Friends,
1. On this momentous occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of the Republic Day, I extend my warm greetings, felicitations and best wishes to all who have gathered here today, and to the people of Mizoram. The twenty-sixth January, 1950 was epochal in the long and chequered history of India. For, on that day the Constitution of India came into force. The Constitution of India is republican in character as the executive head of India is not any hereditary monarch . But a more significant aspect is that the Republic is democratic. Justice, liberty, equality and fraternity which are the essential characteristics of democracy are declared in the Preamble as the very objectives of the Constitution. The institutions set up under the Constitution seek to give effect to democracy which is to be sustained by adult franchise, fundamental rights and an independent judiciary. The Constitution of India is the product not of a political revolution but of the research and deliberations of a body of eminent representatives of the people and legal luminaries. Democracy in India has taken deep roots and withstood the test of time with fortitude and imagination. Today, let us remember with profound veneration our forefathers who had brought forth freedom to our Nation, and gave us the Constitution.
1. On this momentous occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of the Republic Day, I extend my warm greetings, felicitations and best wishes to all who have gathered here today, and to the people of Mizoram. The twenty-sixth January, 1950 was epochal in the long and chequered history of India. For, on that day the Constitution of India came into force. The Constitution of India is republican in character as the executive head of India is not any hereditary monarch . But a more significant aspect is that the Republic is democratic. Justice, liberty, equality and fraternity which are the essential characteristics of democracy are declared in the Preamble as the very objectives of the Constitution. The institutions set up under the Constitution seek to give effect to democracy which is to be sustained by adult franchise, fundamental rights and an independent judiciary. The Constitution of India is the product not of a political revolution but of the research and deliberations of a body of eminent representatives of the people and legal luminaries. Democracy in India has taken deep roots and withstood the test of time with fortitude and imagination. Today, let us remember with profound veneration our forefathers who had brought forth freedom to our Nation, and gave us the Constitution.
2. During the past six decades, our country has achieved significant developments in various fields, and the people have successfully demonstrated peaceful co-existence and impeccable unity in spite of myriad diversities. Fortunately now, with the advent of the knowledge age, India finds itself in a very advantageous position to bring societal transformation in education, healthcare, agriculture and governance. This transformation will lead to generation of employment, high productivity and national growth, empowerment of the weaker sections, networked and transparent society and rural prosperity. Our commitment towards becoming a Developed India by 2020 or even earlier is not a dream, but a mission which we are set to accomplish.
3. As you are aware, my Government has completed one year in office. During this period, the Government has taken up a slew of initiatives on various fronts and laid a strong edifice on which it can help build a stronger, surer and self- reliant Mizoram. Efforts have been initiated to finetune the administrative system to make it transparent, responsive, corruption-free and people friendly.
4. On this happy occasion, I seek to highlight briefly some of the major achievements and priorities of my Government for the benefit of the people.
5. My Government is aware that the concept of development is no more than a shadow without the right ambience in the form of peace. Hence, maintenance of law and order continues to be given priority. The incidence of crime during last year has greatly decreased. The law enforcing agencies, with the support of the NGOs and the general public, have been able to maintain peace and order in spite of some disruptive elements operating within and outside the State. In this regard, mention may be made that 64 Cadres belonging to Sinlung People’s Liberation Army( SPLA) with a large quantity of arms and ammunition surrendered before the 3rd Bn. Assam Rifles at Churachanpur last year. The Government of Mizoram has extended a befitting welcome in a Home Coming Ceremony organised by the Assam Rifles at Aizawl. Today, I cannot resist the temptation of expressing my gratitude that the celebrations of Christmas, 2009 and New Year, unlike the previous years, passed off in a calm and peaceful manner as the people, following the Government’s prohibitory order in this regard, did not resort to anything, such as fireworks,crackers etc. that can pollute the wholesome environment. In an attempt towards ushering in clean, efficient and purposive administration, deviation from the rule of law will not be permitted under any circumstances whatsoever. My Government has committed itself not to tolerate corruption in any form and at any level. To make clean and healthy society, prohibition law continues to be in force. My Government has been striving hard for attainment of self-sufficiency in foodgrains and vegetable crops.
