Aizawl, Feb 5: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Thursday interacted with a delegation of senior military and civilian officers from the National Defence College (NDC) who are currently visiting the state as part of the institution’s “Understanding India” Study Tour programme.
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| Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma with senior officers of the National Defence College during an interaction at the Chief Minister’s Office in Aizawl on February 5.(Image:DIPR Mizoram) |
The delegation, comprising senior officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, including officers of the rank of Brigadier and equivalent ranks, as well as Joint Secretary-level civil servants and representatives from friendly foreign countries, called on the Chief Minister at his office in Aizawl during their visit to the state.
Welcoming the delegation, Lalduhoma highlighted Mizoram’s unique social and cultural characteristics, describing it as one of the most peaceful states in the country. He noted that the state enjoys a high literacy rate, low crime levels, and a strong sense of community responsibility, which have contributed significantly to social harmony and stability.
The Chief Minister pointed out that despite the rapid increase in the number of vehicles over the years, Aizawl continues to maintain its reputation as a calm, orderly, and safe city. He remarked that women and children can move about freely without fear, reflecting the secure environment that exists in the state.
As an example of the trust and integrity prevalent in Mizo society, Lalduhoma referred to the traditional “Nghahloh Dawr” or honesty shops, where goods are displayed for sale without shopkeepers being physically present. Customers voluntarily pay for the items they purchase, demonstrating the strong values of honesty and mutual trust that continue to characterize Mizo communities.
During the interaction, the Chief Minister also briefed the visiting officers on the Mizoram Government’s development priorities and future vision. He outlined the state's efforts to promote digital governance, improve public service delivery, and enhance transparency through technology-driven initiatives. He further explained Mizoram’s aspirations to contribute meaningfully to India’s economic growth and development goals leading up to 2047, when the country marks 100 years of independence.
Lalduhoma highlighted several developmental initiatives being pursued by the state government, including efforts to strengthen infrastructure, improve connectivity, expand tourism, and create opportunities for economic growth. He said Mizoram's peaceful environment, educated workforce, and strong community institutions provide a solid foundation for sustainable development.
The Chief Minister also expressed appreciation for the National Defence College’s study tour programme, noting that such visits provide valuable opportunities for senior officers and policymakers to gain a deeper understanding of different regions of the country. He wished the delegation a productive and enjoyable stay in Mizoram.
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Members of the delegation shared their impressions of the state during the interaction. Several officers described Mizoram as a scenic and welcoming destination, praising its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the hospitality of its people. They also observed that the state possesses significant tourism potential and expressed confidence that visitor numbers would continue to grow in the years ahead.
The NDC delegation is being led by Air Vice Marshal M.V. Patel, VM, SDS (Air), Faculty In-Charge of the National Defence College. During their stay, the officers are scheduled to meet senior government officials, interact with local stakeholders, and visit important locations across Mizoram to gain insights into the state's governance, development, culture, and strategic significance.
Officials said the visit forms part of the National Defence College’s broader effort to expose senior officers and policymakers to diverse regions of India, enabling them to better understand the country's social, economic, cultural, and administrative realities.
