MIZORAM BOY RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL BRAVERY AWARD

Lamtluang Online News: A 15-year-old boy from Sialsuk village in Mizoram, Lalrinmawia, son of Lalrotlinga, has received the esteemed ICCW National Bravery Award for Children and Youth in New Delhi on 30 January 2025. This prestigious award, presented by the Indian Council for Child Welfare, is a testament to Lalrinmawia's remarkable act of courage.

On 7 August 2024, Lalrinmawia demonstrated exceptional bravery when he rescued Lallawmawma, a class 10 student at Sialsuk High School, from drowning in the Sialsuk YMA Tuikhuaha (lake). Lalrinmawia, the deserving recipient of the award, is currently a pupil at Government Sialsuk High School.

MIZO IDOL 2025 TO TAKE PLACE LATER THIS YEAR

Lamtluang Online News: Mizo Idol 2025 will take place later this year. As of 30 January 2025, preparations are underway for the forthcoming competition, which is being organised by ZONET. The inaugural Mizo Idol competition was held in 2007, and Lallawmpuia Fanai was the first winner. ZONET is currently making preparations to host Mizo Idol 2025, which is expected to take place towards the end of the year.

ZORAM MEDICAL COLLEGE GETS NEW NAME AND STATUS

Lamtluang Online News: Mizoram's sole medical college, Zoram Medical College (ZMC), has been renamed and brought under the auspices of the state government. The Mizoram government has converted ZMC from a society-run institution to a government-run entity, in accordance with the decision made by the Council of Ministers on 20 December 2024.

The institution's name has been changed to Zoram Medical College & Hospital, Falkawn, as it incorporates the State Referral Hospital. The institution was previously known as Mizoram Institute of Medical Education & Research (MIMER) during the Congress party's tenure. However, it was subsequently renamed Zoram Medical College during the MNF government's administration. The institution has now been rebranded as Zoram Medical College & Hospital, Falkawn.

Source: Bengvarna

NEWLY ELECTED BAPTIST CHURCH OF MIZORAM (BCM) LEADERS

Lamtluang Online News: The Baptist Church of Mizoram (BCM) Assembly Executive Committee meeting began today (29 January 2025) at the BCM Headquarters, Serkawn, Lunglei, and will continue tomorrow.

The following BCM leaders were elected for the term 2025-2028: Rev. Dr. H Lalthlamuana as General Secretary, Rev. Vanlalmuankima as Assistant General Secretary (Service), Rev. R Lalrintluanga as Assistant General Secretary (Mission), Rev. Dr. Lalzarliana as Executive Secretary (Lawngtlai), and Rev. C Lalhungliana as Executive Secretary (Aizawl).

MIZORAM FORMER CHIEF MINISTER MEETS GOVERNOR

Lamtluang Online News: Mizoram's former Chief Minister, Pu Zoramthanga, met with the Mizoram Governor, General (Dr) VK Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), at Raj Bhavan today. During the meeting, Pu Zoramthanga extended his greetings to the Governor. They also discussed various important and pressing matters concerning Mizoram.

TRAGIC INCIDENT: TWO MINOR BOYS ATTACKED BY BEAR

Lamtluang Online News: On 25 January 2025, at approximately 1:00 pm, two minor boys, Vanlalpianruala (12) and Deny Zothanpuia (13), from Hmunpui village (Mamit District in Mizoram) were severely injured by a bear whilst they were grazing cattle with their parents. The boys were rushed to Aizawl Civil Hospital for treatment.

According to eyewitnesses, the boys were approximately 8 kilometres away from their village, grazing cattle with their parents, when the bear suddenly attacked them. The boys suffered severe leg injuries, with one of them sustaining serious eye injuries, resulting in significant bleeding. The full extent of his eye injury has yet to be determined.

The boys are currently receiving treatment at Aizawl Civil Hospital.

MIZORAM CELEBRATES 76TH REPUBLIC DAY

Lamtluang Online News, Aizawl, 26 January 2025: India is celebrating its 76th Republic Day today, marking the day the Constitution of India came into effect. Mizoram has joined the rest of India in celebrating this momentous occasion.

The main celebration in Mizoram was held at Sipai Lammual at 07:30 hours, where the Governor, Gen (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), unfurled the national flag. Following the flag hoisting, the Governor delivered a speech.

In his speech, the Governor extended his greetings to the people of Mizoram on the 76th Republic Day. "On this important day, we adopted our Constitution, which has given us justice, equality, and freedom," he said.

