Press Releases

CADC Observes 79th Indian Independence Day

Kamalanagar, 15 August 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) observed the 79th Independence Day of India with programmes at the CADC Secretariat in Kamalanagar, Borapansury, the Chakma House Complex in Aizawl, and other local venues. The events were attended by Members of District Council (MDCs), officials, and community leaders.

At the CADC Secretariat, the National Flag was hoisted by Shri Sundor Muni Chakma, Deputy Chairman, CADC, as Chief Guest. The programme was attended by MDCs, former councillors, CADC officials, and dignitaries.

In his address, Shri Sundor Muni Chakma extended greetings to the people of CADC and paid tribute to the freedom fighters of India’s independence movement. He stated that Independence Day is both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of responsibility, reaffirming the commitment to uphold democracy, unity, and progress. He highlighted recent achievements of CADC in cultural preservation, livelihood promotion, land governance, environmental conservation, fisheries, and infrastructure development. These included plantation drives, distribution of agricultural inputs, land digitisation, and completion of projects such as a student hostel at Aizawl Chakma House and renovation of the CADC Secretariat. He concluded by calling for collective efforts towards progress in education, economic growth, and social development with equal opportunities for all.

The District Administration also organised a programme at the Kamalanagar Football Playground, with Shri Lalnunpuia Renthlei, MCS, SDO (Civil) & BDO, Chawngte, as Chief Guest. He urged citizens to value freedom as both a legacy and a duty, encouraging youth to contribute to national progress. He highlighted developmental works within Chawngte Sub-Division under various schemes such as PMAY-G, MzSRLM, MGNREGA, healthcare improvements at CHC Chawngte, rural water supply, road upgrades, and new Anganwadi Centres.

Eighteen contingents participated in the march past, in which the Government Kamalanagar College NCC Unit was adjudged the best. Cultural performances were presented by various educational institutions, and gifts were distributed to patients at CHC Chawngte.

In Borapansury, Shri Sanjib Chakma, Hon’ble MDC, hoisted the National Flag as Chief Guest. At the Chakma House Complex in Aizawl, a celebration programme was organized for the first time, with Shri Supreme Raj Chakma, Hon’ble MDC, unfurling the National Flag and addressing the gathering.

No. 28/2025-26

Shri Dinesh Moy Chakma takes Oath as MDC of CADC

Kamalanagar, 13 August 2025: Shri Dinesh Moy Chakma was today administered Oath or Affirmation as a Member of District Council (MDC) representing the 7-Kamalanagar West MDC Constituency of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC).

The Oath or Affirmation was administered by the Court President & Recorder, CADC, in accordance with Rule 37(2) of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (Constitution, Conduct of Business, etc.) Rules, 2002 at a special ceremony organised for the purpose. The Oath-taking ceremony took place in the CADC Rest House Conference Hall, Kamalanagar, where he pledged to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established, and to discharge his duties in accordance with the Constitution and the law. The ceremony was attended by Members of District Council, officials of CADC, and other invitees.

He was elected in the recently concluded by-election to the constituency held on 6th August, 2025 which was necessitated by the unfortunate demise of the sitting MDC Dg. Sanjeev Chakma on 8th April 2025.

NCST Member Nirupam Chakma undertakes official tour of CADC villages to assess developmental needs

Kamalanagar, 12 August 2025: Shri Nirupam Chakma, Hon’ble Member, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), accompanied by Shri Dilip Kanti Chakma, Legal Consultant, NCST, conducted an official tour to various villages under the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) to assess developmental requirements and welfare-related issues concerning the tribal community.

The Hon’ble Member visited Jamersury, Mandirosora, Ajasora, Golasury, and Longpuighat villages, where he held meetings with Village Council members, NGO representatives, and community leaders to hear their concerns. He inspected schools, health facilities, and community infrastructure, observing issues such as shortage of classrooms, non-functional toilets, lack of water supply, poor approach roads, inadequate medical facilities, absence of hostels, and issues related to pre-matric scholarship. He travelled to these villages by motorboats, as the PMGSY roads connecting them are not usable during the rainy season.