6. My Government’s top priority remains amelioration of the lot of the poor in the villages and the urban areas. To this end, implementation of the New Land Use Policy( NLUP) will begin soon. I would like to appeal to all the beneficiaries to sincerely engage themselves in the trades they themselves have selected, keeping in mind the NLUP is meant for improvement of their socio-economic condition. For successful implementation of NLUP, any lapses on the part of the Government officials and the beneficiaries will be dealt with as per the provisions of law. Implementation of various Centrally Sponsored Schemes including NREGS, BADP, BRGF etc. under Rural Development Department has been undertaken earnestly. For the development of urban areas, Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns ( UIDSSM) have been implemented vigorously. Besides, under Swarna Jayanti Shahain Rojgar Yojana, (SJSRY) urban families living below poverty line are provided gainful employment opportunities, loan subsidy and other basic services. Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department has been greatly strengthened. The Composite Land Customs Station at Zokhawthar is intended to be jointly commissioned very shortly by Union Minister of Commerce, Govt. of India and Minister of Commerce, Republic of Myanmar. On Indo-Bangladesh sector, a Trade Fecilitation Centre is being constructed at Tlabung.
7. My Government continues to accord priority towards improvement of healthcare facilities. Upgradation of Civil Hospital, Aizawl is being undertaken. Better equipments and materials have been provided to all District Hospitals.Besides, implementation of various projects under National Rural Health Mission(NRHM) has been in good progress. Also, Malaria Control Programme as well as T.B. Control Programme are being effectively implemented throughout the State. Computerisation of Land Records is being undertaken in full swing. Under Social Welfare Department, Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, National Family Benefit Scheme and schemes for children and minorities are being implemented. Mizoram KVI Board has bagged the Best KVI Board Award, 2009. Various schemes under Local Administration Department have been implemented satisfactorily. Construction of Rajiv Gandhi Sports Stadium which will include a standard Football Playground and 8 lane 400 metres Running Track has been undertaken by M/S LLoyd Insulation, Kolkata, and the progress is quite satisfactory. All out efforts are put in to complete the earth work before the onset of this year’s monsoon. Smt Sonia Gandhi, Hon’ble Chairperson, UPA is expected to lay the foundation stone sometime in February, 2010. During last year, our sportsmen have participated in various national level competitions in different disciplines and won a number of Gold Medals. Promotion of Games and Sports and Music and Fine Arts will continue to be accorded priority. Equipped with Image Setter and Four Colour Offset Machine, the Printing & Stationery Department is now able to cater to all kinds of printing requisitions.The State Council of Educational Research and Training ( SCERT) has spared no efforts for the improvement of the quality of teacher education, development of instructional material and better class room dynamics.
8. My Government gives priority towards generation and distribution of power & electricity. Maicham-II SHP with the capacity of 3 MW was commissioned and inaugurated recently. Serlui ‘B’ SHP with the capacity of 12 MW is now at completion stage. Under Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana ( RGGVY) it is intended to electrify all the un-electrified villages. Construction of Kolodyne HEP Stage - II with the capacity of 460 MW will also be started in due course. Resumption of 60 MW Tuirial Hydel Project is being undertaken in right earnest. 210 MW Tuivai Hydel Project, funded 75% by the Central Government and 25% by the Asian Development Bank will be taken up shortly. My Government has left no stone unturned to ensure sufficient drinking water supply for all. I am happy to say that 124 Water Supply Projects covering 8 Districts have been started and the progress is quite satisfactory. Besides, Pumping Schemes covering 14 villages are expected to be completed during the current year. Financial assistance to World War-II veterans and also ex-gratia to next of kin of soldier died in action have been substantially increased. Steps have been taken to set up Family Courts at Aizawl and Lunglei. Also efforts are made to set up Gram Nyayalayas ( Village Courts) in phased manner. The rates of wages for MR Employees have been substantially increased. Construction of District Jails at Serchhip, Lawngtlai and Mamit is expected to be completed shortly.
Horticulture Department participated at the 5th International Flora Expo, 2009 held at Bangalore last year, and bagged 1st Prize in National Floral Art Competition.
9. Building a good road communication network throughout the length and breadth of Mizoram continues to be accorded high priority. With PMGSY, a rural road connectivity scheme, it is intended to connect all the villages having the population of more than 250 with all weather road. Under NEC, NABARD and World Bank Projects, construction of roads, bridges and buildings has been zealously undertaken in different parts of the State. Protection of environment and maintenance of ecological balance will continue to be accorded priority. My Government is committed to bring about industrialisation through development of small and medium industries. Sincere efforts are made to achieve hundred per cent literacy. Various measures are taken to improve our education system to make it more relevant in the context of fast changing global scenario. The Mizoram Regulation of Animal Movement Act, 2000 is being effectively enforced. It is my Government’s priority to ensure adequate food supply and other essential commodities at all times. Under Transport Department, construction of Directorate building will be started in a few months time. Survey work for construction of railway line from Bairabi to Sairang is in final stage. Construction of State Central Library building at New Secretariat Complex is almost completed. Priority is given towards making Mizoram a tourist destination.
