Project Tiger and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat (IDWH). A Project titled ‘Enhanced Climatic Resilience and Ecosystem-based Livelihood of Vulnerable Communities in NE India’ has been prepared. I would also like to inform the House that Mizoram has been selected for executing REDD+ Project (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) which will be funded by GIZ. Climate Change Adaptation in North Eastern States (CCA-NER) project under DoNER Ministry with technical cooperation of GIZ has been initiated in Mizoram. It is a matter of pride to announce that Mizoram has adopted Fire Mascot named ‘Khitea’ to be the first among the States of India to do so to convey fire prevention message. 

9.         There are 14 on-going Minor Irrigation Projects under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and 11 under NABARD-RIDF XXI. During the current financial year, 5 new Minor Irrigation projects are to be started with RIDF-XXII under NABARD. A project called ‘The Project on Capacity Enhancement for Sustainable Agriculture and Irrigation Development in Mizoram’ was signed between the Govt. of Mizoram and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on 26^th October 2016. 

10.       Sports and Youth Services is another area where the Government has placed and will continue to place special focus on. There are several steps that have been taken to improve sporting infrastructure. North Eastern Council (NEC) has sanctioned funds for construction of Multipurpose Sports Complex at Aizawl West Joint YMA Field, Vaivakawn, construction of Youth Recreation Centre – cum – Amalgamated Office Complex for Sports & Youth Services Department at New Secretariat Complex, Aizawl and Multipurpose Indoor Hall at Sihphir in 2016.  There also are several ongoing works and projects nearing completion. R. Dengthuama Multipurpose Indoor Stadium at Mualpui, built with funds from Govt. of India has been inaugurated. I would like to point out a few notable achievements of athletes and sportspersons from Mizoram in the recent year. Vanlalrinmawii and Lalkrosmawia won the Silver and Bronze medal respectively in Weightlifting in the 62^nd National School Games. A Boxing Coach from Mizoram was selected to lead and escort the Indian Boxing Team which participated in the Youth World Boxing Championship 2016 at St. Petersburg, Russia in November 2016 where it bagged a gold and bronze medal. H. Lalruatfeli represented India in Womens Hockey at the Rio Olympics and also won a Gold medal at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament in November 2016. Lalrintluangi, NCC Cadet from 1^st Mizo Battalion was selected to participate in ‘NCC First Mt. Everest Expedition, 2016’ and successfully scaled the summit in May 2016 to become the first woman from Mizoram to do so. 

11.       The Government has undertaken a large number of major Social Welfare initiatives for differently-abled persons, the aged and infirm, poor, destitute & widows, economically and socially handicapped persons and women and children. It also takes steps to combat drug abuse, alcoholism, trafficking of women and children, juvenile delinquency, orphans and other social defence services. Forty-four NGOs have been provided financial assistance to the tune of Rs. 56.25 lakhs in the current year. Some major projects include establishment of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), construction of ST Girls Hostels, establishment of Vocational Training Centers (VTCs), Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana (VKY), construction of One Stop Center (OSC) at Durtlang for women affected by violence and construction of Anganwadi centers. 

12.      The Tourism Department under the Government has made endless efforts over the years to promote tourism in the state. 7 Tourist Lodges within Siaha District have been commissioned  in the month of February 2017. Tourist Lodge, Serchhip was inaugurated on 9^th June 2016 and Foundation Stone laying ceremony was also held on the same day at Thenzawl for the project ‘Integrated Development of New Eco-Tourism Thenzawl, South Zote and Reiek’. Construction of Convention Centre at Reiek is currently underway. Construction of State Institute of Hotel Management at Bung Bangla, Aizawl has been completed. Anthurium Festival and Thalfavang Kut are also organised annually. 

13.       Through the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department, the Government has undertaken construction of Epidemiological Center at Khatla with a project cost of  Rs. 321.5 lakhs and construction of Integrated Veterinary & Animal Husbandry Training Institute at Lungpuizawl, Lunglei  at a cost of Rs. 213.685 lakhs and are expected to be completed by 2017. The newly installed animal feed plant at Ramrikawn is expected to be nearly sufficient for farmers in addition to production from the existing feed plant. Under RKVY, a Piglet Multiplication Farm was established at Thingsulthliah. Work in respect of Farmers Demonstration Center, Bench Terracing and Field Channel Terracing at Thenzawl Fodder Farm is also underway. A Liquid Nitrogen Plant was installed at Selesih Veterinary Farm Complex while a Calf Rearing Farm was established at Mampui, Lawngtlai. 