The itinerary also included visits to AbhayaDāna Forest Monastery and Huji Mawnaw Vihar, where he attended Buddha Puja and interacted with the resident monks and management committees. The Hon’ble Member assured that the issues observed would be taken up with the concerned authorities for necessary follow-up.

Dinesh Moy Chakma of ZPM Wins By-Election to 7-Kamalanagar ‘W’ MDC Constituency

Kamalanagar, 8 August 2025: Shri Dinesh Moy Chakma of the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) has been elected as Member of District Council (MDC) from the 7-Kamalanagar ‘W’ Constituency of the Chakma Autonomous District Council in the by-election held on 6th August 2025. He secured 724 votes, winning by a narrow margin of 9 votes over his closest rival Shri Joydeep Chakma of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who garnered 715 votes. The counting of votes was conducted today, the 8 August 2025, at Lawngtlai.

The by-election was necessitated following the unfortunate demise of the sitting MDC, Shri Sanjeev Chakma of the BJP on 8th April, 2025, which resulted in a vacancy in the 7-Kamalanagar ‘W’ Constituency. Subsequently, on 24th June 2025, the Governor of Mizoram ordered a by-election to the constituency to elect a new member. The contest saw four candidates in the fray, representing Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mizo National Front (MNF), and Indian National Congress (INC).

Election Results:

Sl. No.Candidate NamePartyVotes Secured
1Shri Dinesh Moy ChakmaZoram People’s Movement (ZPM)724
2Shri Joydeep ChakmaBharatiya Janata Party (BJP)715
3Shri Rupayan ChakmaMizo National Front (MNF)74
4Smt. Kalpana ChakmaIndian National Congress (INC)21
 NOTA—3

NIRD&PR-NERC Director Visits CADC; Holds Meeting Officials

Kamalanagar, 22 July 2025: Dr. R. Murugesan, Director of the National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR), North Eastern Regional Centre (NERC), Guwahati, visited Kamalanagar, the headquarters of the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), on 20th July 2025. During his visit, he held a consultative meeting with officials of the CADC, which was also attended by senior leaders, including MLA Shri Rasik Mohan Chakma.

The meeting included a detailed interaction during which the CADC presented an overview of its administrative structure, achievements, and challenges through a PowerPoint presentation. Particular emphasis was laid on the Council’s limited financial autonomy and its dependence on the State Government for essential services such as electricity, primary healthcare, and other civic necessities.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rasik Mohan Chakma highlighted the chronic issues faced by the CADC owing to the lack of devolution of critical subjects to the Council. He reiterated that CADC remains heavily reliant on Central Government schemes and lacks the authority to directly submit project proposals under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS). He stated that NIRD&PR, being the nodal institute for decentralized governance, can play a crucial role in advocating for policy changes. Accordingly, he urged the Director to extend institutional support and facilitate appropriate policy interventions, including the special mention of ADCs in CSS guidelines.

Dr. Murugesan responded positively, assuring that he would extend all possible support to the CADC, including recommending feasible interventions and providing capacity-building support. The CADC expressed its sincere appreciation for his visit and looked forward to continued institutional engagement from NIRD&PR.

No.24/2025-2026

CADC delegation conducts exposure visits of SELCO Foundation Units in Aizawl

Kamalanagar, 16 June 2025: In continuation of the awareness programme on livelihood enhancement through renewable energy-driven solution held last month at Kamalanagar, a delegation from the Chakma Autonomous District Council led by Dg. Santosh Chakma, (DCIO & Nodal Officer), visited the SELCO Foundation office in Aizawl on 12–13 June 2025 to explore sustainable energy solutions and livelihood opportunities for potential implementation in the CADC area.

They were accompanied by SELCO’s representatives, Dg. F. Lalawmpuia, Field Coordinator, and Dgb. Usma Chakma, Project Manager, during their site visit.

