Press Releases

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.

CADC urges Govt. of Mizoram to introduce Science, Commerce at Govt. Kamalanagar HSS

Kamalanagar, April 24, 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council has urged the Govt. of Mizoram to introduce Science and Commerce streams at the Govt. Kamalanagar Higher Secondary School. The appeal was made during the two-day official visit of Dr. Vanlalthlana, Hon’ble Minister for School Education, to Kamalanagar on April 23 and 24, 2025.

In a memorandum submitted to the Hon’ble Minister, the CADC highlighted the absence of Science and Commerce streams at the school—the only government higher secondary institution in the entire CADC area. Currently, the school offers only the Humanities stream, thereby limiting academic choices and career prospects for the local students. The Council requested the Minister to take necessary steps for the inclusion of additional streams to ensure equitable access to higher secondary education for students in CADC and adjoining areas under LADC.

The memorandum also expressed concern over the acute shortage of teachers in schools across the CADC. It noted that many teachers who were initially appointed under the Samagra Shiksha scheme for Kamalanagar Block have been either posted or attached to offices outside the CADC. These appointees, being non-residents, were directly recruited from the head office and have shown reluctance to serve in the remote areas of CADC. As a result, some interior schools are reportedly being run by a single teacher.

Reiterating an earlier proposal, the CADC further appealed for the introduction of Mizo language as a subject in all schools within its jurisdiction. Acknowledging Mizo as the official language of the State, the memorandum stated that incorporating the language in the curriculum would help bridge communication gaps, foster cultural understanding, and promote inter-community harmony. It proposed the recruitment of 150 Mizo language teachers on a fixed pay basis of ₹15,000 per month, seeking a total monthly allocation of ₹22.50 lakh in addition to the annual budget of the CADC.

Dr. Vanlalthlana was received warmly by Dg. Montu Chakma, Executive Member and i/c CEM, CADC; Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma, MLA, 36-Tuichawng; along with other Executive Members, MDCs, and officials of the CADC. The Hon’ble Minister was accompanied by Pu Malsawmtluanga, Joint Secretary, School Education Department; Pu C. Lalthanzira, State Project Director, Samagra Shiksha; and Prof. Benjamin Lalrinsanga, State Nodal Officer (NEP), Higher & Technical Education.

As part of the visit, the Hon’ble Minister and his team toured several educational institutions in Kamalanagar and held interactions with local stakeholders.

CADC mourns the passing of Executive Member Dg. Sanjeev Chakma

Kamalanagar, April 10, 2025: Executive Member of the Chakma Autonomous District Council, Dg. Sanjeev Chakma, passed away on Tuesday at Trinity Hospital, Aizawl, after suffering a stroke. He was 44 years old.

A condolence gathering was held today at his residence in Kamalanagar, attended by CADC CEM, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, 36-Tuichawng MLA Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma, West Tuipui MLA Dgb. Prova Chakma, Executive Members, Members of District Council (MDCs), government officials, and representatives of all political parties of CADC.

Expressing profound grief over the sudden demise of Dg. Sanjeev Chakma, CEM Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma acknowledged his tireless efforts in shaping policies for public welfare and emphasized that his passing was an immense loss to the council and the entire Chakma community. He described him as a committed leader and a compassionate representative of the people of his constituency. He also assured the bereaved family that as per Rule 13 of the CADC (Salaries, Allowances, and Pension of Members) Rules, 2003, the spouse of the deceased MDC is entitled to pension and death gratuity benefits. The CADC will ensure that the family receives the due entitlements in accordance with the rules, he said.
Born on November 1, 1980, in Kamalanagar, Dg. Sanjeev Chakma pursued his early education in his hometown before continuing his studies in Shillong. He entered active electoral politics in 2013 when he contested the MDC General Election from Kamalanagar ‘S’ constituency as an independent candidate. Later, he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party and successfully contested the 2018 MDC General Election from Kamalanagar ‘W’ constituency, marking the beginning of his tenure as an elected representative. He served as an MDC from 2018 to 2023 and was re-elected in the 11th General Election to CADC. During his tenure, he held charge of multiple departments, including Primary School Education, Sports & Youth Services, Social Welfare, Horticulture, and Sericulture.

Dg. Sanjeev Chakma is survived by his wife, Dgb. Bichitra Chakma, three daughters, and one son. His mortal remains were cremated today at Kamalanagar. As a mark of respect, the CADC has declared 11th April (Friday) as a holiday for all CADC offices.

CADC seeks Centre’s support to overcome development challenges

Kamalanagar, April 9, 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council has sought the Central Government’s intervention to address critical infrastructural and financial challenges hindering its development during the visit of the Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Nityanand Rai, to the Council today.