14.       Inspite of financial constraints and limited allocation of subsidised foodstuff, my Government has managed equitable distribution of foodstuff to the general public. Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department (FCS&CA) has undertaken computerisation of Targeted Public Distribution System Operation. Digitization of all District Offices, Supply Godowns, Depots and Ration Cards has been completed and a web portal has been created through which the public can access all the information and details regarding allocation of foodgrain to Fair Price Shops, Villages and Districts, and stock availability for transparency. A Toll Free number (1967) is active for lodging of complaints and grievances. These steps will eliminate the phenomenon of bogus Ration Cards and prevent foodgrain leakage from the entire supply chain. The National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013 has been implemented in Mizoram since March 2016. 

15.       My Government is fully aware of the scarcity of LPG cylinders in the State and has been making utmost efforts to solve it by tackling black-marketing, adulteration and hoarding of LPG cylinders. Plans have been made to upgrade Mualkhang Bottling Plant to 5 Mega Tonne capacity and all efforts are being made to increase supply into the State by holding discussions with various stakeholders. The FCS&CA Department is also in the final stages of constructing 17 new Godowns and will be commissioned shortly which will increase storage capacity of foodstuff by about  8000 Metric Tonnes. Enforcement Squad has been established to monitor the movements of PDS items and to check consignments of essential commodities to prevent adulteration and black marketing. 

16.       Mizoram is a highly urbanized State with various urban challenges. The Government has taken up urban development on various fronts, such as Urban Governance, Urban Infrastructure, Urban Planning, Urban Sanitation, Urban Transportation & Mobility, and Urban Poverty Alleviation. Various State Sector projects under the Annual Plans and for counterpart funding of Central Sector Schemes have also been taken up by the Government. We have entered a new urban era with the announcement of 5 Key Central Sector Missions, namely, Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM), Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Housing for All (Urban) and Smart Cities Mission. Our efforts in the field of urban sanitation are expected to enable our State to emerge as the 'Cleanest State in India' and to make our Cities, Towns and Villages the cleanest habitations by 2019. The Asian Development Bank (ADB)-assisted NERCCDIP has been instrumental in taking up critical city infrastructure for Aizawl City. This includes Water Supply, Sewerage and Solid Waste Management. With successful implementation, Aizawl City is expected to achieve 24x7 Water Supply. Proper treatment of sewerage for the eastern part of the City will also be covered which will further provide the much needed scientific management of municipal solid waste for Aizawl City besides adopting best practices in septage management which consists of introduction of Bio-Digester to 285 households and provision of Japanese Technology based Johkasou System to 630 users (140 Households). 

17.       The Aizawl Municipal Corporation (AMC) has been fulfilling its mandate in providing various municipal functions. Construction of buildings within Aizawl has been regulated by the AMC. Inspection of all building construction is being carried out. AMC also collects Property Tax, 80% of which is earmarked for essential public utilities. I am proud to state that Aizawl, Champhai and Lunglei towns have been declared Open Defacation Free (ODF).  Aizawl city has also been declared as a ‘Littering Free City’ and this will require cooperation from the public for it to be successful. 

18.       The Government also places much importance on rural development in which the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) is an important part. 1099 Water Harvesting Structures have been created while 76 have been renovated during 2016-2017. 14,183 Hectares of additional area has been brought under irrigation. 274 Self Help Groups have been formed providing livelihood to 1612 households. Under NRLM, 741 Self Help Groups have been formed since its inception. Two villages, namely, Khawlailung and Chhiahtlang have been identified as Model Villages under the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) with Haulawng also being identified in the 2^nd Phase. Other schemes and programmes being implemented by the Government include Indira Aawaz Yojana (AAY), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Gurantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission (SPMRM) and Border Area Development Programme (BADP). 