Installation of Instrumental Landing System (ILS) at Lengpui Airport has been completed and will become operational in a short while.
10. In conclusion, I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all the NGOs, the Churches and the general public for having reposed faith and confidence in my Government, and also for extending to it utmost co-operation in all its endeavours for the development of Mizoram. I appreciate the sincerity and professional sagacity of the Government servants. I also thank the mediapersons and all the Central Government Departments operating in Mizoram. With your whole-hearted co-operation and the unwavering support of the Central Government, I am confident, my Government will be able to fully achieve the vision and goals it stands committed. Indeed, the people of Mizoram deserve change for development and progress for which they have given mandate to my Government. While keeping our own identity intact, and safeguarding our economic, social and cultural interests, we must look forward to integrating ourselves with the mainstream of national life. Let us, on this auspicious day, resolve to preserve and strengthen the unity and integrity of this great country, and to work for the missions that will make Mizoram a place where all can live with dignity, peace, prosperity and happiness.
Once again, I convey my best wishes to the people of Mizoram.
JAI HIND
3. As you are aware, my Government has completed one year in office. During this period, the Government has taken up a slew of initiatives on various fronts and laid a strong edifice on which it can help build a stronger, surer and self- reliant Mizoram. Efforts have been initiated to finetune the administrative system to make it transparent, responsive, corruption-free and people friendly.
4. On this happy occasion, I seek to highlight briefly some of the major achievements and priorities of my Government for the benefit of the people.
5. My Government is aware that the concept of development is no more than a shadow without the right ambience in the form of peace. Hence, maintenance of law and order continues to be given priority. The incidence of crime during last year has greatly decreased. The law enforcing agencies, with the support of the NGOs and the general public, have been able to maintain peace and order in spite of some disruptive elements operating within and outside the State. In this regard, mention may be made that 64 Cadres belonging to Sinlung People’s Liberation Army( SPLA) with a large quantity of arms and ammunition surrendered before the 3rd Bn. Assam Rifles at Churachanpur last year. The Government of Mizoram has extended a befitting welcome in a Home Coming Ceremony organised by the Assam Rifles at Aizawl. Today, I cannot resist the temptation of expressing my gratitude that the celebrations of Christmas, 2009 and New Year, unlike the previous years, passed off in a calm and peaceful manner as the people, following the Government’s prohibitory order in this regard, did not resort to anything, such as fireworks,crackers etc. that can pollute the wholesome environment. In an attempt towards ushering in clean, efficient and purposive administration, deviation from the rule of law will not be permitted under any circumstances whatsoever. My Government has committed itself not to tolerate corruption in any form and at any level. To make clean and healthy society, prohibition law continues to be in force. My Government has been striving hard for attainment of self-sufficiency in foodgrains and vegetable crops.
6. My Government’s top priority remains amelioration of the lot of the poor in the villages and the urban areas. To this end, implementation of the New Land Use Policy( NLUP) will begin soon. I would like to appeal to all the beneficiaries to sincerely engage themselves in the trades they themselves have selected, keeping in mind the NLUP is meant for improvement of their socio-economic condition. For successful implementation of NLUP, any lapses on the part of the Government officials and the beneficiaries will be dealt with as per the provisions of law. Implementation of various Centrally Sponsored Schemes including NREGS, BADP, BRGF etc. under Rural Development Department has been undertaken earnestly. For the development of urban areas, Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns ( UIDSSM) have been implemented vigorously. Besides, under Swarna Jayanti Shahain Rojgar Yojana, (SJSRY) urban families living below poverty line are provided gainful employment opportunities, loan subsidy and other basic services. Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department has been greatly strengthened. The Composite Land Customs Station at Zokhawthar is intended to be jointly commissioned very shortly by Union Minister of Commerce, Govt. of India and Minister of Commerce, Republic of Myanmar. On Indo-Bangladesh sector, a Trade Fecilitation Centre is being constructed at Tlabung.