The Governor paid tribute to the brave men and women who have made sacrifices for the country's freedom and prosperity. He urged the people of Mizoram to work together to maintain India's unity and integrity.

He also expressed his gratitude to the people involved in making the Republic Day celebrations a success.

TUALPUI VILLAGE STANDS UNITED: ZPM VILLAGE COUNCIL ELECTED UNOPPOSED IN HONOUR OF CM LALDUHOMA

Lamtluang Online News: The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) local unit candidates are poised to be declared officially elected unopposed in the forthcoming Mizoram Village Council election in Tualpui, the ancestral home of Mizoram's esteemed Chief Minister, Lalduhoma. This remarkable outcome follows the opposition parties' decision not to field any candidates as a mark of respect.

This unprecedented move was prompted by a request from Tualpui Welfare Aizawl, which urged opposition parties to refrain from nominating candidates for the election, thereby paying tribute to Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, who hails from the village.

TRUCK OPERATIONS GRIND TO A HALT IN MIZORAM OVER ROAD SAFETY CONCERNS

Lamtluang Online News, 22nd January 2025: Due to the poor condition of the road, trucks will be halted from tomorrow onwards. According to reports, the Mizoram Truck Owners' Association and the Mizoram Truck Drivers' Association have announced that they will halt truck operations from tomorrow, Monday, until the road between Vairengte and Sairang is repaired to make it suitable for trucks.

The decision will be implemented strictly, with duties commencing at 7 am tomorrow at their respective site offices in Rangvamual, Kawnpui, and Kolasib. The leaders of the MTOA stated that their decision to halt truck operations is not a form of protest, but rather due to the poor condition of the road, which has caused numerous accidents and is no longer safe for drivers.

As a result, they will continue to halt truck operations until the road is repaired to make it suitable for trucks. The MTOA has requested the public to cooperate and understand the difficulties that may arise during the halt.

HANDING OVER OF CHARGE AND PREVIEW MEETING FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS

Lamtluang Online News: The Mizoram People Forum (MPF) General Headquarters Governing Board organised a charge-handing ceremony at Synod Committee Room 1 on 21 January 2025. The outgoing president, Rev R Vanlalnghaka, handed over the charge to the newly elected president, Rev RC Lalnghakliana. The MPF also convened a preview meeting to discuss the forthcoming Local Council and Village Council elections.

LZ VARTE BECOMES FIRST MIZO TO ENTER INDIA BOOK OF RECORDS

Lamtluang Online News: Vanlallawmzuala Varte (Lz Varte) from Mission Veng has become the first Mizo to enter the India Book of Records. He received the record certificate on 16 January 2025 for cycling across all states and union territories in India, covering a distance of approximately 17,045 km in 285 days. The theme of his journey was 'Ride to Clean Air', which aimed to promote awareness about clean air and ways to prevent air pollution.

Lz Varte collected plastic waste and encouraged others to join him in this initiative. He interacted with local communities, sharing his message and inspiring others to take action. Lz Varte was presented with the record certificate by Tapan Datta on behalf of the India Book of Records. This achievement makes him the first Mizo to be recognised by the India Book of Records.

Samuel Lalbiakhlua from Saitual, who holds the record for being the youngest certified paragliding pilot in the world, as recognised by the International Book of Records, attended the event. Some of Lz Varte's notable achievements include cycling from Mizoram's easternmost point to the westernmost point, covering Three Country Point; completing a 200 km cycle ride with an elevation gain of 11,034 m; and setting a 24-hour cycling record, covering 330 km from Tuirial Airfield.

Lz Varte covered a distance of approximately 17,045 km in 285 days, visiting all states and union territories in India. His longest ride in a day was 207.82 km, from Lucknow to Badlapur, UP. He achieved his fastest speed in West Bengal, cycling from Kurseong to Darjeeling at a speed of 68.8 km per hour. In January 2024, Lz Varte cycled around 500 km, and from February to April 2024, he covered over 2,000 km per month. From May to November 2024, he consistently cycled around 1,278 km per month.

The record certificate presentation and felicitation ceremony was chaired by Dr Malsawmkima. Upa Zonunmawia led the devotion, and Professor Zodinpuia Pachuau presented the technical report. Lz Varte shared his experiences during the ceremony, and his father, VL Chhuanawma, expressed his gratitude.