19.       Work is expected to start soon in respect of construction of Mini-Sports Complex in East Lungdar while DoNER Ministry of Govt. of India has approved construction of Multi-Shopping Complex at Saitual. 40% of work has been completed in respect of Cultivation of Aloe Vera in ChhanchhuahnaKhawpui under NEC. My Government has also been implementing a project called ‘Flood Control & Irrigation of Potential Agricultural Areas’ at Ngopa funded by NEC. DoNER Ministry has also conveyed administrative and financial approval for construction of a Mini-Sports Complex at Khawbung under NLCPR. 

20.       Good road connectivity is important to achieve the goal of development in the State. During 2016-2017, 16 road works have been completed with 73.69 Km of new roads and 211.11 Km of black-topping. In addition, 58 other road works are in progress under the Public Works Department (PWD) of the Government, the total length of which is 1326 Km. Maintenance of roads in the State is to receive our utmost attention. 3 bridges have also been completed during 2016-2017, while construction of 7 other bridges is in progress. During 2016-2017, 31 buildings have been constructed while construction of 85 buildings is in progress. I would also like to inform the House that there are several World Bank and Asian Development Bank projects currently underway. The Government is also engaged in maintenance and improvement of National Highways and construction of road under Kaladan Multi Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP). Construction of 10 Helipads has been taken up out of which 8 are completed. 

21.       The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) of the Government has identified 25 habitations to be covered during 2016 – 2017 under National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) out of which 11 have been covered so far. There are 10 water Supply Schemes under NLCPR and 7 NEC funded Schemes. Kelkang Water Supply Scheme has been commissioned recently. Improvement of Aizawl Water Supply Scheme (Part A) under AMRUT was started in August 2016. Storm Water Drainage of Aizawl Phase-I and setting up of Septage Management Unit is being carried out. 

22.       My Government is working to improve the power generation and supply scenario in Mizoram. The installed capacity of power generation as on March 2017 is 29.35 MW. Projects such as Tlawva HEP (5 MW), Kawlbem HEP (4.0 MW), Tuiriza and Tuiching HEP (0.20 MW) are expected to be completed during 2017-2018. Tuirial HEP (60 MW) constructed by NEEPCO is also expected to be completed by 2017-2018. Two Power projects, namely, Tuivai HEP (210 MW) and Tuirini HEP (24 MW) are expected to take off in the near future. Steps are being taken to improve the power transmission and distribution system and several Govt. of India programmes like Re- Structured Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme (R-APDRP), Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS), Power System Development Scheme (PSDS), Rural Electricity Distribution Backbone (REDB), Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY)  are being implemented. 

23.       Health & Family Welfare Department has been making untiring efforts to improve overall health infrastructure and services in the State of Mizoram. The State Referral Hospital at Falkawn is being upgraded to establish Mizoram Institute of Medical Education and Research (MIMER). Various Departments like Medicine, Gynaecology, Pediatric, Dental, Eye have been established in the Hospital. Govt. of India has conveyed administrative approval for upgradation of Mizoram State Cancer Institute (MSCI). Construction of a 200-bedded Hostel at Falkawn for Mizoram College of Nursing (MCON) is completed. Sterilization equipment has been procured and installed at 5 Hospitals. Establishment of Medical Library at Civil Hospital, Aizawl is being taken up. Procurement of Bio-Medical Waste Management System for District Hospitals at Mamit, Serchhip, Champhai and Lawngtlai is actively underway. 

24.       The Government is also implementing programmes like Malaria Control Programme, TB Control Programme, National Health Mission, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) , National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB), National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), Extended Programme of Immunization (EPI), to name a few. A 50-bedded integrated AYUSH Hospital at Thenzawl was inaugurated in October 2016, to be the first of its kind in North East India. AYUSH now has 20 OPDs functioning at different levels of the health tier system. Construction of AYUSH OPDs at Haulawng, Hnahthial, Thingsulthliah and Tlabung has been completed. We now have a well functioning State Drugs Testing Laboratory for Quality Control of AYUSH drugs at Zemabawk. 