The delegation visited a solar dryer unit in Chawlhmun, a solar tailoring unit at Bethlehem, solar-powered agro-processing units along Lengpui Road, and various energy-efficient infrastructure at Lengpui Airport.

A briefing session was held earlier today in the office chamber of the Executive Secretary, CADC where it was proposed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) be signed between CADC and SELCO Foundation to initiate collaborative efforts in implementing SELCO’s various programmes in CADC area.

CADC Executive Committee removed in No-Confidence Motion

Kamalanagar, 16 June 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council, in a Special Session held today at the CADC Session Hall, Kamalanagar, passed a No-Confidence Motion against the incumbent Executive Committee led by the Chief Executive Member, Shri Molin Kumar Chakma. The session was presided over by the Chairman of the Council, Shri Lakkhan Chakma.

The motion was moved by Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) member and elected MDC from 15-Rengkashya Constituency, Shri Doymoy Daveng Chakma, citing the CEM’s loss of the confidence of the majority members of the House as the reason necessitating a change in leadership.

The motion was subsequently taken up for discussion, during which several members participated, and was then put to vote. Out of the 17 elected members present and voting, 15 voted in favour of the motion, 1 voted against it, and the lone MNF MDC, Shri Rasik Mohan Chakma, abstained from voting. With the motion receiving a clear majority, it was declared passed. The Special Session was thereafter declared prorogued.

CADC partners with SELCO for renewable-driven livelihood solutions

Kamalanagar, 16 May 2025: An awareness meeting on livelihood enhancement through renewable energy-driven solutions was held at the CADC Rest House, Kamalanagar, on 16th May 2025. The programme was jointly organized by the Chakma Autonomous District Council and SELCO Foundation with the objective of promoting sustainable and renewable-based interventions to support livelihoods within CADC.

Dg. Montu Chakma, Executive Member and in-charge Chief Executive Member, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. The meeting was chaired by Dg. Pronit Bikash Chakma, Executive Secretary, CADC. Among the notable attendees were Dg. Jagadish Chakma, District Council Agriculture Officer; Dg. Dayamoy Dhammei, District Council Horticulture Officer; Dg. Santosh Chakma, District Council Industry Officer; and representatives from SELCO Foundation and Waste Solution Mizoram (WSM).

During the meeting, various strategies were deliberated upon to integrate renewable energy solutions with livelihood generation activities. It was proposed that CADC would initially earmark an amount of ₹15.00 lakh as its share for the implementation of the programme during the first quarter of the financial year 2025–26, with rest of the contribution to be provided by SELCO Foundation. The initiative will support beneficiaries in areas such as procurement of sugarcane juicer machines, development of handloom and textiles, installation of solar-powered lighting with fans for petty shops, and distribution of solar sprayers for agricultural use.

The programme is envisaged to be implemented on a cluster basis with quarterly targets, ensuring planned and phased roll-out. The Planning and Development Department of CADC will undertake need assessments in the identified areas and will also be responsible for monitoring the implementation process in coordination with the partner organizations.

Chakma Council raises concerns over fund shortfall, neglected projects before Governor

Kamalanagar, 15 May, 2025: A delegation of the Chakma Autonomous District Council, led by Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, Chief Executive Member, called on the Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, at Raj Bhavan yesterday, seeking intervention on critical issues pertaining to the Council.

The delegation included Dg. Lakkhan Chakma, Chairman; Dg. Sanjib Chakma, Executive Member; and Dg. Durjya Dhan Chakma, former CEM and District BJP President. They were accompanied by the State BJP President, Pu Vanlalhmuaka.

During the meeting, they apprised the Governor of a serious financial crisis caused by a continued shortfall in salary fund allocation. Despite recommendations of the 2nd Mizoram State Finance Commission, which proposed that CADC receive 25.04% of the total share earmarked for Autonomous District Councils, actual allocations have consistently fallen short. This has resulted in a salary deficit since December last year. It was further clarified that the staff strength of CADC (1,429) remains lower than that of MADC (1,789) and LADC (1,927), refuting the perception of overstaffing.