7. My Government continues to accord priority towards improvement of healthcare facilities. Upgradation of Civil Hospital, Aizawl is being undertaken. Better equipments and materials have been provided to all District Hospitals.Besides, implementation of various projects under National Rural Health Mission(NRHM) has been in good progress. Also, Malaria Control Programme as well as T.B. Control Programme are being effectively implemented throughout the State. Computerisation of Land Records is being undertaken in full swing. Under Social Welfare Department, Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, National Family Benefit Scheme and schemes for children and minorities are being implemented. Mizoram KVI Board has bagged the Best KVI Board Award, 2009. Various schemes under Local Administration Department have been implemented satisfactorily. Construction of Rajiv Gandhi Sports Stadium which will include a standard Football Playground and 8 lane 400 metres Running Track has been undertaken by M/S LLoyd Insulation, Kolkata, and the progress is quite satisfactory. All out efforts are put in to complete the earth work before the onset of this year’s monsoon. Smt Sonia Gandhi, Hon’ble Chairperson, UPA is expected to lay the foundation stone sometime in February, 2010. During last year, our sportsmen have participated in various national level competitions in different disciplines and won a number of Gold Medals. Promotion of Games and Sports and Music and Fine Arts will continue to be accorded priority. Equipped with Image Setter and Four Colour Offset Machine, the Printing & Stationery Department is now able to cater to all kinds of printing requisitions.The State Council of Educational Research and Training ( SCERT) has spared no efforts for the improvement of the quality of teacher education, development of instructional material and better class room dynamics.
8. My Government gives priority towards generation and distribution of power & electricity. Maicham-II SHP with the capacity of 3 MW was commissioned and inaugurated recently. Serlui ‘B’ SHP with the capacity of 12 MW is now at completion stage. Under Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana ( RGGVY) it is intended to electrify all the un-electrified villages. Construction of Kolodyne HEP Stage - II with the capacity of 460 MW will also be started in due course. Resumption of 60 MW Tuirial Hydel Project is being undertaken in right earnest. 210 MW Tuivai Hydel Project, funded 75% by the Central Government and 25% by the Asian Development Bank will be taken up shortly. My Government has left no stone unturned to ensure sufficient drinking water supply for all. I am happy to say that 124 Water Supply Projects covering 8 Districts have been started and the progress is quite satisfactory. Besides, Pumping Schemes covering 14 villages are expected to be completed during the current year. Financial assistance to World War-II veterans and also ex-gratia to next of kin of soldier died in action have been substantially increased. Steps have been taken to set up Family Courts at Aizawl and Lunglei. Also efforts are made to set up Gram Nyayalayas ( Village Courts) in phased manner. The rates of wages for MR Employees have been substantially increased. Construction of District Jails at Serchhip, Lawngtlai and Mamit is expected to be completed shortly.
Horticulture Department participated at the 5th International Flora Expo, 2009 held at Bangalore last year, and bagged 1st Prize in National Floral Art Competition.
9. Building a good road communication network throughout the length and breadth of Mizoram continues to be accorded high priority. With PMGSY, a rural road connectivity scheme, it is intended to connect all the villages having the population of more than 250 with all weather road. Under NEC, NABARD and World Bank Projects, construction of roads, bridges and buildings has been zealously undertaken in different parts of the State. Protection of environment and maintenance of ecological balance will continue to be accorded priority. My Government is committed to bring about industrialisation through development of small and medium industries. Sincere efforts are made to achieve hundred per cent literacy. Various measures are taken to improve our education system to make it more relevant in the context of fast changing global scenario. The Mizoram Regulation of Animal Movement Act, 2000 is being effectively enforced. It is my Government’s priority to ensure adequate food supply and other essential commodities at all times. Under Transport Department, construction of Directorate building will be started in a few months time. Survey work for construction of railway line from Bairabi to Sairang is in final stage. Construction of State Central Library building at New Secretariat Complex is almost completed. Priority is given towards making Mizoram a tourist destination.
Installation of Instrumental Landing System (ILS) at Lengpui Airport has been completed and will become operational in a short while.
10. In conclusion, I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all the NGOs, the Churches and the general public for having reposed faith and confidence in my Government, and also for extending to it utmost co-operation in all its endeavours for the development of Mizoram. I appreciate the sincerity and professional sagacity of the Government servants. I also thank the mediapersons and all the Central Government Departments operating in Mizoram. With your whole-hearted co-operation and the unwavering support of the Central Government, I am confident, my Government will be able to fully achieve the vision and goals it stands committed. Indeed, the people of Mizoram deserve change for development and progress for which they have given mandate to my Government. While keeping our own identity intact, and safeguarding our economic, social and cultural interests, we must look forward to integrating ourselves with the mainstream of national life. Let us, on this auspicious day, resolve to preserve and strengthen the unity and integrity of this great country, and to work for the missions that will make Mizoram a place where all can live with dignity, peace, prosperity and happiness.
Once again, I convey my best wishes to the people of Mizoram.
JAI HIND
