Daijiworld Media Network - Aizwal
Aizwal, Mar 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during an event in Aizawl on Saturday, emphasized the Modi-led government's decade-long efforts to integrate, develop, and strengthen the northeastern states. The event marked the official transfer of Assam Rifles land to the Mizoram government and the relocation of the paramilitary force’s establishments from Aizawl to Zokhawsang.
Shah highlighted that the Modi government has implemented numerous initiatives across various sectors, including tourism, technology, sports, space, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, leading to unprecedented progress in the region. He also credited the Prime Minister for ensuring peace and stability in the Northeast, citing that Modi has visited the region 78 times—far surpassing the 21 visits made by previous Prime Ministers since independence.
He pointed out that, before 2014, Union Ministers from previous governments visited the Northeast only 71 times, whereas under the NDA government, Union Ministers have collectively made over 700 visits.
Shah described the transfer of Assam Rifles land as a significant milestone, reflecting the Centre’s commitment to Mizoram. He noted that this issue had been unresolved for over three decades and was finally settled under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.
The Home Minister also highlighted key development projects in Mizoram, including Rs 5,000 crore spent on road infrastructure, an ongoing Rs 5,000 crore railway project to connect Aizawl, and the Tuirial hydropower project worth Rs 1,300 crore. Additionally, 314 mobile towers are being installed to enhance communication networks in the state.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma called the transfer of land a historic achievement, acknowledging the long-standing demand pursued by successive state governments. He assured that the land would be used for the development and welfare of the people of Mizoram.
Several high-ranking officials, including Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Director of Intelligence Bureau Tapan Deka, Mizoram Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena, and Assam Rifles Director General Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, attended the event.
The relocation of Assam Rifles from Aizawl had been under discussion since 1988, following allegations of civilian casualties during a clash with the paramilitary force. An agreement for the relocation was signed between the Mizoram government and Assam Rifles in October 2023, and the Zokhawsang complex was inaugurated by Shah in April 2023.