Dear friends and fellow citizens,
On the momentous occasion of the 77th Independence Day, I convey my warm greetings and felicitations to the people of Mizoram, to our dear countrymen and to all Indians across the world. Let us recall with gratitude and reverence, the selfless service and sacrifice of the great leaders of our Freedom Movement and the countless contribution of innumerable ordinary men and women, many of whom gave their lives, to end more than 200 years of colonial servitude. On this occasion, I also salute the valour and commitment of our Mizo warrior-patriots and pay homage to everyone who contributed to Free India.
Today, Mizoram, along with the rest of the nation, is on a steady path of progress. In the last four and half years, we faced many challenges, but with the unwavering support and strong cooperation from all sections of the society, we have been able to overcome most hurdles. Despite the crippling effects of the pandemic on all sectors, we have strived hard to make notable achievements to bring favourable changes in the lives of our people.
As we are all aware, it is indeed a matter of great pride and honour that our country is currently holding the Presidency of the prestigious G-20 and to make India’s Presidency a stellar success, various meetings and events are being organised in different cities during this year. Mizoram was privileged to host a G-20, B-20 (Business-20) Conference on 2nd March, 2023 themed - ‘India Initiatives in the North East - Conference on opportunities for multilateral business partnerships in Urban Planning, Infrastructure, Bamboo, Startups, Skill Development, Nursing and Paramedics’, where delegates from over 17 countries participated. We are hopeful that this Conference will help foster and create economic partnerships that will enhance Mizoram’s progress.
Meanwhile, the entire country has been deeply pained by the violent ethnic conflict which erupted in our neighbouring state of Manipur on 4th May, 2023. The series of unfortunate and deplorable incidents which have unfolded since then, have deeply aggrieved the entire Mizo society. Since the very start of the political and ethnic turmoil in our immediate neighbourhood, the State Government has kept a close watch and has taken a number of steps for the safety and security of Mizos who were stuck in Imphal, particularly students of various disciplines. The State Government also took up relief and rehabilitation measures immediately for the internally displaced from Manipur, who have sought shelter in our state.
The State Government spent more than Rs. 36 lakh to airlift and evacuate 264 residents of Mizoram, who were still residing in Imphal in the initial days of the violence. According to official records, about 12,509 internally displaced persons since then have arrived in Mizoram (as on 18.07.2023). Relief camps have been set up in Aizawl and some districts to house the displaced people. More than 2388.50 quintals of foodgrain has been distributed to those affected. It is heartening to witness how the civil society, NGOs, church bodies and individuals have contributed immensely both in cash and in kind. The State Government has allocated Rs. 5 crore for their relief and rehabilitation. Besides, we have requested the Central Government to sanction at least Rs. 10 crore for providing bare necessities to these displaced people from Manipur who are seeking refuge in Mizoram.
1. The general law and order situation in the state during the past year till today remains peaceful due to the pro-active role and constant monitoring by Mizoram Police. To ensure that international border areas are secure from anti-national elements, the Mizoram Police, in collaboration with border guarding forces like BSF and Assam Rifles, also conducts patrolling in these areas.
Fund amounting to Rs. 3.20 crore for construction of DIG (Nothern Range) Office at PHQ Complex, Khatla, Aizawl and Rs. 6.90 crore for provision of water supply at 3rd IR. Bn. Headquarters, Thingkah, Lawngtlai District were received from Govt. of India under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Expenditure (SASCE) Scheme. Fund amounting to Rs. 223.71 lakh for construction of Battalion Company Headquarters at Vairengte, Mizoram was also given under SEDP. Rs. 6.00 lakh was received for horizontal extension of Saitual Police Station for accommodation of SDPO Office, Saitual.
In its tireless combat, Mizoram Police seized huge quantities of illicit drugs and narcotic substances worth Rs. 2077.68 crore approximately (as on 14.7.2023) in international market, for which 1,900 criminal cases had been registered and 610 persons involved were arrested. Since its inception in the year 2020, the total amount of money recovered/put on hold by Cyber Crime PS is Rs. 36,75,268/- and out of 64 accused persons arrested in connection with cyber crime cases, 18 persons have been convicted. To mark the 37th Anniversary of Remna Ni, Mizoram Police donated 407 units of blood.
2. I am proud to say that the Lunglei Fire Station bagged the 'Subash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puruskar, 2023' awarded by the Ministry of Home Affairs for exemplary bravery in facing disaster and danger. For three days, the firemen at the Lunglei Fire Station had tirelessly battled the spreading forest fires, which threatened to engulf Lunglei town during 24-26 April, 2021. Mizoram Fire & Emergency Services officials received the award, carrying Rs. 51 lakh and Certificate, from Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 10th March, 2023.
3. The Mizoram Integrated Financial Management System (IFMIS) project, initiated by the Finance Department, has been implemented w.e.f. April, 2023 in 12 out of 13 Treasuries, covering more than 700 Drawing and Disbursing Officers. It is being implemented through the Fiscal Management Unit Cell and aims to establish a centralized system for handling financial information. The IFMIS replaces manual process by automating financial operations, such as budgeting, accounting, procurement and pay roll. It has enhanced transparency, efficiency, and accountability in financial management practices. The centralized system will enable better control, monitoring, and timely reporting, resulting in improved accuracy and effectiveness of financial data management in Mizoram.
At present, out of the 705 DDOs spread across the State, 658 DDOs managed to submit salary bill through IFMIS, which is considered a remarkable achievement. Out of 12 modules intended to be rolled out, 10 modules have been used after successfully completing the User Acceptance Test (UAT). Remaining Modules, ie. Debt Management Module and Pension Management Module are under development stage and are expected to be completed soon.