GENERAL VK SINGH SWORN IN AS 25TH MIZORAM GOVERNOR

Lamtluang Online News: General VK Singh has taken the oath of office as the 25th Governor of Mizoram at the Circular Lawn, Raj Bhavan in Aizawl. He was administered the oath by Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi.

General Singh, a retired Indian Army chief, has had a distinguished career, serving as the 26th Chief of the Army Staff. He is also a recipient of several honours, including the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Yudh Seva Medal (YSM).

Prior to his governorship, General Singh was a Member of Parliament and held various ministerial positions, including Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways.

MIZORAM VC AND LC ELECTION DATES ANNOUNCED

Lamtluang Online News: Mizoram State Election Commissioner, Dr H Lalthlangliana, has announced the election dates for Village Councils (VCs) and Local Councils (LCs). The elections are scheduled to take place on 12 February 2025. With the announcement of the election dates, the Model Code of Conduct has also come into effect.

HON'BLE JUSTICE VIJAY BISHNOY LAUNCHES SPECIAL CAMPAIGN FOR OLD PRISONERS AND TERMINALLY ILL PRISONERS

Lamtluang Online News: On 11 January 2025, Hon'ble Justice Vijay Bishnoy, Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, launched the 'Special Campaign for Old Prisoners and Terminally Ill Prisoners and Skill Development' at District Jail, Lawngtlai, Mizoram.

He emphasised the importance of providing prisoners with employable skills, enabling them to lead dignified lives after release. Justice Bishnoy praised Mizoram SLSA and DLSA for their effective implementation of the campaign.

Justice Michael Zothankhuma, Judge of the Gauhati High Court, highlighted Mizoram's efforts in rehabilitating prisoners through various programmes, including agriculture, animal husbandry, carpentry, and computer training.

The Chief Justice stressed the need for collaborative efforts between government departments, NGOs, and individuals to support prisoner rehabilitation.

District Jail, Lawngtlai, has a capacity of 90 prisoners and is currently housing 36 prisoners. The programme was attended by government officials, including Pu Cheemala Siva Gopal Reddy, IAS, District Deputy Commissioner.

KHAWHAI PHC RANKED AMONG INDIA'S BEST GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS

Lamtluang Online News: Khawhai Primary Health Centre (PHC), located in Khawzawl district, Mizoram state, has been ranked among the best government hospitals in India. According to the National Health Mission, Health and Family Welfare Department, Khawhai PHC achieved the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) with a score of 90.13%. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Mizoram, as 14 government hospitals in the state have already received the NQAS national certificate. Furthermore, 15 more government hospitals are currently applying for the national certificate, having passed the state-level assessment.

Health Minister Pi Lalrinpuii praised the achievement, stating that the inclusion of Mizoram's hospitals among India's best is a notable achievement for the state. She attributed the success to the hard work and dedication of all healthcare workers, noting that these achievements demonstrate the government's commitment to providing quality healthcare services.

MIZORAM POLICE CONSTABLE RECRUITMENT NOTICE

Lamtluang Online News: The Mizoram government is set to recruit Police Constables (Unarmed Branch) – 51, Constable (Armed Branch) – 200, and Constable (Mechanic) – 8. Applicants must have been born between 22 January 1997 and 22 January 2007, and be between 18 and 28 years old (with a 5-year relaxation for ST/SC and 3 years for OBC). Applicants must be Indian citizens, have passed HSLC or a higher qualification, and meet other eligibility criteria.

Applicants for Constable (Mechanic) must hold an ITI certificate or equivalent, and have at least five years' experience working with government or private vehicle manufacturers.

Applications can be submitted online through the Police Recruitment Online Portal (https://mizopolicerec.in) by 22 January 2025. The application fee is ₹300 for ST/SC/OBC and ₹400 for General Category.

For further details, please visit the Mizoram Police website (police.mizoram.gov.in) or the Police Recruitment Online Portal (https://mizopolicerec.in)

MIZORAM HOSPITALS EXCEL IN NATIONAL QUALITY ASSURANCE STANDARDS

Lamtluang Online News: India's best government hospitals include Siaha District Hospital and Lawngtlai District Hospital, along with two Primary Health Centres (PHCs): East Lungdar and Phuaibuang PHC.

According to the National Health Mission, Health and Family Welfare Department, Siaha District Hospital, East Lungdar PHC, and Phuaibuang PHC have met the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS).

Previously, Aibawk PHC, Thingsulthliah PHC, Civil Hospital Aizawl, Civil Hospital Lunglei, Champhai District Hospital, ITI UPHC, Chawlhhmun UPHC, Haulawng PHC, and Sialhawk PHC had also achieved this feat.

