Revenue Minister Visits Thenzawl SDO (Civil) Office, Announces Expansion of Revenue Powers

January, 2026 : In a significant step towards strengthening revenue administration at the sub-divisional level, Revenue Minister Pu B. Lalchhanzova visited the Office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Thenzawl, on 23rd January, 2026. The visit was aimed at reviewing the expansion of revenue powers to Civil Sub-Divisions. He was accompanied by Revenue Secretary Pu Vanlalmawia, Serchhip Deputy Commissioner Pu Paul L. Khuma, and other senior officials.

During the visit, the Revenue Minister stated that comprehensive administrative reforms are being initiated beginning from the Deputy Commissioner level, with a focus on bringing all administrative wings under a streamlined revenue framework. He expressed confidence that these reforms would enhance efficiency and ensure people-friendly governance.

Pu B Lalchhanzova informed that all revenue powers currently vested in the Settlement Officer at the district level will now be exercised by the SDO (Civil) within their respective jurisdictions. This move is expected to significantly reduce hardships faced by the public. He further announced that the SDO (Civil), Thenzawl, will also be entrusted with the responsibilities of the Sub-Registrar’s Office. The initiative, to be launched initially in Vairengte and Thenzawl, will eventually be extended to all Civil Sub-Divisions across Mizoram.

The Minister also acknowledged that while several improvements have already been made in the Revenue Department, many challenges remain. He highlighted issues such as staff shortages, workflow inefficiencies, and the need for further structural reforms, and assured that these concerns would be addressed during the government’s current tenure.

Revenue Secretary Pu Vanlalmawia, while addressing the gathering, explained that the reform process began at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. He stated that Settlement Officers have been redesignated as Assistant Commissioners (Revenue), with the Deputy Commissioner serving as the apex authority in revenue matters at the district level. SDOs (Civil) have also been assigned the additional responsibility of serving as Assistant Commissioners (Revenue) within their respective Sub-Divisions. This change will enable citizens to access services related to stamp and registration, revenue courts, land surveys, and settlements within their own Sub-Divisions, eliminating the need to travel to district headquarters.

Revenue Director Pu R. Lalthazuala outlined the future roadmap of the reforms, stating that the SDO (Civil) Office at Thenzawl will be upgraded to function as a full-fledged Sub-Registrar Office. Plans include expansion of office buildings, construction of staff quarters, deployment of additional staff, and transfer of land records from Serchhip to Thenzawl.

Later in the day, under the leadership of Serchhip Deputy Commissioner Pu Paul L. Khuma, the Revenue Minister interacted with local leaders and residents at Thenzawl Golf Course. Detailed explanations were provided on how the strengthened SDO (Civil) Office and enhanced revenue powers of the Civil Sub-Division would benefit residents of Thenzawl and surrounding villages. The interaction aimed to ensure public awareness and understanding of the reforms and their practical benefits.