4. A total of Rs 67.95 crore has been recommended as State Matching Share (SMS) by Planning & Programme Implementation Department, Government of Mizoram for 36 nos. of CSS implemented by different departments of the State, during the year 2023-24 (as on 08.07.2023). The State Government has performed well in implementing the projects under NEC in comparison to all other states in the North-East.
For the financial year 2022-23, 11 new projects, amounting to Rs 62.81 crore, have been approved under NEC for Mizoram. There are a total of 17 ongoing projects under North-East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) being implemented by the State with a total project cost of Rs. 366.14 crore. Under the North East Road Sector Development Scheme (NERSDS), 4 ongoing projects have been sanctioned for Mizoram with a total approved outlay of Rs 189.92 crore.
A new Scheme, PM-DevINE was announced in the Union Budget 2022-23 with the aim of implementing rapid and holistic development projects. Under the Scheme, a major project ‘The Aizawl By-pass on the Western Side’ amounting to Rs. 500 crore and ‘Pilot Project for Construction of Bamboo Link Road at different locations in various districts in the State of Mizoram’ amounting to Rs. 100 crore were sanctioned.
5. Adequacy in Power & Electricity is another pre-requisite for progress. 20MW Grid Connected Solar Park at Vankal was commissioned on 16th February, 2023, for which relevant infrastructure such as approach road, 132kV Sub-Station, water supply, etc. was completed with an amount of Rs. 2107.15 lakh from State fund. Power generated via the Solar Park is bought back by the State at low cost, while surplus energy is sold out. Under NERPSIP Scheme, PGCIL also constructed 132kV Lungsen to Chawngte Line (30.966 km) and handed it over to Power & Electricity Department on 14.6.2023.
On-going Works include 33/11kV Sub-Station at Marpara, 132/33kV Sub-Station at Lawngtlai, 33/11kV Sub-Station at Chite, Augmentation of 132/33kV Sub-Station at Luangmual and 132/33kV Sub-Station at Sihhmui. To provide regular power supply to 16 agricultural lands in various districts, Rs. 11.64 crore from NABARD RIDF-XXVII is being utilised and 95% of the work has been completed. Under NABARD RIDF XXVIII, Rs. 26.00 crore has been received for electrification of 51 more agricultural lands, which is expected to be completed in two years’ time. 10MW Grid Connected Solar Power Plant at Thenzawl, amounting to Rs. 74.82 crore, is also estimated to be completed within 5 years’ time. The power generated here will be solely for the State’s consumption. Under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme initiated by the Ministry of Power, steps have been taken up to implement Pre-paid Smart Metering and various infrastructure works for reduction of losses within Aizawl City will be taken up soon.
6. The Public Health Engineering Department has recorded as many as 1,22,147 nos. of House Water Connections under Urban areas while 1,19,309 nos. of House Water Connections have also been provided in rural areas (as on 17.7.2023). Under Jal Jeevan Mission, 1,19,309 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) have been provided to villages as on 17.7.2023. There are 293 villages which are fully covered with FHTC till 12.7.2023. By March 2024, all villages are expected to be covered.
Under NESIDS, Alternate Gravity Water Supply Scheme of Aizawl, Augmentation of N. Vanlaiphai WSS and Greater Mamit WSS Phase II are in progress. In addition, 6 nos. of works are being taken up under SASCE. During 2022-2023, the Department collected a sum of Rs. 6742.651 lakh.
7. Under Public Works Department, major achievements include 307.869 km of Formation Cutting, 319.534 km of Black top (Flexible Pavement), 294.563 of Concrete Pavement, 11677 nos. of Culverts (CD Works), 18524.72 rm of Protection Work, 5 nos. of Bridges, 16 nos. of Non-residential Buildings and 6 nos. of Residential Buildings. 92.5% of Renovation works of the Terminal Building and 85% of Elevated road construction at Lengpui Airport have also been completed.
8. Various programmes under National Health Mission are being implemented smoothly across the State. Free Health Camps and Blood Donation Camps were organized to commemorate ‘Remna Ni, 2023’. Construction of General Nursing & Midwifery (GNM) School and Hostel have been completed at Siaha District and Construction of GNM Hostel at Champhai is in progress. Administrative Approval and Expenditure Sanction for Strengthening of Primary Health Facilities in Mizoram under SEDP amounting to Rs. 537.75 lakh was accorded and the work is also progressing smoothly.
Construction of Trauma Care Facilities (Trauma Centre) in Lunglei, Lawngtlai, Siaha, Kolasib and Serchhip have been completed. Meanwhile construction of 100-bedded IPD Block in Mamit at a project cost of Rs. 1793.00 lakh is expected to be completed shortly.
1st Batch of MBBS students has successfully passed out from the Zoram Medical College (ZMC). Out of 97 students, who appeared for the final MBBS examination, 95 students were successful and are now undergoing internship. Teaching and Non- Teaching staff were newly recruited and construction of New Academic Block has been completed. Construction of New OPD Block is also expected to be completed soon. Vertical Extension of Hospital Building, Diagnostic Block, Old OPD Block and Vertical extension of Boys and Girls Hostel under SEDP are going on.
9. The Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs looks after Public Distribution System in the State of Mizoram on ‘No profit, No loss’ basis. The Department caters to 2,85,016 households (as on January, 2023) under its Targeted Public Distribution System with an average monthly requirement of 77,000 qtls. of rice. The Department undertook sufficient advance stocking of rice at 79 Godowns for Monsoon stock. As of now, the total no. of active Godowns stands at 119, total no. of Fair Price Shops - 1258, total nos. of Ration Cards - 285016, total no. of beneficiaries - 1164005, total no. of LPG Distributors - 60 (including force/police) and total no. of Filling Stations is 68 across the state.