To meet the NQAS standards, hospitals must undergo various tests at state and national levels respectively. Siaha District Hospital scored 92.53%, Lawngtlai District Hospital scored 88.08%, East Lungdar PHC scored 89.29%, and Phuaibuang PHC scored 84.23%.

Siaha District Hospital has also received the LaQshya certificate for being one of the best hospitals in India for childbirth and infant care. Additionally, the hospital has received the Platinum Certificate. The hospital has also been recognised for its child healthcare services under the MusQan program.

Lawngtlai District Hospital has also received the LaQshya certificate.

The National Health Mission (NHM), Mizoram, has expressed pride in the recognition of these hospitals. This achievement is a significant milestone for the department and the state.

MYANMAR: 95 CIVILIANS KILLED IN DECEMBER 2024

Lamtluang Online News: In December 2024, a total of 95 civilians lost their lives in Myanmar. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) reported this on 7 January 2025.

The deceased comprised 35 women, 59 men, one transgender person and 14 minors. Of these, 45 people died as a result of torture, while 30 succumbed to severe injuries.

The majority of the fatalities occurred in the Mandalay region, with 17 deaths reported in the Bago region. According to the AAPP, these deaths were attributable to the actions of the military council's soldiers and their affiliated groups.

Since the military council assumed power, a total of 6,124 people, including revolutionaries and civilians, have lost their lives, as of 7 January 2025.

MIZO WOMAN DEFIES CONVENTION AS AUTO-RICKSHAW DRIVER

Lamtluang Online News: Pi Lalawmpuii, a 48-year-old resident of Thingkah, Lawngtlai district, has taken up driving an auto-rickshaw to earn a living. She has been driving the auto-rickshaw for the past four months, providing services within the Lawngtlai town area.

As a mother of four, Lalawmpuii's decision to take up this unconventional profession is testament to her determination and resilience. Her husband, Rorelliana, is a carpenter, and the couple have built a stable life for themselves.

Notably, Lalawmpuii is the only female auto-rickshaw driver in Lawngtlai district, and possibly in the entire state of Mizoram.While there are female city bus conductors, two-wheeler taxi drivers and maxi cab drivers in Aizawl and other urban areas, Lalawmpuii's achievement is a significant milestone in rural Mizoram.

Her success story highlights the growing trend of women taking up non-traditional occupations in Mizo society.

As women like Lalawmpuii continue to break barriers and challenge stereotypes, they pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

A VOICE SILENCED: MIZO MUSIC MOURNS THE LOSS OF C. VANLALZUIA

Lamtluang Online News: Renowned Mizo singer and All India Radio Artist, C. Vanlalzuia, and his wife have tragically died in an auto-rickshaw accident on 8 January 2025.

The accident occurred at Sathar kham, near Champhai Zote outskirts, on the road leading to Ngur village. C. Vanlalzuia, known for his hit song 'Derna Anka', was travelling with his wife, Hmangaihzuali, when their auto-rickshaw skidded off the road and ran down below the roadside. His wife died instantly at the scene. C. Vanlalzuia suffered severe injuries and was rushed to Champhai District Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The Mizo music community mourns the loss of this talented artist and his beloved wife.

CHRISTIANS IN PALETTWA TOWNSHIP CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY

Lamtluang Online News: The 100th anniversary of Christianity in Paletwa township, Chin State, was celebrated in SwePyiThu, Yangon region. The centenary celebration took place on 4 January, from 8 am to 4 pm, at MyoSitThit, No. 3 ward, SwePyiThar town.

Approximately 200 people from Paletwa in Yangon region attended the celebration, which was described as very joyful. The event was organised by the Centenary Committee of the Paletwa Township Christian Union, with various church unions participating enthusiastically.

The celebration showcased traditional Khumi and other ethnic cultural performances, including those from the Rakhine (Arakan), Lisho, and Matu communities. The church in Paletwa township, Chin State, was founded by Rev. Edwin Rowlands (Zosapthara) in January 1925, marking its 100th anniversary in January 2025.

HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV) OUTBREAK: PRECAUTIONS ADVISED BY HEALTH DEPARTMENT, GOVERNMENT OF MIZORAM

Lamtluang Online News: The Health Department, Government of Mizoram, has issued precautions to prevent the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in the state. A Core Committee on HMPV, chaired by Health Minister Pi Lalrinpuii, has been formed to tackle the recent outbreak.