25.       I am proud to announce that the Information & Communication Technology (I&CT) Department received the ‘Skoch Award’ on Smart Governance for the year 2016 and ‘Skoch Platinum Award’ for Inventory Management System (IMS), ‘e-District Project’ and ‘Content Management System’ (CMS). The I&CT Department is also implementing various Projects, namely, Project under Digital India, e-Office Implementation, Digital Classroom for Development of Science & Mathematics, Implementation of e-Procurement (GePNIC), Forensic Department Case Tracking System, SMS Notification for Water Distribution, Governor Online and CM Online. Projects under NEDP called 'Improvement of Internet Connectivity in the Capital City & District Headquarter' and 'Improvement in ease of doing business & improvement in public service delivery through ICT’ are expected to be completed by 2017 end. 

26.      My Government continues to accord priority on School Education. I am proud to announce that the Sainik School, Chhingchhip, which is the 27^th Sainik School, will commence from the next academic session. Grant-in-Aid of Rs. 1.85 crore to purchase school infrastructure has been granted to Sainik School and students will also be able to avail of scholarships. Advertisement for filling up of 111 High School Teacher posts has been floated by MPSC. A new evaluation system called ‘Integrated Evaluation Scheme for Secondary Stage’ was introduced from the 2016-2017 academic session. Decision has been made to introduce it in the Higher Secondary Stage from 2017-2018. ‘The Mizoram School Hostel Infrastructure, Facilities and General Care of Students (Management) Rules 2016’ was notified on 28^th March 2016 to have uniform control over existing  and newly opened hostels in Mizoram. The Mid-Day Meal Scheme benefitted 1,51,786 Primary and Upper-Primary School students during 2016-2017 and 94 Kitchen-cum-Stores are being constructed during the same period. As many as 68 educational institutions and office buildings were repaired/reconstructed with an amount of Rs. 91.157 lakhs during 2016-2017.  My Government has launched an integrated IT platform for all schools and teachers called ‘Total Information on Schools and Teachers’ (TIST). School data shall be imported from ‘Unified District Information System for Education’ (UDISE). 

27.       The Government continues to give high priority to Higher & Technical education. Construction of new Polytechnics under Skill Development Initiatives ‘Sub-Missions on Polytechnics’ Scheme at  Champhai and Kolasib have been completed while construction is ongoing at Lawngtlai, Mamit and Siaha. Construction of Science Laboratory at new campus of Govt. Zirtiri Residential Science College at Durtlang and construction of Auditorium, Seminar Hall and Classroom at Govt. Hrangbana College is underway. Construction has also started in a plot of land set aside for Mizoram Engineering College at Arsi Veng, Pukpui, Lunglei.  21 Govt. Colleges in the State have been approved for RUSA funding. Promotion of Hindi and upgradation of education facilities in relatively backward Autonomous District Councils are also on the agenda. 

28.       Mizoram is a very peaceful State and the Home Department has been striving to sustain this. A Peace dialogue was initiated by the Government with the HPC (D) wherein, three rounds of Peace Dialogues have been held. The final stage of dialogue is expected soon. During these talks, arms and ammunition snatched from the Police by HPC(D) cadres were returned. Mizoram Police has also detected and seized the following : 7 illegal arms, 513 live ammunition rounds, 6 Magazines, Rs. 3.30 lakhs worth of Fake India Currency Notes (FICN), 93 Kgs. of Pangolin Scales worth Rs. 20.35 lakhs, 150 Gold Biscuits worth Rs. 81.9 crores in the international market, 1.358 Kg. of Heroin worth Rs. 42.37 lakhs, 23.850 Kg. of Pseudo-Ephedrine worth Rs. 12.00 lakhs and 444 grams of Methamphetamines worth Rs. 2.22 lakhs.  A Zero Tolerance Drive was successfully conducted all over the State during Christmas and New Year. No-Vehicle Zone was again implemented during Christmas and New Year preparation days which facilitated free movement of pedestrians. Aizawl City Surveillance Project has been successfully launched and is operational and the Third Phase covering 43 important junctions of Aizawl City with 186 cameras have been installed.  A Fingerprint database is maintained at Forensic Science Laboratory. 