For financial viability of FPS retailers, the Department is exploring several exercises.All interested FPS dealers are authorized to sell 5 kg. LPG cylinders. In addition, selected FPS will be transformed into Business Correspondence places for areas where there are no banks. In the light of this initiative, 75 model FPS have been selected in each district. Inaugural programme of the first transformed model FPS was held on 1st March, 2023 at Hualngohmun VC House.
10. 2 (two) new Rural Development Blocks, i.e. Kawrtethawveng R. D. Block and Tlabung R. D. Block were inaugurated on 20th January, 2023 and 5th April, 2023 respectively under Rural Development Department. Three new District Rural Development Offices were also operationalised in the new Districts.
Under Mahatma Gandhi NREGA, Job Cards were issued to 2,15,649 households and an average of 27.97 days’ employment has been provided till date. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G), construction of 6,969 new houses has been completed and 13,543 houses are currently under construction. The Ministry of Rural Development has also allotted 9,462Awaas+ houses in 2022-23, which indicates the government’s commitment to provide affordable housing under the PMAY-G scheme. Under Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM), the Ministry has also approved Rs. 15 crore under Critical Gap Funding (CGF) for each of the existing Clusters at Aibawk, Thingsulthliah, East Lungdar and Khawzawl.Aibawk Cluster,Aizawl District ranked first in completion among the 300 Clusters under SPMRM across the country.
During 2022-23, MzSRLM mobilised 10,543 households into 1,417 Self Help Groups across the 26 Blocks. Rs. 2751.77 lakh as Community Fund was provided to SHGs and Village Organisations. Under Farm Livelihoods intervention, 10,318 new Mahila Kisans were identified from 61 new villages. In non-farm sector, 264 enterprises have been set up and supported under Start Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP). Bank loan amounting to Rs. 2808.35 lakh was sanctioned to 1053 SHGs.
The WDC-PMKSY 2.0 project in Mizoram covers an area of 49600 hectares with a project cost of Rs. 13888.00 lakh. The five year project will benefit 52 villages and till now, Rs. 3563.2 lakh as Central share and Rs. 316.05 lakh as State share have already been received. Under this project, a variety of measures including contour trenching, bunding and check dams were implemented, resulting in the creation of 141 water harvesting structures, 70 Amrit Sarovar (ponds) and 83 other structures. In terms of afforestation and horticulture plantation, an impressive number of 4,88,595 seedlings were planted benefiting 3,260 farmers.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, has approved the total allocation of Rs.13.956 crore for implementation of BADP.
11. Being the nodal department for Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) Scheme, the Local Administration Department has constructed 150 new Village Council Houses and repaired 93 Village Council Houses across the State till date. At the same time, construction of 23 new Village Council Houses is underway. 15 Village Council Houses have been co-located with Common Service Centres, through which various services are being delivered to citizens. As many as 243 computer sets have been distributed to Village Councils in order to facilitate such services to local people. It is also planned to distribute another 591 computer sets to remaining Village Councils so as to cover the entire 834 Village Councils in the State.
Village Councils are also being supported in terms of Economic Development Project under RGSA so as to help them ensure local economic development, such as, Areca Leaf Plate Production Project, Handloom Design Training cum Production Centre at Thenzawl and Rural Homestay & Agro Tourism Project at Tuipui Darzokai.
Grant amounting to Rs.1624.00 lakh for Excluded Area received from the Central Government has been utilised by Village Councils for local development related works. LAD also received Grant of Rs. 61.04 lakh as recommended by the State Finance Commission. This SFC Grant has been utilised by Village Councils for minor works and also for creating village assets based on the local needs.
12. The Agriculture Department has registered a total of 2,02,677 farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM- KISAN) scheme and 41,465 farmers have received 13th installment till March, 2023. Work done under Rashtriya Krishi Vikash Yojana (RKVY) during 2022-23 include construction of 12 nos. of Community Water Storage Structures in 11 districts as well as oil processing plant and maize milling plant constructed at Serchhip. Installation of 6 nos. of 5 Tonne Solar Cold Storage Systems and Tissue Culture Laboratory Building at Thingdawl Farm for housing potato seed production technology are currently underway.
Establishment of Biological Control Laboratory was taken up to ensure timely availability of the much needed bio-agents for the farmers and also to promote entrepreneurship for mass-multiplication of the bio-agents. Rs. 230.88 lakh (85%) has been utilised out of the total project cost of Rs. 273 lakh and the Laboratory is expected to be commissioned very soon. A sum of Rs. 700 lakh was received under RIDF-XXVI for infrastructural support to School ofAgricultural Sciences at Hnahthial. The construction work has been completed and the new buildings inaugurated on 17th July, 2023.
Under SEDP Family Oriented Project, 2nd installment @ Rs. 25,000/- per beneficiary was given to 9,161 beneficiaries altogether in all 11 districts. Also, 31 nos. of Maize Grinder Machines were given to farmers for grinding their harvested maize for preparation of animal feed.
13. For the financial year 2023-2024, the Govt. of India has allocated Rs. 4,444.44 lakh for implementation of ‘Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture’ in the state. In this current season of planting, the Department has covered more than 600 farmers for cultivation of Papaya, 200 farmers for Dragon fruit cultivation and another 200 farmers for Mandarin Orange cultivation. These farmers are provided with healthy planting materials raised in the Horticulture Centres and Centres of Excellence under the Department. With the capacity to produce quality planting materials, the Department is set to cover more farmers under perennial fruit crop cultivation in the coming season.
Horticulture Department in convergence with IFAD-FOCUS, distributed 663 qtls. of G. I. wire to 221 Passion fruit beneficiaries from Chawngtlai village and Khawhai village. Solar based dryers which harness solar energy to dry fruits, vegetables and crops for preservation has been successfully installed in all districts. Ripening chambers have been successfully established at Aizawl (Sesawng, Thingsul, Tlungvel), Serchhip (Khumtung, Baktawng) and Lunglei (Mausen) Districts.