Concern was also raised over the exclusion of 33 development proposals submitted by CADC last year from the State Government’s priority list. These proposals, aimed at improving essential sectors such as education, roads, and public utilities, have not been forwarded to the concerned Central Ministries under schemes like the 16th Finance Commission, NESIDS, PMJVK, and Article 275(1). It was further pointed out that CADC continues to lag behind in overall development, with a literacy rate of only 46.4%, compared to the state average of over 91.58%.

The Governor was also briefed on the pending sanction of ₹118.75 crore under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP). The delegation highlighted the plight of border villages in CADC, where residents continue to suffer due to displacement caused by the Indo-Bangla border fencing and long-standing under-development.

Other matters raised included the long-pending assent to several important Bills passed by the District Council, and difficulties faced by residents due to non-functional ATMs and the absence of bank branches at Longpuighat and Borapansury.

The Hon’ble Governor assured the delegation that the issues raised would be given due attention and taken up with the appropriate authorities.

NCST Full Commission Graces 53rd CADC Day

Kamalanagar, 29 April 2025: The full Commission of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), Government of India, visited the Chakma Autonomous District Council today, adding special significance to the celebration of the Council’s 53rd Day. This marks the first-ever visit of the full NCST Commission to the CADC.

The NCST delegation, led by Hon’ble Chairperson Shri Antar Singh Arya, comprised Hon’ble Members Shri Nirupam Chakma, Shri Jatothu Hussain, and Smt. Asha Lakra. Upon arrival at Kamalanagar, the delegation was accorded a warm and traditional welcome, featuring Chakma cultural performances and customary hospitality.

The 53rd CADC Day celebration commenced in the morning at the CADC Secretariat Complex with a ceremonial programme. Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, Hon’ble Chief Executive Member, hoisted the Indian National Flag alongside the CADC Flag in the presence of Council Members, former leaders, and officials. Floral tributes were offered in honour of the visionary leaders who spearheaded the autonomy movement of the Chakmas in Mizoram.

The theme for this year’s celebration was “Youth Empowerment,” under which a special Yuva Samvad (Dialogue with the Youth) session was organised. The session witnessed enthusiastic participation from youth leaders.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Chairperson Shri Antar Singh Arya remarked, “Today is not only a historic day for the Chakma community but also a moment that reflects the victory of our cultural, social, and political struggles.”

He further stated, “The NCST remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights of tribal communities and advancing their welfare. As a Commission, we stand with you to ensure your voice is heard at the highest levels and that appropriate measures are taken to promote cultural, economic, and social development.” He added that the concerns of the Chakma community have been incorporated into the NCST’s Annual Report submitted to the Hon’ble President of India for consideration by the Union Government.

In a remarkable announcement, Shri Antar Singh Arya offered a promising opportunity for Chakma youths. He informed that the NCST has decided to sponsor 50 Chakma youths (25 boys and 25 girls) for a one-year training programme in merchant naval course during the current academic session, with assured placement upon successful completion. Discussions have already been held with the National Shipping Corporation in this regard. He assured that the programme would continue annually, with a long-term target of benefiting up to 500 Chakma youths under the initiative.

On behalf of the CADC, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma submitted a memorandum to the NCST delegation, outlining the major developmental priorities of the region. The demands included improvement of road connectivity, establishment of educational institutions, and enhancement of healthcare infrastructure. The Hon’ble Chairperson assured that the NCST would actively take up the matters with the concerned authorities.

The Chakma Autonomous District Council was formed on 29th April 1972 through the trifurcation of the erstwhile Pawi-Lakher Regional Council (PLRC). It was created under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India to safeguard and promote the unique ethnic and cultural identity of the Chakmas of Mizoram. However, a significant section of the Chakma population residing in the northwestern region of the state still remains outside its jurisdiction.