29.       In an effort to strengthen the Fire & Emergency Services in Mizoram, construction of Fire Station – cum – Staff Quarters at Mamit, Serchhip and Kolasib is on the brink of completion. 3 nos. of Advance Rescue Tender along with Crasions Rescue Tools were purchased and have been commissioned. Two new District Jails were opened and 48 Home Guard Volunteers, including 8 women, were recruited to meet manpower requirement of these District Jails. The Government has sanctioned and disbursed a sum of Rs. 49.89 lakhs to 116 World War-II veterans and widows during 2016-2017. A sum of Rs. 84,000/- has been disbursed to disbanded personnel of 2^nd Assam regiment during the same period. A sum of Rs. 21,600/- was disbursed as Stipend Scholarship to 7 dependants of ex-servicemen. Rs. 31,957/- has been paid to 3 ex-servicemen/widows as interest subsidy for SEMFEX-II loans taken by them from various banks. I am proud to state that 182 candidates from Mizoram have been recruited into the Armed Forces during 2016-2017, though I am sure that this number must grow in the coming years. 

30.       For improving infrastructure of the Judiciary, construction of new Aizawl District Court building at New Secretariat Complex is under way while ongoing construction of Judicial Quarters at Kolasib is expected to be completed soon. Fast Track Courts have been established at Kolasib and Siaha and Judges appointed.  Project for construction of High Court Building at New Secretariat Complex has been approved by DoNER Ministry. Establishment of Lokayukta is being actively pursued. 

31.       The Government is making efforts to increase collection of States Own Tax Revenue. Taxation Department is currently preparing for Goods & Services Tax (GST) which will be rolled out with effect from 1^st July 2017 in the entire country. This tax will have two components, namely, Central Goods & Services Tax (CGST) and State Goods & Services Tax (SGST). Inter-State transactions involving goods and services will be taxed under a Central Act to be called the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) Act. The CGST and the IGST will be administered by the Central Government while the SGST will be administered by the respective State Government. The Taxation Department, Government of Mizoram is a revenue earning Department in Mizoram and the revenue collection achieved by the Department for the current year of 2016 – 2017 upto January, 2017 is Rs 273.11 crore while collection was Rs. 218.73 crore for the same period last year. Construction of the Commissionerate of Taxes building at New Secretariat Complex is underway and work is expected to be completed in due course. Construction of Office of the Assistant Commissioner of Taxes, Kolasib Zone has also been completed. Collection of entertainment tax is expected to increase significantly after implementation of Digitization of Cable Television.  ‘The Mizoram Entry Tax Act and Rules 2015’ has also been enforced w.e.f. 1^st April 2016 and it is expected that additional revenue to the tune of Rs. 200.00 lakhs may be collected annually. 

32.       My Government continues to give priority to development of Autonomous District Councils. Rs. 6202.52 lakhs was released under Plan and Rs. 17228.90 lakhs under Non-Plan during 2016-2017 for achieving all-round development and improvement of administration in the Lai, Mara and Chakma Autonomous District Councils. Funding pattern of the 3 Autonomous District Councils has been changed from the financial year 2016-2017. They are given share from the Combined Fund of Non Plan Revenue Deficit Grants (NPRDG) and Share of Taxes (SoT) in 14^th instalment as per recommendation of Mizoram Finance Commission.  A State Level Committee and District Council Level Monitoring and Review Committees have been constituted for the three Autonomous District Councils to regularly monitor and review the implementation of projects. Efforts are also being undertaken by the concerned authorities for the improvement of the education sector and skill development in the Autonomous District Councils. 

33.       The Government has decided to take steps to run the Printing & Stationery Department on a Business Model. Initiative is also being taken for disposal of stationery items at a discounted rate of 50% which is expected to commence soon. Installation of the newly acquired SM-74 printing machine is underway. 

