Lok Bhavan Hosts Joint Foundation Day Celebration For Mizoram And Arunachal Pradesh

Aizawl, February, 2026: Under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative, Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), today graced the joint celebration of the Foundation Day of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh at the Durbar Hall, Lok Bhavan in Aizawl.

In his address, Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh conveyed warm greetings and good wishes to the people of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh on their Foundation Day. He acknowledged the remarkable progress made by both states since they attained full statehood. Although endowed with rich biodiversity and a vibrant tribal heritage, the two states had long faced developmental challenges due to difficult geography and other factors. In recent years, however, both Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh have recorded noticeable advancement in several areas. The Governor highlighted the important role of the younger generation and expressed the hope that continued cooperation, improved connectivity, and progress across various sectors would help integrate these states more fully into the broader national goal of Viksit Bharat @2047.

The Governor also noted the strategic location of both states along India’s international borders and their relevance to the Act East Policy. Referring to the recent opening of the Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line, he said the new rail link has improved internal connectivity in Mizoram and contributed to growth in tourism and economic activity. The Governor recalled that Mizoram is recognised as India’s first fully literate state and has been designated the “Ginger Capital of India” in view of its significant ginger production. He described Arunachal Pradesh as the “Land of the Rising Sun” and pointed to its considerable hydropower potential as well as its growing reputation in kiwi fruit cultivation.

The event was presided by Pi Lalhruaitluangi, Additional Private Secretary to the Governor, who outlined the purpose of the programme. A video message from Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM (Retd), was screened for the attendees. Dr. Jenifer Lalbiakdiki, Principal of Government T. Romana College, and Ms Api Hiba, a scholar from Mizoram University and President of the Arunachal Student Union, Mizoram, delivered brief presentations on the history and significance of both states. 

A captivating tourism video showcasing the heritage and attractions of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh was screened, followed by vibrant cultural performances featuring traditional Mizo and Arunachali dances presented by students from the Regional Institute of Paramedical and Nursing Sciences (RIPANS) and Government T. Romana College, adding richness and vibrancy to the occasion. The programme concluded with the Governor interacting informally with participants at the Lok Bhavan’s Upper Lawn, fostering a joyful and engaging atmosphere.

Under the North-East Areas (Reorganisation) Act, 1971, Mizoram was established as a Union Territory in 1972. It attained full statehood as India’s 23rd state through the 53rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1986, effective from February 20, 1987. Arunachal Pradesh, formerly known as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA), was reorganized as a Union Territory in 1972. It became India’s 24th state on February 20, 1987, following the 55th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1986.

The ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ programme, launched by the Government of India, seeks to promote stronger bonds and mutual understanding among the diverse peoples, cultures, and traditions of India’s States and Union Territories. As part of this initiative, Lok Bhavan in Mizoram has been organizing Foundation Day celebrations for various paired States and UTs since June 2023, under the leadership of the Governor.