501/2025-2026
Lawngtlai, 9 February 2026: Fire Prevention Week 2026 was formally launched today at the DC Conference Hall, Lawngtlai, under the initiative of the Lawngtlai District Level Committee on Fire Prevention. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah, Adviser to the Chief Minister and MLA of Lawngtlai East, who attended as the Chief Guest. The programme was chaired by Lawngtlai Deputy Commissioner Shri Donny Lalruatsanga.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah emphasised the importance of observing Fire Prevention Week to ensure the safety of Lawngtlai District from forest fires. He stated that the Government is making continuous efforts to control forest fires in Mizoram, which cause widespread damage every year, and has even instituted incentives to encourage villages to actively participate in forest fire prevention.He noted that forest fires are more frequent during the dry season and stressed the need for extra caution, especially by farmers and jhum cultivators, urging them to strictly follow safe fire practices.
The MLA highlighted that forest fires cause severe damage to valuable natural resources such as trees, bamboo, wildlife, and water sources, and said it is now a crucial time for people to act responsibly to prevent further environmental degradation.
The Chief Guest urged Village Level Fire Prevention Committees to work with full dedication, particularly in enforcing guidelines and creating awareness among the public. He also called upon Government departments, NGOs, Village Councils, media persons, and Churches to actively contribute to forest fire prevention efforts.
Adviser to Chief Minister further stated that preventing forest fires cannot be left to others alone and that every individual has a responsibility. While Lawngtlai District has received awards in the past for forest fire prevention, he observed that there is still significant scope for improvement and encouraged all stakeholders to work collectively to secure the top position this year. Emphasising that unity is strength, he appealed to the people of Lawngtlai District to work together to prevent forest fires and protect forests for a greener and healthier environment.
Deputy Commissioner Shri Donny Lalruatsanga, in his address, welcomed the participants and reminded everyone that preventing forest fires is a shared responsibility. He appealed to the people of Lawngtlai District to remain vigilant and cautious to avoid forest fires. Shri K. Lalromawia, Member Secretary of the Lawngtlai District Level Committee on Fire Prevention and District Council Conservator of Forests, presented the district report and led the pledge-taking ceremony. Shri B. Lalrinmuanpuia, ACF, LADC, conducted a Sensitisation and Awareness Campaign through a PowerPoint presentation.
Fire Prevention Week has been observed annually since 2000, each year with a specific theme. The theme for 2026 is “Protect forests from fire – they shelter life and provide us clean water.” The week-long programme will be observed from 9 to 13 February 2026.
The programme was attended by officials from the Mizoram Government and LADC, representatives of Village Councils, NGOs, the Mizoram Journalists’ Association (MJA), and Church leaders. Shri M.S. Dawngliana, General Secretary of the Lawngtlai District Village Council Association, delivered the vote of thanks and formally concluded the programme.