The Minister, upon his arrival at Kamalanagar, was received at the Kamalanagar Helipad by the Chief Executive Member of CADC, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma; the local MLA, Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma; and the Deputy Commissioner of Lawngtlai, Shri Cheemala Siva Gopal Reddy, IAS.

He held discussions with the leaders and officials of the Council to assess developmental issues firsthand. Subsequently, he also interacted with representatives of local NGOs as well. During the meeting, the Council submitted a memorandum seeking urgent financial and infrastructural support to accelerate its development and enhance governance.

The CADC urged the Centre to expedite financial assistance for 47 development projects including road infrastructure, education, governance, skill development, and cultural preservation. It expressed concern over the inordinate delays in approvals, which have hampered the implementation of these crucial projects.

A critical issue raised was the rehabilitation of families displaced due to the Indo-Bangladesh border fencing, for which the CADC has sought ₹118.75 crores from the Centre. A proposal for this was submitted through the Government of Mizoram and is currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The CADC also highlighted acute financial constraints, particularly due to inadequate allocation of funds under salary head since the financial year 2021-2022. It reported a financial deficit of ₹5,470.05 lakhs in the last fiscal year (2024-2025), which had to be adjusted from the 2025-2026 budget. The Council further pointed out that CADC receives lower fund allocations compared to other ADCs, citing the State Finance Commission’s Report (Table 9.20), which details the 4th level of horizontal devolutions across the Autonomous District Councils of Mizoram.

It urged the Central Government for a one-time special package of ₹70 crores to overcome the current salary deficit. It cited disparities in fund allocation, the failure to carry forward revised estimates, and rising costs due to DA hikes as key factors exacerbating its fiscal instability.

The memorandum also outlined challenges such as poor road connectivity, low literacy rates (46.4% against the State’s literacy rate of 91.58%), lack of higher educational institutions, and inadequate healthcare facilities in the CADC. It reiterated that CADC remains the most backward ADC in the country.

With a BJP-led government in the CADC, the Council expressed optimism about aligning regional development with the national agenda of inclusive growth.

“The Chakma people have long aspired to equitable development. We urge the Central Government to support our efforts in transforming this neglected region,” stated the Chief Executive Member, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma.

CADC urges PWD Minister to improve road infrastructure

Kamalanagar, April 8, 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council has urged Pu Vanlalhlana, Hon’ble Minister of Public Works Department (PWD), Mizoram, to take urgent steps to improve road connectivity in the region. The proposal was made during the Minister’s visit to Kamalanagar today, where he was accompanied by Pu Lalfamkima, Deputy Speaker of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly, Pu Lalramliana, MLA, and Pu C. Ngunlianchunga, MLA, along with Er. H. Zoramliana, Engineer-in-Chief, and other senior officials of the state PWD.

The Hon’ble PWD Minister and visiting dignitaries were welcomed by Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, Chief Executive Member of CADC, Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma, MLA of 36-Tuichawng, other Executive Members, MDCs of CADC, and representatives of local NGOs. On behalf of CADC, the CEM submitted a memorandum to the PWD Minister, apprising him of the immense hardship faced by the people of CADC due to poor road infrastructure.

In its memorandum, CADC highlighted that the lack of all-weather roads has severely affected connectivity, leaving most of the villages inaccessible, particularly during the monsoon season. While some villages have access to metalled and PCC roads, the absence of bridges results in several villages remaining cut off from its headquarters, Kamalanagar, during floods. Given that CADC is a low-lying area situated near the Tuichawng and Thega rivers, flooding is a recurring issue, making bridges crucial for maintaining connectivity. The memorandum also pointed out that most roads constructed under various schemes in CADC were built without bridges, rendering them ineffective in ensuring year-round transport.

To address these challenges, CADC urged the PWD Minister to take immediate steps to construct new roads connecting remote villages and develop essential bridges within towns and villages, including bridges over the Tuichawng River to facilitate connectivity with neighbouring villages in the Lai Autonomous District Council. The memorandum also sought the establishment of a truck terminal and a bus terminal in Kamalanagar.

CADC Launches Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme and SVAMITVA Schemes

Kamalanagar, March 27, 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) today marked a significant milestone with the official launch of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) and the Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) schemes. The launch ceremony was held at the Conference Hall of the CADC Rest House.

Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, Hon’ble Chief Executive Member (CEM), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by esteemed dignitaries including Dg. Doymoy Daveng Chakma, Adviser to CEM, Dg. Supan Chakma, Executive Member i/c LAD and Heads of various departments along with the staff.

