502/2024-2025
Aizawl, 15th March 2025: Today, an official function was held at Sector 23 HQ Assam Rifles, Khatla, Aizawl, marking the relocation of Assam Rifles from Aizawl’s city center to Zokhawsanga. Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah graced the event.
In his speech, Shri Amit Shah stated that the dreams of the Mizo people for over 35 years have finally been realized with the relocation of Assam Rifles from Aizawl’s urban area to Zokhawsanga. He emphasized that this move is not just about shifting the camp but also about fostering Aizawl’s development and improving the quality of life for its residents. He extended his congratulation to the people of Mizoram and assured them of the Central Government’s continued commitment to their welfare.
He described the relocation as a historic step, marking a significant milestone in Aizawl’s urban development. He reiterated that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s government values the aspirations of the Mizo people and is dedicated to their progress. He also thanked Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma and Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, DG Assam Rifles, for their efforts in making this relocation possible.
Shri Amit Shah highlighted major infrastructure projects in Mizoram, including the ongoing construction of a 4-lane highway from Vairengte to Aizawl, the double-lane highway from Aizawl to Tuipang, and the development of Sairang railway station. He stated that these initiatives, along with others under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aim to accelerate development in Mizoram and the entire Northeast region.
Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma, in his speech, thanked Shri Amit Shah for his support in the transfer of Assam Rifles and stated that his name shall be remembered and engraved in the history of Mizoram. He noted that the relocation of Assam Rifles from Aizawl’s center is a long-awaited step that will significantly impact the city’s development. He acknowledged the contributions of Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, Director General of Assam Rifles, for ensuring the success of the relocation. He also extended his gratitude to Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan and Shri Tapan Deka, Director of Intelligence Bureau, for their roles in this initiative.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Mizoram, as a mountainous state, faces unique challenges in urban planning, and Aizawl’s rapid expansion necessitates infrastructural improvements. He expressed confidence that the relocation of Assam Rifles is a step toward making Aizawl a more livable and well-planned city. However, he also assured that Mizoram continues to recognize the vital role of Assam Rifles and will maintain cooperation for the security and well-being of the state.
Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General of Assam Rifles, also addressed the gathering, expressing his appreciation for the Mizoram government’s cooperation.
During the event, Pu Vanlaldina Fanai, Commissioner of GAD, Mizoram, and Lt. Gen. Vikas Lakhera, Director General of Assam Rifles, exchanged maps—one showing the new location of Assam Rifles at Zokhawsanga and the other detailing the land to be handed over to the Government of Mizoram by Assam Rifles.
The relocation program was inaugurated by Shri Amit Shah with a ceremonial lamp-lighting. Pu Khilli Ram Meena, Chief Secretary of Mizoram, delivered the welcome speech, Most Rev. Rotluanga, Bishop of Aizawl Diocese, led a prayer service, and Pi Ramdinliani, Secretary to the Government of Mizoram, proposed the vote of thanks.
The event was attended by key officials, including Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan, Director of Intelligence Bureau Shri Tapan Deka, senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, high-ranking Mizoram government officials, and Assam Rifles officers.
Notably, during a press conference held on 26th October 2024, Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma announced that a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Assam Rifles and the Mizoram government was signed on 23rd October 2024 at Mizoram House, New Delhi. The MoU outlined the relocation process and the terms of land transfer. A detailed press note was also released at that time.