‘Horticulture Fair, 2023’ was organised during 30th May - 2nd June, 2023 at Aijal Club Park to provide a suitable platform for farmers to exhibit and showcase their produces at reasonable and profitable prices. 177 stalls were set up and a large number of farmers, Self Help Groups, private entrepreneurs and firms participated in the event. ‘Best Horticulture Farmer’ Award was also distributed to the most promising farmers from each District.
14. Under the first phase of Family Orientated SEDP, the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department had selected 25,399 beneficiaries, who have been handed over 1st and 2nd instalments of Rs. 50,000 each, amounting to Rs. 126.995 crore. Most of the beneficiaries selected piggery, poultry, goatery, mithun and cattle farming, which has significantly improved their livelihood.
African Swine Fever (ASF) pandemic has occurred two times in the State and unfortunately, we are now on the brink of a third wave of the pandemic. In 2021, Rs. 1,169.94 lakh culling compensation for 12,568 pigs was received from Government of India and distributed to 2,488 affected families. Culling compensation of Rs. 526.633 lakh for 11,686 pigs culled has already been submitted to Government of India for the second wave ofASF pandemic of 2022.
Mobile Veterinary Unit under NationalAnimal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) was inaugurated on 1st February, 2023, which will provide veterinary services at farmers’ doorstep while responding to calls received from toll free Call Centre number ‘1962’. This scheme is being implemented in 26 R.D. Blocks in the State.
15. Various Sports infrastructure projects were satisfactorily completed and ongoing works such as construction of Sports Hostel and laying of artificial turf of football ground are being carried out in various locations alongwith renovation of existing sports stadia. Construction of State Training Centre for Adventure Sports at Vaipuanpho is going on with a project cost of Rs. 140 lakh funded by Ministry of MinorityAffairs. This is expected to be the best training centre for adventure sports in North-East India.
On April 18, 2023, Mizoram Sports Incentive Cash Award 2021-22 was distributed to 160 athletes from multiple sports disciplines. NSS Mizoram has planted 2,657 trees and donated 6,082 units of bloods at various blood banks so far and was awarded 1st position in Blood Donation (overall) by AVBD. Moreover, it has constructed around 60 public assets like urinals, waiting sheds and water sheds at various places in Mizoram and conducted more than 270 Cleanliness Drives at public places across the state.
The Department of Higher & Technical Education has a remarkable achievement in terms of assessment and accreditation of Government Colleges and Higher Institutions under the National Assessment & Accreditation Council (NAAC). With the current status of 83% accredited Government Colleges and Higher Institutions, the State of Mizoram has secured first position (in percentage) among Higher Education Institutions accredited across India. Govt. J. Thankima College, recently awarded with A+ Grade NAAC Accreditation, stands at the highest ranking amongst all the accredited State Government Colleges. The recent achievement of various Government Colleges can be attributed to the improvement in educational infrastructure facilities secured under the RUSA grants.
16. The Department of Higher & Technical Education is intensifying efforts for effective implementation of the National Education Policy of India 2020. Framework for Four Year Graduate Programme (FYUGP) has been implemented from the current academic session 2023-2024, commencing from July, 2023. In order to alleviate inadequacy of teaching staff, as many as 68 (sixty eight) Contract Assistant Professors were regularised. Further, Incentive Cash Award to Mizo candidates, who qualified for the All India Civil Service Examination conducted by UPSC, has been disbursed to 3 (three) Mizo candidates successful in the UPSC Preliminary Examination.
17. The Department of School Education organised ‘Children Science Congress’ in collaboration with Science Teachers’ Association Mizoram (STAM) in all Districts. Sensitization programme for Science Teachers was also organised. District Level Science and Maths Quiz Competition was organised for Elementary and Secondary students. To continue with the hybrid of learning, tablets were distributed to 550 primary school teachers to help them in uploading and monitoring progress of each student. To provide hygiene related basic facilities, Sanitary Pad Vending Machines & Incinerators were given to 946 Govt. Schools and First Aid Kits were distributed to all Govt. schools.
The Mizoram Board of School Education (MBSE) has successfully published Mathematics & Science Textbooks (Mizo version) for classes IX & X for the current academic session. This is considered to be the first of its kind for school textbooks in India. The Board has also taken initiatives to make Braille and large print textbooks available for blind and low vision students in Mizoram. An MoU was signed between Samagra Shiksha and Cricket Association of Mizoram for five years under which more than 500 government school students will be learning cricket.
The State Council of Educational Research and Training has come out with a supplementary reader in English for Class 6, 7 & 8 from the current academic session to help students gain knowledge about Mizoram and Mizo tradition and values. It also launched its own PM e-Vidya TV Channels for Elementary Schools called ‘Zirna Kailawn’ (Learning Ladder) and for Secondary Schools called ‘Zirna Lamtluang’ (Learning Pathway) on 29th July, 2023 to celebrate the 3rd anniversary of NEP 2020. The Capacity Building of Health and Wellness Ambassadors Programme will be implemented inAizawl this year, which will target 427 Middle Schools, High Schools and Higher Secondary Schools covering 854 Teachers and 427 School Heads.
18. The Information & Communications Technology Department has successfully completed the ‘Establishment of Smart Classroom in Minority Concentration Areas of Mizoram’ project under PMJVK in 20 minority concentrated schools. Under Bharat Net Phase-II, 500 wireless routers were distributed to enhance accessibility to internet services. 4G saturation project was taken up in 66 uncovered villages and aspirational district, where 60 mobile towers will be installed during 2023. The State Government has provided support and co-ordination for facilitating 5G network and presently, JIO and Airtel have started roll-out in Aizawl.
