PWD Minister Graces Lily Veng Cultural & Drama Club Silver Jubilee Celebration

Aizawl : The Lily Veng Cultural & Drama Club (LCDC) marked its 25th anniversary (Silver Jubilee) at the Chaltlang Tourist Lodge today. The celebration was honored by the presence of PWD Minister Pu Vanlalhlana, who was the chief guest.

In his speech, Minister Pu Vanlalhlana expressed his delight in joining the celebration and congratulated the LCDC on reaching this significant milestone. He praised the club’s dedication and commitment to promoting Mizo culture, saying that the club’s role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage is commendable. He emphasized that culture is not just about preserving the past but also about guiding present and future generations.

He highlighted that in September, the Mizoram government launched its flagship program, the Bana Kaih Policy, aiming for its successful implementation. Various initiatives will be introduced to benefit young people, with financial assistance of up to ₹50 lakhs. Under the Year of Consolidation initiative, the government will act as a guarantor for loans, with the current financial year implementing it on a pilot basis.

The Minister also encouraged LCDC members to continue their efforts in promoting Mizo culture. He suggested utilizing the Ministry of Culture’s Scheme of Financial Assistance for Promotion of Art & Culture to secure grants for cultural activities. He urged members to raise awareness on important social issues, such as protecting cultural identity, HIV/AIDS awareness, substance abuse, and promoting positive social values.

Advisor Pu Lalzuitluanga of LCDC delivered a speech, thanking everyone for joining the celebration and appreciating the club’s continuous dedication to cultural preservation. He acknowledged the blessings that the club has received through its consistent efforts.

LCDC, established in 1999, is dedicated to three core missions:

1. Preservation and promotion of Mizo culture.
2. Development of drama and theater arts.
3. Guiding youth toward a positive and constructive lifestyle.

During the event, the club’s history, activities, and various cultural achievements were showcased, including traditional Mizo storytelling, filmmaking, dance performances, and other creative endeavors.

The Silver Jubilee celebration concluded with a speech by Dr. H. Lalhmachhuana, LCDC President, who expressed gratitude for the club’s growth and accomplishments over the years. Vice President Pu Lalhunruata also delivered a vote of thanks.

General Secretary Nl. Priscilla Lallawmsangi presented a report detailing the club’s milestones, including affiliations with the Mizoram Drama Organisation (MIDO) in 2003 and recognition by the Art & Culture Department, Govt. of Mizoram, in 2005. The club achieved recognition as a Grade A artist group in 2008 under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s Song and Drama Division, and became an empanelled artist group with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in 2010.

To date, LCDC has performed in various locations, including twice abroad, 73 times in different regions of India, 70 times within Mizoram, and 199 times locally in Vengchhung. The club has approximately 66 active members and over 50 club artists from various villages and towns. They have trained around 300 children and young people in cultural arts and drama.

The Silver Jubilee celebration featured traditional songs, dances, and a community dinner in the evening. The event was attended by local leaders, including representatives from the Minister’s office, the Local Council, YMA, MUP, MHIP, and former club leaders, who presented gifts to commemorate the Jubilee.