Aizawl: Mizoram governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati hailed the historic Mizoram peace accord signed in 1986 as a shining example of lasting peace and prosperity as the northeastern state celebrated its 37th statehood day on Tuesday.
Addressing an official function marking the celebration of statehood day at Vanapa Hall in Aizawl, the governor said that the peace accord has ended two decades of insurgency and ushered in an era of peace and stability in the region.
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“The Mizoram Peace Accord ushered in an era of peace and stability. This accord stands as a shining example of how dialogue and reconciliation can pave the way for lasting peace and prosperity,” Kambhampati said as he urged people to cherish the fruits of the struggles and sufferings they have endured during 20 years of turmoil to attain statehood.
He said that Mizoram serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even in adversity, peace is possible.
“As we witness the challenges faced by our neighbors, let us reaffirm our commitment to peace and stability. I take this opportunity to congratulate the people of Mizoram for this enduring peace, and I urge all of us to continue this exemplary model for the rest of the country,” the governor said.
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He emphasised on the importance of preserving peace and stability if the state is to progress further in all aspects.
The governor also lauded the people of the state for their active participation in the electoral process and the disciplined manner in which elections were held in the state.
He said, “I sincerely believe that the peaceful elections in Mizoram are a model for other states to follow.”
Kambhampati also lauded the new Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) headed by chief minister Lalduhoma for its commitment to bring forth overall development of the state.
He said that the government’s 100 days programmes announced by the chief minister are being implemented in full swing.
He further said that the farmer-oriented initiatives to promote homegrown produce, commitments towards improvement in health and education sectors, austerity measures to alleviate the state’s dwindling economy, stringent measures to curb corruption at all levels, dedication towards the combat of substance abuse are all initiatives designed to take the state and its people to a whole new height.
Lalduhoma, who also addressed the celebration, said that Mizoram has to walk faster and, most importantly, work harder than others to catch up because it is a very late starter.
He said that his government will take all the necessary steps to promote growth and progress even if it takes some hard decisions.
Meanwhile, mass prayer programmes were held in Aizawl, Lunglei and other parts of the state to mark the statehood day.
Wearing sackcloths, thousands of people offered prayers besides singing hymns as a token of thanksgiving and repentance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other leaders also greeted the people of Mizoram on the occasion of statehood day.
In a post on X (formerly twitter), Modi said, “India is very proud of Mizoram’s unique cultural tapestry, its rich beauty and the warm-hearted spirit of its people. The Mizo culture is very inspiring, embodying a blend of tradition and harmony. Praying for continuous progress, peace and prosperity of Mizoram.”
Greeting to the people of Mizoram, Shah also said that Mizoram is a vibrant spot on the diverse mosaic of our cultural tapestry.
“All my best wishes are with them on the path toward further progress and well-being,” he said in a post on X.
Mizoram turned 37 years on Tuesday after the signing of a historic Mizoram peace accord between the Centre and Mizo National Front (MNF), the erstwhile underground headed by late Laldenga, in June 1986.
Mizoram’s first statehood day was inaugurated by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on February 20, 1987 as a result of the 1986 peace accord, which ended 20 years-long insurgency in the northeastern state.
Subsequently, Mizoram became the 23rd state of India on August 14, 1987 after the President gave his assent to a bill to make Mizoram (then union territory) a full-fledged state.