To provide reliable telecommunication and internet connectivity across the state, proposal for the Improvement of Backbone Connectivity of Districts and Blocks in Mizoram was submitted and approved at an estimated cost of Rs. 50 crore. This project will have significant improvement in fiberisation of telecom towers and in bringing 5G to the state. Mizoram e-services portal and upgradation of Mizoram State Data Center & Cloud enablement project was also approved amounting to Rs. 22.50 crore by the Ministry of Finance.
Online Inner Line Pass (ILP) Portal Phase-I has been completed, which will also allow online application for Temporary Stay and ILP Exemption. Myanmar Refugee Registration System (MRRS) online portal has also been developed, through which respective Deputy Commissioner’s Offices in all districts can issue Identity Card and manage refugee records digitally.
19. The Environment, Forests & Climate Change Department has been implementing various Centrally Sponsored Schemes like Green India Mission (GIM), National Afforestation Programme (NAP) and many others, which primarily aims to protect, restore and sustain the forest cover for the benefit of the people and future generations. The Department has brought 4 districts namely, Serchhip, Kolasib, Champhai and Aizawl Districts and also took a new initiative to bring the remaining 7 districts of the State under Green India Mission, focussing more on increasing green cover and agro-forestry, for the benefit of the local people by way of employment generation and augmentation of income. As of now, 21 (twenty one) wood-based industries are operational in the State, which are providing employment to the local people.
The Department is working round the clock in order to stop illegal wildlife trafficking which has regularly been detected across the Indo-Myanmar and inter-state borders. Besides this, the Department has obtained approval from Government of India for ‘Satellite Animal Rescue Centre of Aizawl Zoo’ at Champhai, which is in the process of establishment. It will serve as a centre for rescue, treatment, housing and rehabilitation of animals in distress and rescued wildlife.
Involving local people, the EF&CC department is making all efforts to manage and control forest fires, which have come down to a large extent. In order to strengthen the infrastructure further and to have intensified monitoring and control, the department has submitted proposal for Champhai & Lawngtlai Districts at a project cost of Rs. 20 crore approx. each for five years to Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change, Govt. of India.
20. During 2022-2023, the Land Revenue & Settlement Department issued 4286 Residential LSCs, 1772 House Passes, 178 Agri Land Periodic Patta, 290 nos. of DPL. As many as 9180 nos. of land holdings were mutated; 788 nos. of land holdings were altered and 361 cases of land disputes were settled. The revised Chekbawk House Site Plan now consists of 1308 plots, out of which 15 plots are reserved for public places like graveyard, community hall, school, etc. All roads between the plots are constructed within the plan. Maumual House Site Plan is also being revised. MURA members were alloted house sites in Tuivamit House Site Plan.
Mizoram has become the first state in North-East India to distribute Property Cards under SVAMITVA, a Central Sector Scheme which aims to provide clear ownership of property in rural areas. Under this scheme, 420 Property Cards were distributed to land holders in rural areas on 24th April, 2023. Meanwhile, the implementation of Digital India Land Record Modernisation Programme is in full swing.
The land area encompassing Bawngkawn Brigade Area has been declared as ‘reserved’ for special purposes and for public use. The Government of Mizoram decided that all invalid passes shall be cancelled and the persons who occupied land without valid passes shall be issued a valid pass on payment of the required fees. Survey of land for the construction of Aizawl Bypass Road is being conducted in collaboration with the District Administration. Survey of Saitual town is being conducted and Khawzawl, Biate and Sialhawk to be started soon under SEDP.
21. The Government of Mizoram has notified Irrigation & Water Resources Department as State Water Informatic Centre, which will empower the state with digital validated, online water resources information system required for better planning and management of its water resources. There are 45 on-going Minor Irrigation Projects under ‘PMKSY-Har Khet ko Pani’ at a cost of Rs. 5,097.78 lakh and will cover Command Area of 2,065 hectares with total beneficiaries of 1,222 farmers. Six (6 ) new Minor Irrigation Projects at a total estimated amount of Rs. 1,046.59 lakh was included under NABARD RIDF-XXVII during FY 2022-23. These projects will cover Culturable Command Area of 262 hectares. Development & Watershed Management Programme Project for 33 Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) Projects at a total estimated cost of Rs. 1000.00 lakh was also sanctioned under NABARD RIDF-XXVIII.
13 (thirteen) Groundwater Irrigation Projects covering 6 districts, with a total estimated cost of Rs.1,604.89 lakh, including provision for construction of tube-well and installation of Solar and Electric Pumps are being implemented under PMKSY-HKKP (Groundwater Irrigation). So far, 209 Tubewells have been constructed with installation of 127 nos. of solar pumps and 6 nos. of electric pumps. Chawmzau Groundwater Irrigation Project, Serchhip was implemented under RIDF-XXVI at a total estimated cost of Rs. 227.15 lakh.
22. Projects worth Rs. 2,168.12 lakh has been approved by the Government of India under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to boost up various schemes under Fisheries Department. Two (2) new fish hatcheries will be established at Mamit and Serchhip Districts. To increase the fish production of the state, a total of 100 hectares of new ponds will be established for selected beneficiaries in all districts. For promoting raising of indigenous fish, 1 (one) unit of Raceway culture system in Hnahthial district and 1 (one) unit of water and fisheries based Recreational Site in Mamit district has been taken up. To strengthen post-harvest infrastructure 2 nos. of new Ice plant of 10 tonne capacity will be established, 1 (one) each at Aizawl and Kolasib.