34.       The ‘New Economic Development Policy’ (NEDP), a comprehensive growth policy for Mizoram is being implemented in full swing. It aims at providing bold, practical and effective comprehensive strategies to push the economy to a high growth path. For its effective implementation, a Three-Tier Committee has been constituted, namely, the Core Committee headed by the Chief Minister, the Executive Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary and the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee under the Vice-Chairman, State Planning Board. Operational guidelines for the implementation have also been issued. Rs. 2.50 crores has been earmarked for 2016-2017 and another Rs. 27 crores is expected to be converged with NLUP. The following Schemes and Projects have already been launched for implementation during 2016-2017: 

• Agriculture & Allied Sector : (i) Onion production for enhancing the productivity of WRC areas; (ii) Establishment of rice mill; (iii)  Intensive Cultivation of off – season cabbage & Turmeric; (iv) Scheme for construction of market yards in city / towns; (v) market information system; (vi) construction of agriculture link roads; (vii) construction of horticulture link road.
• Commerce & Industry Sector: (i) construction of handloom export facilitation hub; (ii) construction of skills development training centre; (iii) entrepreneurship development scheme; (iv) initiatives for ease of doing business;
• Infrastructure Development: (i) composite infrastructure development in villages; (ii) composite urban infrastructure development in city/towns; (iii) improvement of water billing system and recovery of non revenue water in city/towns/villages; (iv) improvement of water supply – transmission and distribution,  and energy conservation;
• Services Sector: (i) improvement of health care facilities in all district hospitals; (ii) construction of additional class room for HSS/Model Schools; (iii) improvement of tourist facilitation – construction of home stay; (iv) improvement in ease of doing business and public services delivery through ICT;
• Operation & Maintenance: (i) Roads; (ii) Water Supply; (iii) Power & Electricity; (iv) Urban Development (Service level); (v) renovation and retrofitting of Vanapa Hall; (vi) improvement of internet connectivity; (vii) improvement of road connectivity between villages.
• Policy Reform Agenda: (i) Public financial management reform; (ii) Skills development policy; (iii) climate change adaptation and mitigation strategy; (iv) Public Administrative Reforms – a Committee has been established under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary, (v) Land Reforms – a Committee has been established under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary.
• Special Scheme / Projects: (i) Chief Minister’s Rural Housing Scheme; (ii) Aizawl City junction improvement – Pangi junction at Republic Veng, Bawngkawn junction, Millennium Centre junction, and Vaivakawn – Hunthar Veng junction; (iii) Development of New Secretariat Complex; (iv) Strengthening of Legal Metrology; (v) Strengthening of drugs and food safety; (vi) improvement of Referral Hospital at Falkawn; (vii) Renovation and extension of DLAO Office to accommodate LAD Directorate; (viii) Pilot project for early intervention against tobacco usage and drug abuse from upper primary school; (ix) development of indigenous technological innovation facility centre and enhanced protection of ownership; (x) repaint and maintenance of internal roads within district headquarters. 

35.       The Directorate of Economics & Statistics has been taking steps to improve various statistics of the State in collaboration with Central Government Ministries.  A BPL Baseline Survey was also conducted in order to have more reliable data. The new building for the Directorate of Science & Technology at New Secretariat Complex was inaugurated and construction of Innovation Hub at Mizoram Science Centre is almost completed.  Mizoram Science, Technology & Innovation Council (MISTIC) has successfully conducted Indigenous Grassroot Technology & Innovation (IGTI) Competition. Mizoram Remote Sensing Application Centre (MIRSAC) has successfully implemented the Mizoram Infrastructure & Monitoring Systems project. Other projects such as Digital 3D Terrain Mapping & Modelling of the 8 Districts, Hazard Risk & Vulnerability Analysis of the 8 Districts, National Land Use/Land Cover Mapping using Multi-Temporal Satellite data and spatially empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions, have also been carried out. I would like to take this opportunity to inform the House that Mizoram Bio-Resource Centre has been inaugurated on the 14^th February 2017. 

36.       The Administrative Training Institute (ATI) has been imparting training to key Government Officials for capacity building and improving efficiency in Governance. During the current several training programmes have been conducted for key Government employees as well as NGOs. A District Level Induction Training Programme meant for cutting edge level Government functionaries were also conducted in Kolasib, Serchhip and Siaha Districts. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between ATI and Indian International Institute of Democracy & Election Management (IIIDEM) which is an institute under the Election Commission of India. 

