GUWAHATI: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s recent visit to New Delhi was marked by significant meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, strengthening collaboration for the progress and development of the state.
Delighted by the discussions, CM Lalduhoma described the interactions as “productive”, highlighting their shared commitment to Mizoram’s advancement.
Interestingly, Lalduhoma and Jaishankar share a long-standing connection, having been former batchmates during their civil services days. While Lalduhoma served in the Indian Police Service (IPS), Jaishankar pursued a career in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS).
“So glad to meet Chief Minister of Mizoram Lalduhoma. We began government service at the same time and trained together,” expressed Jaishankar.
Lalduhoma reciprocated the sentiment, calling the reunion with Jaishankar “wonderful.”
The Chief Minister’s three-day visit to New Delhi holds significance as it his first official trip to the national capital after assuming power in December.
During his discussions with central leaders, Lalduhoma is expected to address pressing issues, including the challenges posed by refugees and internally displaced people from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur.
Mizoram currently shelters over 31,300 Myanmar nationals, who sought refuge in the state following the military coup in their home country.
The Chin community, sharing ethnic ties with the Mizos, forms a significant part of this refugee population.
Additionally, Mizoram has been dealing with an influx of over 9,000 internally displaced people from strife-torn Manipur since an ethnic clash in May 2023.
The Mizoram government had previously urged the Centre for financial assistance of Rs 10 crore to aid the internally displaced people from Manipur, but action is yet to be taken.
The Chief Minister’s visit aims to engage with central authorities on these critical issues, seeking support and cooperation to address the challenges faced by Mizoram in providing refuge to those affected by regional conflicts.