The program commenced with a welcome address delivered by Dg. Bipin Bihari Chakma, Senior Revenue & Settlement Officer. Dg. Manabendra Chakma, Nodal Officer of DILRMP for CADC, provided a detailed explanation of the two pivotal schemes.

In his address, CEM Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma emphasized the importance of employee upskilling and adherence to due processes in fulfilling their duties. He acknowledged the challenging working conditions faced by the employees, including cramped workspaces and inadequate office infrastructure. “Although our Executive Committee has been in office for a brief period, we are committed to addressing these infrastructure issues,” he assured.

The CEM highlighted the transformative potential of the DILRMP and SVAMITVA schemes for the people of CADC. He urged the employees, particularly those in the Land Revenue and Settlement (LRS) Department, to dedicate their best efforts towards ensuring the success of these and future initiatives.

Dg. Doymoy Daveng Chakma, Adviser to CEM, congratulated the LRS Department for launching the implementation of the schemes in CADC. He underscored the numerous benefits that these schemes will bring to the citizens of the region.

The launch of these programs signifies a major step forward in modernizing land records and empowering rural communities within the Chakma Autonomous District Council.

Dg. Lakkhan Chakma Elected as Chairman of CADC

Kamalanagar, 25 March 2025: The Chakma Autonomous District Council today elected Dg. Lakkhan Chakma, Member of District Council from 17-Jaruldubosora Constituency, as the new Chairman of the 11th CADC during a session presided over by the Deputy Chairman, Dg. Sundor Muni Chakma. The election was held in accordance with the notification issued by the Governor of Mizoram following the resignation of the former Chairman, Dg. Mohan Chakma.

Prior to the voting, House Leader and Chief Executive Member, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, addressed the House, urging members to ensure the smooth and proper conduct of the election as per due procedure. He also expressed his gratitude to the State Election Commission for successfully conducting the recently concluded General Elections to the Village Councils in CADC, which were conducted peacefully without any untoward incidents.

The election for the post of the Chairman was contested between Dg. Lakkhan Chakma of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Dg. Hiranand Tongchangya of the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), the only two candidates to file nominations. In the voting, Dg. Lakkhan Chakma secured 11 votes, while Dg. Hiranand Tongchangya secured 4 votes.

Assuming charge as the new Chairman, Dg. Lakkhan Chakma expressed his gratitude to the people of CADC for their mandate, as well as the house members for their support and confidence which enabled his election to the post. He expressed his commitment to upholding democratic values, ensuring neutrality, and maintaining impartiality in the house.

With the election having been successfully conducted, the session was prorogued.

CADC Passes Town Committees Act in Special Session

Kamalanagar, 28th February 2025: The 11th Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) held a special session today at the CADC Session Hall, during which the Chakma Autonomous District Council (Town Committees) Act, 2023 was discussed and passed. The session was summoned by Dg. Sundor Muni Chakma, Deputy Chairman, following a requisition by 14 elected members of the Council.

Presiding over the session, the Deputy Chairman informed the House about the resignation of Dg. Mohan Chakma from the office of Chairman on 25th February 2025. Since the session was summoned on short notice, no questions were received for discussion during Question Hour.

The report of the Select Committee on the Chakma Autonomous District Council (Town Committees) Act, 2023 was placed before the House. The Act was initially introduced during the 3rd sitting of the Monsoon Session of CADC on 18th August 2023. It was then subsequently referred to a Select Committee for further review and necessary modification. The revised bill was submitted to the Chairman, CADC, on 21st February 2025.

Initiating the discussion, House Leader Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, Chief Executive Member (CEM), moved the motion for the passage of the Act. He also expressed his gratitude to Dg. Mohan Chakma, terming his resignation from the post of Chairman as a mark of his commitment to upholding democratic principles, and commended him for his wisdom, understanding, and democratic approach.

The motion faced strong opposition from members of the opposition benches. Dg. Kali Kumar Tongchangya and Dg. Hiranand Tongchangya  objected to the manner in which the special session was summoned, questioned the neutrality and integrity of the Deputy Chairman in conducting the proceedings and asserted that it was the responsibility of the mover of the bill to seek support for its passage, rather than the presiding authority. Following a heated discussion, both the coucillors staged a walkout in protest.

The bill having been extensively discussed was put to vote and was passed unanimously by the remaining members of the House. With no further business to transact, the special session was prorogued.

Executive Members of 11th CADC Sworn-in

Kamalanagar, 27th February 2025: Seven newly appointed Executive Members of the 11th Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) took the oath of office today at a swearing-in ceremony held in Kamalanagar. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Pu H. Zonunmawia, MCS, Project Director, DRDO, Lawngtlai.

