SIALSUK VILLAGE CELEBRATES BEST TOURISM VILLAGE AWARD

Lamtluang Online News: Sialsuk village in Mizoram was awarded the Best Tourism Village, Community-Based, 2024 by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the village celebrated this achievement with great enthusiasm on 5 December 2024. The celebration was attended by Tourism Minister Pi Lalrinpuii as the chief guest, accompanied by Aizawl South 3 MLA Baryl Vanneihsangi as the guest of honour.

In her address, Minister Pi Lalrinpuii highlighted the significant progress made in the tourism sector under the new government. She emphasised the importance of community-based tourism and encouraged the villagers to work together to develop their village as a top tourist destination.

The Minister stated that Sialsuk village was awarded the Best Tourism Village award for its community-based tourism initiatives. The village has been recognised for its efforts in promoting sustainable tourism practices and providing unique experiences for tourists.

The celebration featured traditional music and dance performances by local school students, adding to the festive atmosphere. As part of the celebration, Tourism Minister Pi Lalrinpuii also visited the Sialsuk Primary Health Centre (PHC) and discussed ways to improve healthcare facilities in the village with local leaders.

MSCI INAUGURATES SURGICAL SERVICES AND ICU FACILITIES

Lamtluang Online News: Mizoram State Cancer Institute (MSCI) has inaugurated its 'Surgical Services' and ICU facilities, marking a significant milestone in the state's healthcare sector. The inauguration ceremony took place on 4 December 2024 at MSCI's Zembawk campus.

Health Minister Pi Lalrinpuii inaugurated the facilities, which include an Operation Theatres Complex and a 7-bed ICU for cancer patients. Speaking at the inauguration programme, the Minister expressed her delight at the launch of surgery services and ICU at MSCI.

The Minister stated that the new facilities will greatly benefit many underprivileged people who cannot afford medical treatment. Additionally, many patients who require admission at Aizawl Civil Hospital and ZMC will now be able to receive treatment at MSCI, which will help to reduce the burden on these two major hospitals.

The government has prioritised the establishment of surgery services at MSCI, appointing cancer specialists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support the surgery team. However, the Minister noted that there is still a shortage of doctors and modern medical equipment in the tertiary and specialist sectors.

To address this, the Minister emphasised the importance of upgrading District Hospitals and major healthcare institutions. She also highlighted the need to explore collaborations with private companies to improve health services. Efforts are being made to establish IVF, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Neurosurgery facilities at ZMC.

MSCI currently has 16 doctors, including 13 permanent and three contractual staff under the National Health Mission (NHM). The institute has also appointed three cancer specialists, including a gynane onco surgeon, onco surgeon superspecialist, and head and neck onco surgeon.

Mizoram State Cancer Institute (MSCI)

MIZO PHOTOGRAPHERS' SOCIETY CELEBRATES 12TH RISING DAY

Lamtluang Online News: The Mizo Photographers' Society celebrated its 12th Rising Day on 4 December 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organisation's history. To commemorate the occasion, the society's members collectively donated Rs. 50,000 to the Poor Fund of the Cancer Hospital in Aizawl. This generous contribution demonstrates the society's commitment to giving back to the community and supporting worthy causes. The Mizo Photographers' Society is a prominent organisation that brings together professional and amateur photographers from across Mizoram, providing a platform for them to share their passion and expertise in photography.

ZOFEST 2024 CELEBRATED IN WEST PHAILENG

Lamtluang Online News: The Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) successfully hosted Zofest 2024 at Lalbuanga Sailo Run in West Phaileng, commencing on 3 November 2024. The event drew delegates from various states, including Mizoram and its neighbouring states, as well as from the USA. On 4 December 2024, Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma attended the second session of the programme, where he launched the Zofest Souvenir, Zawlbuk, and expressed his appreciation for MZP's efforts in promoting peace and unity among the Zo ethnic community.

The Chief Minister commended MZP for recognising him as a non-corrupt politician and acknowledged his role in bringing peace and harmony to the state during the Mizoram disturbance period. He expressed his delight in being part of MZP and his willingness to accept their invitations. Furthermore, the Chief Minister advised MZP leaders to collaborate closely with the government to bring about positive changes in the state.

This year's Zofest marked the seventh edition of the programme, with the theme "Hrui khat vuanin" (holding on to the one rope). The programme aimed to promote Zo culture and language, as well as to strengthen ties with other communities. Pu Lalthianghlima, MZP President, highlighted the significance of Zofest in promoting unity and harmony among the Zo people.

He noted that MZP has expanded its reach to Manipur, Assam, and Tripura, and has witnessed the positive impact of their efforts over the years. The programme was moderated by Pu C. Lalremruata, Vice President, MZP, and Evan. VL Hruaisanga offered the invocation. Pu Chinkhanmanga Thomte, General Secretary, presented the report.

The inaugural Zofest was held in Lamka in 2002, and this year's programme was attended by delegates from various states, including Mizoram and its neighbouring states, as well as from the USA. The programme focused on promoting Mizo culture and language, and strengthening ties with other communities. The MZP organises Zofest to promote unity and understanding among different Zo communities.

Zofest 2024 at West Phaileng