The committee has advised the public to take necessary precautions, stating that the HMPV outbreak is a type of seasonal flu that occurs annually. The public is advised to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, avoid close contact with people who are sick, cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.

The Health Department has assured that it is closely monitoring the situation and has made arrangements to conduct tests at Zoram Medical College in Mizoram. The department has also stated that no new cases of Influenza-like illness and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness have been reported in the state.

MIZO IAS OFFICER R LALVENA PROMOTED TO PRINCIPAL SECRETARY

Lamtluang Online News: Mr. R Lalvena, a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Mizo community, has been promoted to the rank of Principal Secretary, a remarkable achievement for which the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has congratulated him.

Mr Lalvena, a 2001 batch IAS officer, has had a distinguished career trajectory. Before joining the IAS, he worked with the Indian Postal Service for approximately six months. He secured the 158th All-India Rank in the IAS examinations and was among the top three tribal candidates nationwide.

Currently, as part of the Tamil Nadu cadre, Mr Lalvena serves as Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Food Safety and Drugs Control in the Tamil Nadu government. Previously, he served as Secretary to the Government of Mizoram on deputation, gaining valuable experience in governance.

Mr R Lalvena IAS receives recognition from MK Stalin, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister 

FELI FANAI TRANSFERRED TO EBENEZER ICU FOR FURTHER TREATMENT

Lamtluang Online News: Feli Fanai, a renowned Mizo singer, has been transferred to Ebenezer Medical Centre's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for further treatment of her liver complications.

She was initially admitted to Aizawl Hospital on 20 December 2024, after experiencing severe liver-related health issues, and was immediately placed in the ICU.

A team of medical experts provided treatment, including multiple blood transfusions, at Aizawl Hospital.

However, despite showing some improvement, Feli Fanai's condition worsened due to liver complications, prompting her transfer to Ebenezer Medical Centre on 6 January 2025.

She is currently undergoing treatment in the ICU, where her condition remains critical.

Feli Fanai 

MIZORAM TRANSPORT MINISTER MEETS UNION MINISTER TO DISCUSS INLAND WATER TRANSPORT PROJECTS

Lamtluang Online News: Mizoram's Transport Minister, Pu Vanlalhlana, met the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Pu Sarbananda Sonowal, on 6 January 2025.

The meeting's purpose was to expedite the development of Inland Water Transport (IWT) projects in Mizoram.

The Transport Department is currently implementing three IWT projects: the development of waterways on River Khawthlangtuipui-River Tuichawng, River Tlawng (National Waterway-102) and River Chhimtuipui.

Techno-economic feasibility studies for these projects have been completed, and detailed project reports (DPRs) are being finalised.

Furthermore, the Transport Minister highlighted Tuirial Dam's potential as a tourist destination and stressed the importance of conducting feasibility studies to develop a comprehensive plan for its tourism potential.

The meeting was attended by Transport Director Er R Lalrammawia, who accompanied Minister Pu Vanlalhlana.

Source: DIPR Mizoram

MIZO FOOTBALL STAR LZ CHHANGTE UPHOLDS COMMUNITY TRADITION

Lamtluang Online News: Mumbai City FC captain Lallianzuala Chhangte (LZ Chhangte) returned to his roots in Zohnuai, Lunglei, Mizoram, during his Christmas holidays and participated in a traditional community grave-digging service alongside volunteers from the Young Mizo Association (YMA). By doing so, he upheld a cherished custom that emphasises community solidarity and collective responsibility in times of need. This heartwarming gesture showcased Chhangte's strong connection to his community and his commitment to preserving traditional values.

FIRECRACKERS BAN PROVES INEFFECTIVE IN AIZAWL DURING NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS 2025

Lamtluang Online News, 1 January 2025: The ban on firecrackers and fireworks during Christmas and New Year celebrations was extensively publicized, but ultimately failed to yield the desired results. Although there was a noticeable decrease in the number of firecrackers burst on New Year's night compared to previous years, the ban fell short of achieving its intended objective.

Extensive efforts were made by the government and NGOs to enforce the ban. In Aizawl, NGOs were deployed in every locality, while the police maintained a vigilant presence, utilizing drones for surveillance.

Despite these measures, numerous firecrackers were still burst. The ban has clearly failed to achieve its intended purpose. The Government, Church and NGOs initiate annual campaigns to ban firecrackers and fireworks during New Year celebrations, but these efforts have been consistently unsuccessful.