37.       My Government has accorded importance to the welfare of its employees and workers and has introduced a system wherein all Government employees are to open an account in a bank of their choice so as to streamline the system of payment of salaries. The Dearness Allowance of Government employees was enhanced thrice from 113% to 119% w.e.f.  1^st April 2016, 119% to 125% w.e.f 1^st September 2016  and from 125% to 132%  w.e.f 1^st January 2016. Benefits are also provided to pensioners in the form of revision of Dearness Relief. 

 38.      The State Government has implemented the recommendations of the 1^st Mizoram Finance Commission in which 15% of States Own Tax Revenue has been devolved to Local Bodies within the State w.e.f. May 2016. The Government is winding up 3 PSUs, namely, ZENICS, ZOHANCO and MAMCO. Privatisation of MIFCO and restructuring of ZIDCO is also underway. 

39.       Mizo Typical Village (Zokhua) at Falkawn was reconstructed with funds received from the 13^th Finance Commission and is now completed and open to the public. The Government is taking steps to construct ‘Tagore Cultural Complex’ at Beraw Tlang with a fund of Rs. 4.475 crores received from Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India. Funds have also been received for construction of State Central Library-Extension Building and District Library, Kolasib under National Mission on Libraries Scheme. Execution of these projects is underway. Construction of Cultural Heritage Centre at Lunglei at a cost of Rs. 150 lakhs is completed and open to the public. More than one lakh important documents pertaining to Mizoram State have been digitized by Mizoram State Archives for future reference and support. Geographical indication and patenting of Mizo Puan is being pursued to avoid desecration and misuse. Archaeological Excavation was taken up at Vangchhia, Champhai District, in collaboration with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) during 7^th January 2016 to 3^rd February 2016. Carbon samples retrieved at the site were tested at BETA Analytic Laboratory, Florida, USA. Carbon dating revealed that the site dates back to 1500 A.D. 

40.       The Information & Public Relations Department of My Government is rendering tireless efforts to perform its role as the main channel of information through which people in every part of the State are kept well informed and updated about our activities and achievements. The Department has embarked on a significant and ambitious project by starting a one-hour weekly Television programme called ‘Mizoram Hmasawnna Lamtluang’ to further highlight development projects being implemented by various Departments with special focus on NLUP. Through the Information & Public Relations Department, The Government has given a substantial amount as medical assistance to deserving journalists and ex-gratia to next of kin of deceased journalists. Mizoram Press Accreditation Rules has been approved and a new list of accredited journalists finalised during the year. I am pleased to state that a number of programmes were organised to promote the film industry and fine arts such as photography, paintings etc. 

41.       During 2016-2017 (till December 2016), the Land Revenue & Settlement Department has issued 524 House Passes, 2564 Land Settlement Certificates, 494 Land Lease Certificates and 13 LSCs for agricultural lands. A total of 2796 mutation cases and 125 dispute cases have been settled during the same period. 

42.       Under Skill Development initiatives of My Government, 815 persons have been trained under Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS), 1875 under Modular Employable Skill Course and 695 persons have been placed. Under Employment Service cum Career Guidance, 60 persons have enrolled in coaching for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Examinations and 150 for Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Examination. 1500 job-seekers have been registered for job assistance and 181 placed in employment. Under Labour Administration, 28 beneficiaries have received death benefit, 10 have received maternity benefit, 102 persons have received medical assistance, 1 received Incentive Cash Reward, 3 received Disability benefit, 2 received pension and 35 have been assisted for Workmen Compensation. The Minimum Rate of Wages has been revised w.e.f. 1^st April 2016. 

43.       Hon’ble Speaker and Hon’ble Members of this August House, I have attempted to present before you an overview of policies and programmes and a brief summary of the achievements of the Government. Time constraints do not permit these to be exhaustive but I assure all that My Government remains committed to bringing about prosperity and all-round development for the people of Mizoram and maintenance of peace and unity within the State. I hope that My Government will continue to receive the continued cooperation and support of the Hon’ble Members of the House and of the citizens of Mizoram. 

44.       Finally, I would like to remind this august gathering about our responsibility and commitment to the electorate, and make all efforts to observe financial propriety, transparency and accountability to the public. I convey my best wishes to you once again and wish you very fruitful deliberations.

KA LAWM E

JAI HIND

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