Saitual, May 4, 2026: Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey on Monday visited Saitual district and held a comprehensive review meeting with officials from various government departments to assess developmental needs and discuss key issues affecting the district. The visit formed part of the Centre’s efforts to engage directly with local administrations and evaluate challenges faced by remote regions.
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| Union MoS for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey chairs a review meeting with officials at the Saitual Conference Room during his district visit. (Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
The review meeting was held at the district headquarters and attended by officials from several departments, including representatives of the Geology and Mining Department, agriculture-related sectors, healthcare services, and district administration. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Srinivas Sadi, who welcomed the Union Minister and facilitated discussions on the district’s developmental priorities.
During the interaction, Dubey emphasized the importance of strengthening the agricultural sector, which remains a primary source of livelihood for many families in the district. He highlighted the need for improved post-harvest infrastructure, particularly the establishment of cold storage facilities, to help farmers preserve perishable produce and reduce losses. The Minister noted that better storage and marketing infrastructure would enable farmers to obtain improved returns for their products and contribute to rural economic growth.
He also stressed the importance of enhancing overall agricultural support systems, including transportation and market access, to ensure that local farmers can benefit more effectively from government programmes and development initiatives.
Another major issue discussed during the meeting was the growing concern over substance abuse among youth. Dubey expressed concern about the social impact of drug and substance addiction and called for stronger awareness campaigns and preventive measures at the community level. He urged government departments, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and local leaders to work together to address the issue through education, counselling, and community engagement.
The Minister underscored the importance of safeguarding young people from the dangers of substance abuse, noting that collective efforts are essential to building healthier and more resilient communities.
The meeting also focused on the development of Mizoram’s mining sector. Assistant Controller of Mines Lalthankima presented a detailed overview of the current status of mining activities in the state, outlining opportunities, challenges, and requirements faced by the Directorate of Geology and Mining. Officials discussed issues related to infrastructure, technical support, and resource management.
Responding to the presentation, Dubey assured officials that the concerns and requirements raised by the department would receive due consideration. He stated that the Central Government remains committed to supporting the development of the geology and mining sector and would extend necessary assistance to strengthen its functioning and contribute to economic growth.
Following the review meeting, the Union Minister visited Saitual District Hospital to assess healthcare services and infrastructure. During the visit, he interacted with medical personnel and reviewed the facilities available to residents of the district.
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Hospital officials, including Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Zothanpari Chhakchhuak, District Medical Superintendent Dr. Lalhmunmawii, and Senior Medical Officer Dr. V. Lalremruata, briefed the Minister on healthcare services, staffing, and ongoing efforts to improve medical care in the district. Dubey also discussed challenges faced by healthcare providers and emphasized the importance of strengthening public health infrastructure in remote areas.
Officials stated that the Minister’s visit provided an opportunity to highlight district-level concerns and seek support for ongoing development initiatives. The interaction enabled departments to present their priorities directly to the Union Government and discuss ways to improve service delivery and infrastructure.
The visit concluded with a commitment from both central and district authorities to continue working together to address key developmental challenges and promote sustainable growth in Saitual district.