The newly sworn-in Executive Members are Dg. Kalasoga Chakma from the 13-Vaseitlang MDC Constituency, Dg. Supan Chakma from the 12-Mainabapsora MDC Constituency, Dg. Montu Chakma from the 19-Devasora (S) MDC Constituency, Dg. Amit Bayan Chakma from the 10-Mondirasora MDC Constituency, Dg. Ananta Bikash Chakma from the 14-Longpuighat MDC Constituency, Dg. Sanjib Chakma from the 2-Borapansury-II MDC Constituency, and Dg. Sanjeev Chakma from the 7-Kamalanagar (W) MDC Constituency.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Executive Member, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, reiterated his Executive Committee’s commitment to the progress and welfare of CADC. He remarked, “Today marks an important milestone as seven of my colleagues take the oath of office together. With their support, I am confident that we will work with complete dedication to accelerate the development of CADC.”

He further stated, “For over two decades, we have aspired for a BJP-led government in CADC, believing it would usher in greater progress and opportunities. Now that this vision has materialized, my colleagues in the 11th CADC and I are resolute in our efforts to steer CADC towards growth and prosperity. Our government will uphold the guiding principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas’—ensuring inclusive development and shared progress. With unity and support of our people, we will work towards realizing this vision.”

He also urged all sections of the community to contribute in their own capacities and support the Executive Committee in its endeavor to advance the collective progress of CADC.

The formation of the new Executive Committee of CADC was necessitated following the passage of a no-confidence motion against the former Chief Executive Member, Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma, on 11th December 2024, during the Winter Session of CADC, leading to the dissolution of the previous Executive Committee. Subsequently, the Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram appointed Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma as the new Chief Executive Member on 28th January 2025. The new Executive Members were appointed with effect from 17th February 2025. With their swearing-in today, the Executive Committee of CADC is now fully constituted.

CADC seeks enhanced fund allocation from 16th Finance Commission for infrastructural development

Kamalanagar, 26th February 2025: A delegation from the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) led by Hon’ble Chief Executive Member Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma met with Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman, and other members of the 16th Finance Commission in Aizawl on Monday during its four-day visit to Mizoram. The delegation, which included Hon’ble MLA Dg. Rasik Mohan Chakma, Senior Finance & Accounts Officer Dg. Buddhangkur Chakma, and Planning & Development Officer Dg. Prabin Chakma, submitted a representation seeking enhanced financial allocation to bridge the infrastructural deficit within CADC.

During the meeting, the delegation gave a detailed presentation on the socio-economic challenges faced by CADC, citing its backwardness including lower literacy rate and inadequate infrastructure. It was pointed out that despite being categorised as an “Excluded Area” and outside the purview of Part IX and Part IXA of the Constitution, CADC has been receiving funds under two categories—Rural Local Body Grants to Village Councils and Excluded Area Grants. However, the delegation emphasized that the inconsistency and irregularity in the Excluded Area Grants have hampered the implementation of major infrastructure projects, particularly those related to administrative development.

The delegation urged the Finance Commission to continue providing Excluded Area Grants on a regular basis to address the infrastructural deficit until corrective legislative measures are undertaken by the Government of India to enhance the financial resources of Autonomous District Councils. It was further emphasised that ADCs and Tribal Areas under the Sixth Schedule should receive special consideration while determining grants under the Central Finance Commission, given their unique socio-economic challenges.

The representation also underscored the need for special financial provisions under Article 275(1) of the Indian Constitution to raise the level of administration in Sixth Schedule Areas. Drawing parallels to the separate treatment accorded to the Sixth Schedule Areas in Assam under clause (a) of Article 275(1), the delegation argued that similar treatment should be extended to ADCs in Mizoram to ensure equitable development. They pointed out that despite the Finance Commission’s approach of treating ADCs as two tiers Local Body Institutions —with Autonomous District Council as Zilla Panchayat and Village Councils as Gram panchayats—CADC has not received any share of grants allocated to Zilla Panchayats during the entire period of the 15th Finance Commission. They also urged the Commission to recommend for additional fund provision for CADC, in addition to the normal grants under the Excluded Area Grants, to address specific problems, as was done under the 13th Finance Commission.

Some of the projects proposed under the 16th Finance Commission include the completion of the New Secretariat Building at Kamalanagar, the construction of the Chief Executive Member’s Office Building, the establishment of Village Council Court Buildings, construction of Electric Crematorium and an ITI Building, construction of MDC Hostels and Court Buildings, among others.