1. On the occasion of Mizoram’s State Day, I extend my heartiest greetings and congratulations to the people of the state.

Thirty years back on this day, Mizoram attained a new milestone by becoming the 23rd state of the Indian Union, after the President gave his assent on August, 1986 and the state was inaugurated on 20th February, 1987 at the Assam Rifles ground in Aizawl.

Peace and statehood came very costly to the Mizo people, who had to go through 20 turbulent years of insurgency. That is why the hard-earned peace and status we enjoy today must be upheld at all cost; and although Mizoram was a late entrant on the road to development, the state has done fairly well in some spheres, while beating the rest of the states in a few others. For the relentless effort that the people and government of the state have put into ensuring that Mizoram steers itself into the right direction and vaults itself above others, I must once again congratulate each one of you.

2. In the last 30 years, the state has seen many changes, crossed many hurdles, and these have had diverse impacts on the state’s growth. The social fabric of the Mizos is unique and the communal bonding is indeed admirable. I think we can utilize this strength to build a more educated, resourceful, healthier and conscientious society, and if we succeed in doing so, there is nothing to stop us from racing far ahead and becoming a role model for the rest of the country.

As we look towards the future, it is undeniable that Mizoram is standing on the springboard of all-round progress. Therefore, we must be careful of our every decision, our every step, for it will decide whether the dream and true potential of the Mizo people are ever realized. The road to success is long and arduous but the fruit that it bears is always sweet.

My best wishes once again to the people on this momentous day.

Jai Hind.