No.235/2021-2022

Aizawl, the 12th August 2021: To get acquainted with the important issues of the state, Governor Brig(Dr) B.D. Mishra (Retd) interacted with top-level state officials from Home Department, Health Department and Public Works Department at the Raj Bhavan, this afternoon.

The interactions started with a presentation from Shri Vanlalngaihsaka, Secretary and Shri David H.lalthangliana, OSD from Home Department on the border issues from its background, genesis and the current status along with the necessary steps taken for resolving the dispute. After the briefing from Home Department, Shri R.Lalramnghaka, Secretary, Health Department gave a presentation on the covid-19 pandemic situation at present along with the various strategies implemented to contain the pandemic. This was followed by a presentation on the progress of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project from Shri Lalruatkima, Chief Engineer (Highways), PWD.

On the border issue and for its eventual settlement of the dispute, Governor Brig (Dr) B.D. Mishra had underlined the need for maintenance calmness on both sides of the border. For this, he suggested routine engagements of the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police in the border districts (of Mizoram & Assam) as frequently as possible. This, he believed would be the most feasible exercise to set the tone for a conducive environment for settlement talk at the higher level. Most importantly, Governor Brig (Dr) B.D. Mishra appealed to both the states to avoid violent conflicts involving the state forces at any cost and that no bullets should ever be fired again in connection with this border dispute.

He expressed his confidence on the success of the all-out effort made by the Government of Mizoram on containing the pandemic. However, he advised the Health Department to keep on improving the stocks of Oxygen and covid-19 treatment medicines, ventilators, manpower, number of beds, dedicated Covid-19 hospitals, vaccinations and other covid-19 fighting equipment along with intensification of Covid19 appropriate behaviour campaign. Lastly, he spoke for a great length on the critical importance of finishing the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project as early as possible. This project, he explained would provide the gateway for the Northeast region for access to cheaper goods and commodities. Further, he had correctly illustrated the paramount importance of this project for Mizoram as it would serve as the only alternate lifeline other than the National Highway 306 (NH 306) which is rather frequently affected by economic blockades. On learning the reason for stalling of the project, the Governor also agreed to extend a helping hand if required.