98/2026-2027

Aizawl, the 21st May, 2026: The first "State Level Convention for Women Elected Representatives of Village Councils" was successfully conducted by the Rural Development & Administration Department (RD&AD), Government of Mizoram today at Vanapa Hall, Aizawl. Smt Lalrinpuii, Minister of Health & Family Welfare Department graced the landmark event as the Chief Guest, while Prof. Lalnilawma, Minister of RD&AD attended as the Guest of Honor.

Smt. Lalrinpuii, the Chief Guest acknowledged the historic trajectory of women leaders from Annie Besant to President Droupadi Murmu, noting the legacy of Mizoram's Ropuiliani. As Mizoram’s first female Cabinet Minister, she highlighted the impact of the 73rd and 74th Amendments and the 2023 Parliament bill providing 33% reservation for women. She exhorted the elected representatives to serve with integrity, lead with self-reliance, and act as pioneers in rectifying local governance deficiencies.

Prof. Lalnilawma, Minister of RD&AD applauded the societal advancement of Mizo women in collaborative governance. He urged the female leaders to optimize Village Council funds for grassroots development, emphasized the significance of creating an Own Source of Revenue (OSR), and assured ongoing departmental support.

Distinguished Guests Smt Baryl Vanneihsangi, MLA (Aizawl South III AC) and Smt Prova Chakma, MLA (West Tuipui AC) also delivered motivational short speeches to the delegates.

Dr. Lalngura Tlau, Director of Local Administration Department (LAD) delivered Keynote Address, detailing the implementation of The Mizoram Village Council Act, 2025. Formulated closely on the national Panchayati Raj framework, it integrates 22 out of 29 statutory subjects, with extensive guidelines on building village sustainability through OSR and local tax mobilization.

The Director presented the structural demographic seat layout, stating that under the 9 Districts Village Council framework, there are 2,414 total seats (1,799 general, 615 reserved). Within the Autonomous District Council (ADC) areas, the CADC has 516 total seats (428 general, 88 reserved); the LADC has 595 total seats (496 general, 99 reserved); and the MADC has 591 total seats (492 general, 99 reserved).

The convention, chaired by Shri R. Zarzosanga, Commissioner & Secretary of RD&AD was attended by 503 registered female leaders, representing a notable 55% turnout. The event commenced with an invocation prayer by Pastor PL Biakchhawna.

Following a screening of the “Women Friendly GP Video Clip Presentation” and musical interludes, the morning session closed with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Lalchawimawia, Joint Director & SNO RGSA, Directorate of LA, RD&AD.

The afternoon session commenced with a motivational speech on the topic "Roles and responsibilities of WERs in local economic development & social justice" by Smt Rita Lalnunmawii Pachuau Director of ATI, followed by an interactive “Experience Sharing & Discussion” forum facilitated by the State Panchayat Resource Centre (SPRC).

The convention concluded with closing remarks delivered by Shri S.T. Lalhmingmawia, Joint Director (P) of Local Administration.