Rural Development & Administration Department Minister Prof. Lalnilawma Distributes Books for New Libraries

Aizawl, Sept 2025: Today, Rural Development & Administration Department Minister Prof. Lalnilawma distributed books to be placed in libraries under the “Establishment of New Library in Mizoram Project” for different villages. The book distribution function was held at the DRDO Office, Aizawl, and was presided over by Pu R. Zarzosanga, Commissioner & Secretary, Rural Development & Administration Department.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said this project is one of the important initiatives taken up under Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Part-VII to improve village infrastructure. He explained that under the leadership of the Mizoram Chief Minister, the state has received financial assistance from the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, to establish 273 new libraries across various villages. The Rural Development & Administration Department has been designated as the nodal department. The project aims to encourage reading and learning among youth and children, which is vital for adapting to the fast-changing global environment.

Under the project, 229 new library buildings will be constructed, and 44 existing buildings will be renovated. Each library will be equipped with bookshelves, reading tables, chairs, computer sets with UPS, librarian desks, 3-in-1 printers, LED TVs with two-way communication, internet connection, 3KVA power backup with battery stand, and low-height racks for children.

Books will be procured from the National Book Trust (NBT) and the open market. A budget of ₹2,81,190 has been earmarked for this purpose, with each library receiving 1,030 books from NBT and around 358 from the open market.

In the first phase, the books distributed today will be delivered to 69 villages across Mizoram.