During 2022-2023, the State’s fish production is estimated at 5029.85 MT, indicating a post pandemic recovery increase trend of 6 % from the previous year and continues to grow. The estimated total fish seed production from both Private and the Government Sectors during 2021-2022 was 150 lakh. A Disease Diagnostic and Quality Testing Laboratory will be established to monitor and control disease outbreak and for water quality testing. For ensuring the availability of fresh fish, Live Fish Vending Centre will be established at ITI Veng, Aizawl where live fish will be sold to the public.
23. Under the SEDP, the Commerce & Industries Department disbursed Rs. 260 lakh to 438 selected weaver families. In addition, Rs. 50,000/- was given to 13,266 families each under the SEDP Family Oriented Programme. Under PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME), 1092 SHG members were given assistance to the tune of Rs. 30.79 crore. Under PM Gatishakti, Rs. 20.96 crore was received for upgradation of Industrial Growth Centre (IGC), Luangmual and Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) at Lengte.
Under SASCE Scheme, Rs. 15 crore toward upgradation of Zokhawthar Land Customs Station is being utilised. Construction of Aizawl City Centre at New Market with estimated amount of Rs.
42.83 crore under Smart City Project has started. New Market (Foreign Lane) in the Aizawl City Centre Annexe costing Rs. 36.41 crore is also underway. During 2022-2023, total revenue of Rs. 1,13,77,410/- was garnered by the Commerce Wing of Commerce & Industries Department.
24. The Labour, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Department is intensifying efforts for successful implementation of various welfare schemes to secure decent means of livelihood, particularly to unorganized workers within Mizoram. The Department has enforced many Labour Laws to administer, amongst other things, the social security for registered labourers and workers. Online Employment Exchange Portal (Empex Mizoram) was launched on 31st January, 2023 and the mobile application on 7th July, 2023. The portal presently has 2,03,307 users.
Various benefits amounting to Rs. 14,39,52,000/- have been disbursed under the Mizoram Building & Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board (MBOCWWB) during the last financial year. Multipurpose Centre, built at MINECO under MBOCWWB at a cost of Rs. 15.00 crore, was completed and inaugurated on 7th July, 2023.
25. Under Urban Development & Poverty Alleviation Department, construction of Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) under Aizawl Smart City Ltd. worth Rs. 119.2 crore was inaugurated, while foundation stone for construction of Laldenga Cultural Centre worth Rs. 193 crore was laid by Hon’ble Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah on 1st April, 2023. A number of projects toward improvement and addition of various urban infrastructures and urban services are currently underway for making Aizawl a smart city. Besides numerous on-going projects, the Department has completed construction of Multi Utility Centre at Thakthing Veng, Drainage System at Zotlang, Artificial Turf and Pavillion at Khawzawl.
The 4th floor of Lunglei Convention Centre has been renovated for accommodating Lunglei Municipal Council and its functionaries.
Under Family Oriented SEDP during 2022-23, 4 (four) trades were approved by the Government and Rs. 50,000/- each was distributed to 828 beneficiaries in two installments.
26. Being one of the major earning departments, the Transport Department collected revenue amounting to Rs. 4903.26 lakh during financial year 2022-23. Construction of Commercial Vehicle Terminals at Tlabung, Serchhip and Vairengte amounting to Rs. 690 lakhs was completed and these were inaugurated on 9th Dec 2022, 12th April 2023 and 13th April 2023 respectively. Construction of Multi Level Parking & Multipurpose Hall of Govt. Mizo High School, Aizawl was inaugurated on 17th May, 2023 and handed over to School Education Department.
27. There has been steady progress in the development of Judicial infrastructure. The new High Court Building at MINECO is ready to be inaugurated within a few months. Construction of District Court building at Vengsang Champhai is underway with an estimated cost of Rs. 49 crore for the first phase. Additionally, construction of Court Building at Kolasib is also underway while construction of Residential Quarter for Judge, Fast Track Court, Kolasib has been completed.
From January to June this year, the State Legal Services Authority has provided Free Legal Aid to 315 persons. During this period, 5036 cases were registered, out of which 1814 cases were settled. LokAdalats have also been conducted regularly. Total number of Registrar of Marriages (till June, 2023) are 735 (Seven Hundred Thirty Five), among which 26 are newly appointed.
28. The Social Welfare & Tribal Affairs Department serves as nodal department for programmes implemented under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) formulated by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. 1800 youths, including parents, 725 college teaching faculty, YMA leaders, NGOs running de-addiction cum rehabilitation centres, etc. were provided awareness and training on drug abuse.
Under PMAAGY (Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub- Scheme), the Ministry of Tribal Affairs approved 344 villages for upliftment projects in 8 sectors such as Anganwadi Centres, Drinking Water facilities, Electricity, etc. during 2022 - 2023. The Ministry also approved 107 projects for various sectors, i.e. education, health, agriculture, other income generating schemes and research. Under Accessible India Campaign, 10 (ten) Government offices and residential buildings have been retrofitted with wheelchair ramps, toilets, elevators, tactile floors, etc. for persons with disabilities.
29. Following the launch of ‘Mission Shakti’ in the State on 12th June, 2023, the Women & Child Development Department has established fully functional ‘Hub for Empowerment of Women’ (HEW) and posted trained Protection Officers to educate and protect women from domestic violence.
Currently, there are 27(twenty seven) ICDS projects in Mizoram,covering 2244 Anganwadi Centres, having 1,51,457 ICDS beneficiaries (till July, 2023). With funds of Rs.151.70 lakh under Tribal Welfare, 29 Anganwadi Centres were constructed. Also, 35 new Anganwadi Centres were constructed under PMJVK and 657 Anganwadi Centres have also been repaired with funds received from Poshan Abhiyaan Awards.
