MJA Lunglei District Felicitates and Honours Home Minister Pu K. Sapdanga

Lunglei, Aug 2025:The Mizoram Journalists’ Association (MJA) Lunglei District on Friday organized a felicitation and thanksgiving programme in honour of Mizoram’s Home Minister, Pu K. Sapdanga — former President of MJA General Headquarters and a prominent journalist — at the Lunglei Press Club Conference Hall.

The event was graced by Lunglei West MLA Pu T. Lalhlimpuia, Lunglei Municipal Council (LMC) Chairman Pu Lalzuithanga, and Vice Chairman Pu K. Lalrinawma. Presided over by MJA Lunglei District President Pu H. Lalthansanga, the function was attended by 17 MJA members. A souvenir publication and a collection of photographs highlighting the Minister’s journalistic journey were also released.

In his speech, Minister Pu K. Sapdanga emphasized that the role of journalists in society can never be undermined. He said journalism serves as a vital service to both the state and its people through the gathering and dissemination of news. Acknowledging the MJA as a unifying platform for Mizoram’s journalists, he urged members to continue valuing the Association. He highlighted various initiatives taken by the government for journalists’ welfare, including the Journalist Insurance Scheme, family compensation for journalists who die on duty, and the creation of pensions — describing them as significant steps. He added that journalists’ work, carried out with sharp eyes, ears, and minds, provides invaluable service to the public and should be done with dedication and sincerity.

District Treasurer Pu K. Lalrinpuia conducted the proceedings while Secretary Pu Thanghmingliana Renthlei presented the report. President Pu H. Lalthansanga recalled Minister Sapdanga’s tenure as MJA General HQ President (2006–2010), when district-level associations across Mizoram formally became part of the MJA. He noted that under his leadership, the Lunglei Press Club was formed, and later he went on to become the first from Lunglei District to serve as General HQ President, MLA, and now Cabinet Minister.

During the programme, Minister Sapdanga also launched the news website Zunzam News (zunzamnews.blogspot.com). District MJA Vice President Pu Lianchama Chhangte expressed words of gratitude.

MLA Pu T. Lalhlimpuia remarked that journalists are essential instruments in shaping public opinion and urged them to use their knowledge responsibly for the state’s progress. He stressed the importance of balanced reporting and constructive criticism to strengthen governance and society.

In a message, the Lunglei MJA stated:
“During your tenure as MJA President (2006–2010), journalists across Mizoram’s districts came under one umbrella. This unity was a result of your leadership and commitment, which we deeply cherish. Now, with your election as MLA in 2023 and your position as Cabinet Minister, we are truly proud. We believe you will continue to serve the state and its people with dedication.”

A photograph from December 1, 2006, showing Pu K. Sapdanga joining the Mizoram Journalists’ Association as General HQ President, along with 29 members of the Lunglei Journalists’ Association, was also displayed during the event.