147/2026-2027

Lunglei, 5 June 2026: Marking World Environment Day 2026, Lunglei today took a significant step towards sustainable waste management and environmental conservation with the inauguration of the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) Centre at Chanmari. Established under the Mizoram District Transformation Programme (MDTP) of the Mizoram Bana Kaih (Handholding) Scheme, the Centre is the first of its kind in the district and seeks to promote waste reduction, reuse and recycling for a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future.

The 3R Centre was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner, Lunglei, Pi Navneet Mann, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Following the inauguration, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the Centre and reviewed its facilities and operational arrangements.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest expressed her delight at the opening of the first-ever 3R Centre in Lunglei and southern Mizoram, noting that the initiative closely reflects the Mizo ethos of sharing and community support, embodied in the saying, "Sem sem dam dam, ei bil thi thi." She encouraged citizens to donate usable household items, clothing and other materials that are no longer needed but remain in good condition so that they may benefit those who need them. Emphasising that the success of the Centre would depend on active community participation, she called upon the residents of the district, in addition to MHIP, to extend their wholehearted support to the initiative. She also conveyed her gratitude to the Government of Mizoram and the Hon'ble Chief Minister for providing support under the MDTP component of the Bana Kaih Scheme, which made the establishment of the Centre possible. She expressed confidence that the Centre would emerge as a useful, successful and sustainable community resource for the people of southern Mizoram.

The programme was attended by officials, leaders of MHIP and YMA, members of the MJA, and Electoral Literacy Club members of Lunglei Government College. It was chaired by District Urban Development Officer, Pi Lalhruaitluangi, who delivered a brief presentation on the objectives of the 3R Centre and the initiatives being undertaken under MDTP. Participants also took a pledge affirming their commitment to waste segregation, sustainable waste management and active participation in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

A significant highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the District Urban Development Office (DUDO), Lunglei and the Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl (MHIP), Sub-Headquarters Lunglei. MHIP Sub-Headquarters Lunglei President Pi Lalliannguri also addressed the gathering. Under the collaboration, MHIP will facilitate the collection of reusable household items from community members for the Centre, from where they will be made available to those in need. The initiative is expected to reduce waste generation while ensuring that usable items continue to benefit other members of society.

As part of the programme, a Signature Campaign on Waste Segregation and Sustainable Waste Management was launched to promote responsible waste management practices among citizens, with the Chief Guest and participants signing their names in support of the initiative. A Voter Awareness Forum and Help Desk for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2026 was also organised to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining an accurate electoral roll and to encourage eligible voters to submit their Enumeration Forms during the prescribed period from 30 May to 28 June 2026. The Deputy Commissioner called upon all citizens to actively participate in the exercise.

The programme also showcased the role of Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the DAY-NULM scheme through the display of value-added products created by recycling and upcycling collected materials. The initiative is expected to generate livelihood opportunities while promoting circular economy practices.

The 3R Centre has been established through the joint efforts of MDTP, Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0 (SBM-U 2.0) and DAY-NULM. Located at Chanmari, opposite BCM Church, the Centre will remain open during office hours and will function as a collection, redistribution and recycling hub for reusable materials.

Under the mobilisation of MHIP Sub-Headquarters, Lunglei, seven MHIP branches in Lunglei town have already collected and donated reusable household items, including utensils, clothing, books and stationery, to the 3R Centre. Seven additional branches are scheduled to undertake similar collection drives by the end of this month, while the remaining eight branches will do so next month. Thereafter, the Centre will continue to be sustained through voluntary donations from individual citizens. Members of the public were encouraged to donate usable items for the benefit of others and to support the objectives of the 3R Centre.

Items collected at the Centre will be made available free of cost to those in need during office hours. The initiative seeks not only to reduce waste generation but also to promote a culture of sharing, reuse and mutual support within the community.