4 (Four) Homes are being run by the State Govt. to cater to children with special needs. ‘Child Friendly Corner’(CFC) has been set up in 29 Police Stations/Out-posts in collaboration with the Police Department. CFCs have also been set up in 5 Special Courts and one-way mirrors placed in 3 Special Courts in collaboration with Law & Judicial Department for victims under POCSO Act. ‘Happy/ Sad Box’ has been installed in schools and child care institutions, where children can drop their happiness or sadness in writing. These boxes are opened every month and if suspicious cases are identified, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) does the necessary follow-up.
30. Under SEDP, the Science and Technology Department has taken initiatives for sustainable utilisation of natural resources and a Biotechnology Centre has already been established. The project has been further strengthened with NEC fund for ‘Infrastructure Development of Biotechnology Cell in Mizoram’.
The Biotechnology Centre in partnership with CSIR-IHBT (Institute of Himalayan Bio-resource Technology), Palampur, established the Mushroom Demonstration Centre in the IFT building, MINECO, where the widely-cultivated ‘Oyster mushroom’ and the very popular East Asian species ‘Shiitake mushroom’ are being cultivated and experimented for future large scale production. Similarly, in collaboration with CSIR-IHBT, Palampur and College of Horticulture, Thenzawl, scientific support to the local farmers to grow ‘Low chilling varieties of apple’ was introduced in different parts of Mizoram.
In collaboration with the Institute of Bio-resource & Sustainable Development (IBSD), Mizoram University and Health & Family Welfare Department, a scientific study on selected local fermented food items in Mizo cuisine has been taken up. Interestingly, steps are being taken to promote our traditional food in the national and international market, and industrial scale production of traditional food is expected to be formulated soon.
31. Being the State Nodal Agency for the administration of NDPS Act, 1985, the Excise & Narcotics Department plays a defining role in combating illicit trafficking of drugs within the state working with counterpart Departments like Police, Social Welfare, DRI, Para Military Forces such as Assam Rifles, Border Security Force; NGOs like YMA, YLA , MTP, etc. Drugs seized and destroyed by the department in the last financial year was worth more than Rs. 10 crore. Mass Drug Awareness Campaign has also been initiated from fund received from ‘Core-Committee on Ruihhlo Do’.
Under the Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Act, 2019, as many as 4614 persons had been arrested in contravention of the Act and 3015 cases were registered since 2019. From 9th September, 2022, the Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Rules, 2022 has been implemented under which manufacture, possession, sale, transportation and consumption of grape wine manufactured from fresh grape grown in Mizoram has been regulated.
32. During 2022-23, the State Government approved establishment of Geology & Mining Zonal Office at Lunglei, to look after 4 (four) Districts, viz. Lunglei, Hnahthial, Lawngtlai and Siaha Districts. This also entailed creation of 13 (thirteen) new posts in the Directorate of Geology & Mining and transfer of 2 (two) existing posts to Zonal Office.
The total revenue generated during 2022-2023 by Geology & Mining accrued to Rs. 12,20,23,289/- surpassing the target. They also conducted various Geotechnical investigation of monsoon disasters at 55 different locations and analysis of 499 samples at the Geotechnical laboratory was carried out.
33. Sericulture Department in collaboration with Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati and Mizoram University plan to work together for development of Eri pupae for consumption of the Armed forces and their trained dogs.
Under SEDP, assistance of Rs. 50,000/- per beneficiary was given to 300 families last year. Production of Cocoon (Reeling Cocoon) during 2022-2023 was 698.982 Metric Tonne and Raw Silk Production was 55.237 Metric Tonne. 5,262 acres of land is being utilized for the plantation of Sericulture food plants.
34. Under the Art & Culture Department, the task of Digitization of Documents is continuously undertaken by Mizoram State Archives for future reference and record. Cultural Meets and Border Area Programmes have been successfully organized to promote Mizo Culture at various places. Chapchar Kut, the biggest festival of the Mizos, is celebrated every year and this year, the delegates of G-20
(B-20) Summit also particpated in this cultural exposition on 3rd March, 2023 at Lammual, Aizawl.
35. Cooperative Sector plays a vital role in the socio-economic development of the people in Mizoram. Currently, there are as many as 1,306 registered Cooperative Societies. The Cooperative Sector renders effective role in price control throughout the State. The financial savings of the localities, where there exists a Multipurpose Cooperative Society, is estimated to be more than Rs. 3 crore per year. Integrated Cooperative Development Project (ICDP), for which Rs. 523.74 lakh has already been approved by National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), is being implemented in Mamit District.
36. Parliamentary Affairs Department is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring smooth transaction of Legislative businesses especially during theAssembly Sessions. During the year 2022-2023, the 10th and 11th Sessions of the Eighth Mizoram LegislativeAssembly were summoned and prorogued by His Excellency, the Governor of Mizoram. During the 10th Session, 7 (seven) Legislative proposals and during the 11th Session, 21 (twenty one) Legislative proposals were submitted to the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Secretariat for introduction and laying in the Assembly Sessions.
37. Under the General Administration Department (GAD), Land Acquisition process and payment of compensation for NH-54 Kaochao-Tipa and the same for a road length of 153 kms. in Siaha District have been completed. DPR for Rs. 298.91 lakh was approved by NEC for development of identified backyard Blocks. Rs. 492 lakh was received from NEC for provision of Key Identified Services for West Bunghmun Block. Owing to excellent performance under Aspirational District Programme, NITI Aayog has awarded Rs. 3 crore to Mamit District. Elections to Mara Autonomous District Council, Lunglei Municipal Council and 30 Village Councils and 6 Local Councils by-elections were successfully conducted. 3G estimate for supplementary award in project widening and upgradation of NH-54 and NH-06 have been completed. Secretariat Administration Wing had earned revenue of Rs. 11,63,590/- from collection of parking fee from Multi-level Car Parking building and other sources.
38. As many as 154 proposals for creation of new posts were approved under DP&AR during the period of 2022-2023. The Department also settled 695 vacant posts by promotion, 163 nos. by Limited Departmental Examination and 543 by Direct Recruitment.
The DP&AR has also approved regularisation of 154 nos. of contract employees and 809 nos. of Provisional Employees. The Department has finalised check slips of 10240 State Government Employees for their upgradation under MACPS (Modified Assured Career Progressive Scheme), 2020.
During the year 2022-2023, the Mizoram Subordinate Service Selection Board conducted as many as 51 direct recruitment examinations, 45 Limited Departmental Examinations and Departmental examinations for JE, Overseers and Section Assistants under PWD. The Board also recommended 983 incumbents for promotion and 53 Contract Employees for regularization.
39. The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has given financial assistance amounting to Rs. 10 crore for construction of State Institute of Hotel Management (SIHM) at Bung Bungalow in Aizawl. The Institute is designed to conduct degree level courses and food craft courses. Further, a sum of Rs. 1000 crore has been allotted for development of tourism in Mizoram under ExternallyAided Project, which aims towards development of both tourism and sports infrastructure in all 11 districts of Mizoram. The 24th Annual Convention of Tour Guides’ Federation of India was successfully hosted by Mizoram Tourism on 26th May, 2023 in Aizawl.
40. Online submission of Property Return of Group A and B (Gazetted) officers, which was implemented from 2018, is successfully continued till date under the Vigilance Department.
41. As a revenue earning department, Taxation Department has collected Rs. 1020.66 crore against the target amount of Rs. 900.03 crore which is the highest ever tax collection during 2022-2023. The Department has taken up efforts to expand and deepen the tax net to increase tax revenue during the current year of 2023-2024 and has so far earned Rs. 415.84 crore till July, 2023.
42. The Printing & Stationery Department, as one of the revenue earming departments, has collected Rs. 19,63,778/- from printing works and Rs. 1,03,37,407/- from sale of stationery items druing 2022-2023 (upto June, 2023).
43. During 2022-2023, the District Council & Minority Affairs Department released grant-in-aid (non salary) amounting to Rs. 12,33,00,000/- to LADC, Rs. 11,05,99,000/- to MADC and Rs. 5,85,00,000/- to CADC respectively. Further, grant-in-aid (non- salary) amounting to Rs. 1,27,50,000/- to LADC, Rs. 1,24,62,000/ - to MADC and Rs. 77,98,000/- had also been released to Village Councils under the 3 (three) Autonomous District Councils.
44. Under SEDP, Land Resources, Soil & Water Conservation Department has initiated Arecanut Plantation for 2300 families, Coffee Plantation for 10 families and Broom Grass Plantation for 3316 families with the total expenditure of Rs. 14.20 crore.
45. As per direction of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, the Disaster Management & Rehabilitation Department had disbursed ex gratia of Rs. 50,000/- each to 709 persons who died of Covid-19. The State Govt. had also distributed Rs. 20 lakh each to frontline workers who died of Covid-19 while on duty.
Disaster Control Rooms or District Emergency Operation Centres (DEOC) have been set up within DCs’ Office premises. These Centres are equipped with WT Sets with MPRO personnel, basic Search & Rescue equipments, emergency toll free telephone ‘1077’, etc. The District Disaster Management Plan, which documents the Hazard Risks, Response Mechanism, etc. is in place and updated annually. A Quick Response Team, comprising of 14 members, has been constituted under the Aizawl District Disaster Management Authority.
46. Under the Information & Public Relations Department, various measures are being continuously taken up to boost and promote art, films and fine arts within and outside the state. The NEC funded project ‘Lianchhiari Run (A Multi Facility Centre at TuikualA,Aizawl) was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah on 1st April, 2023. The Centre is being furnished and will shortly be operational, with facilities such as mini theatre, art gallery, exhibition space, multi-level vehicles parking etc. for public use. With the recruitment of 4 (four) new MIS officers and their subsequent posting to the new Districts, the Department now functions in all the 11 Districts. 2 (two) Mizo filmmakers were sent to the world famous Cannes Film Festival in May, 2023. Under Mizoram Journalist Welfare Scheme, 47 journalists and their dependents were provided medical assistance and families of 2 (two) journalists, who passed away, were given ex-gratia of Rs. 1.5 lakh each. 140 journalists were given accreditation credentials in April 2023.
The Mizoram Lokayukta hosted and sponsored 30 various anti-corruption awareness campaigns in collaboration with various NGOs to make the public vigilant about corruption and its detrimental effects.
Today, at the end of four and half years, I look back on the work of my government with a certain sense of pride and satisfaction. It has, indeed, been a humbling journey for me. Much has been done and achieved, yet much more is left to be done in all areas. We must work harder to gather and mobilise our resources to ensure all-round development of our state and its people.
On today’s joyous occasion, I once again express my sincere gratitude to the people of Mizoram, all NGOs and religious institutions for your faith and confidence in the government and for your support and co-operation in its endeavours. The commitment and resolve of the civil society as well as brave individuals to aid the government to counter recent humanitarian problems is indeed commendable. I appreciate the sincerity and professional sagacity of the government servants; and I would also like to thank media persons and all the central government institutions operating in Mizoram for your contribution and endless support.
As we celebrate our country’s independence and revel in its glorious achievements, let us take a solemn pledge to re-dedicate ourselves to work for the unity, peace and harmony of the nation. Let us continue to strive towards greater heights for our country and the state of Mizoram with new clarity and dedication.
Ka lawm e.
Jai Hind.
