The National People's Party (NPP) will contest eight seats in the Mizoram elections on November 28, party national secretary Lalrina said Thursday.

The NPP was launched in Mizoram by its president and Meghalaya chief minister, Conrad Sangma, on September 29.

Lalrina told PTI that the NPP candidates would be filing their nominations either on Thursday or Friday, which is the last date of filing nominations.

"Former parliamentary secretary Hmingdailova Khiangte, who recently resigned from the state legislature after being denied ticket by the ruling Congress, would be NPP's candidate for Tuirial seat in Kolasib district, located on the border with Assam," Lalrina said.

NPP state unit convener Lianzuala will contest from the Dampa constituency, while a retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, B Suanzalang, will try his electoral luck from Champhai North seat.

Former president of the erstwhile underground Hmar People's Convention (HPC), Hmingchungnunga, would be the NPP's nominee in the Serlui seat, while Kapliana Pachuau, a journalist and a fresher, would contest from the prestigious Serchhip seat against giants like chief minister Lal Thanhawla and Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) chief ministerial nominee Lalduhoma.

First timers -- John Lalremruata, Lalhuliana and D D Chakma -- will contest from Kolasib, Thorang and Tuichawng seats, respectively.

In Meghalaya, the NPP is the major partner of the ruling MDA alliance, while in Nagaland and Manipur it is also part of the ruling alliance. It is part of the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre and a constituent of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA).&nbsp;

The National People's Party (NPP) will contest eight seats in the Mizoram elections on November 28, party national secretary Lalrina said Thursday. The NPP was launched in Mizoram by its president and Meghalaya chief minister, Conrad Sangma, on September 29.

The National People's Party (NPP) will contest eight seats in the Mizoram elections on November 28, party national secretary Lalrina said Thursday. The NPP was launched in Mizoram by its president and Meghalaya chief minister, Conrad Sangma, on September 29. Lalrina told PTI that the NPP candidates would be filing their nominations either on Thursday or Friday, which is the last date of filing nominations. "Former parliamentary secretary Hmingdailova Khiangte, who recently resigned from the state legislature after being denied ticket by the ruling Congress, would be NPP's candidate for Tuirial seat in Kolasib district, located on the border with Assam," Lalrina said. NPP state unit convener Lianzuala will contest from the Dampa constituency, while a retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, B Suanzalang, will try his electoral luck from Champhai North seat. Former president of the erstwhile underground Hmar People's Convention (HPC), Hmingchungnunga, would be the NPP's nominee in the Serlui seat, while Kapliana Pachuau, a journalist and a fresher, would contest from the prestigious Serchhip seat against giants like chief minister Lal Thanhawla and Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) chief ministerial nominee Lalduhoma. First timers -- John Lalremruata, Lalhuliana and D D Chakma -- will contest from Kolasib, Thorang and Tuichawng seats, respectively. In Meghalaya, the NPP is the major partner of the ruling MDA alliance, while in Nagaland and Manipur it is also part of the ruling alliance. It is part of the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre and a constituent of the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA).

Mizoram polls: National People's Party to contest in 8 seats

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla on Thursday filed nominations to contest the November 28 state polls from Champhai South and Serchhip assembly seats, officials said.&nbsp;

The last day for filing of nominations is Friday.

The Congress leader would be contesting from his home turf Serchhip as well as the Champhai South constituency located on Mizoram's border with Myanmar.

He could not file his nomination papers from Serchhip on Tuesday due to a massive protest for removal of the state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) SB Shashank. The agitation was held in front of the office of the returning officer.

While Thanhawla personally appeared before the returning officer in Champhai on Thursday, his representative filed the papers on his behalf in Serchhip, the officials said.

The five-time chief minister would be pitted against Zoram People's Movement's (ZPM) chief ministerial candidate Lalduhoma, Mizo National Front (MNF) nominee C Lalramzauva, a senior advocate, and People's Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM) party chief Vanlalruata, among others, in the Serchhip seat.

Thanhawla would contest against another lawyer T J Lalnuntluanga of the MNF, and C Lalremliana of the ZPM, both first-timers, in the Champhai South seat.

Mizoram is the only State in the north-east where the Congress is in power.&nbsp;

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla on Thursday filed nominations to contest the November 28 state polls from Champhai South and Serchhip assembly seats, officials said.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla on Thursday filed nominations to contest the November 28 state polls from Champhai South and Serchhip assembly seats, officials said. The last day for filing of nominations is Friday. The Congress leader would be contesting from his home turf Serchhip as well as the Champhai South constituency located on Mizoram's border with Myanmar. He could not file his nomination papers from Serchhip on Tuesday due to a massive protest for removal of the state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) SB Shashank. The agitation was held in front of the office of the returning officer. While Thanhawla personally appeared before the returning officer in Champhai on Thursday, his representative filed the papers on his behalf in Serchhip, the officials said. The five-time chief minister would be pitted against Zoram People's Movement's (ZPM) chief ministerial candidate Lalduhoma, Mizo National Front (MNF) nominee C Lalramzauva, a senior advocate, and People's Representation for Identity and Status of Mizoram (PRISM) party chief Vanlalruata, among others, in the Serchhip seat. Thanhawla would contest against another lawyer T J Lalnuntluanga of the MNF, and C Lalremliana of the ZPM, both first-timers, in the Champhai South seat. Mizoram is the only State in the north-east where the Congress is in power.

Mizoram polls: Lal Thanhawla files nomination from two seats

The Election Commission on Thursday rejected a plea of the BJP to extend the last date of filing nominations for the November 28 assembly polls in Mizoram.

The party had moved the plea citing the law and order situation in the northeastern state.

In a letter to state BJP chief J V Hluna, the poll panel said his plea has "not been acceded to on account of peace and normalcy in the state today." 
Friday is the last date of filing nominations.

There have been protests demanding the ouster of Mizoram Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S B Shashank by the NGO Coordination Committee.

But the protests were called off Wednesday after the officer left for Delhi.

The NGO Coordination Committee, the apex body of civil societies and students' organisations in the north-eastern state, has been demanding that Shashank be replaced and transferred outside the state.

It also demanded that 11,232 Bru voters lodged in six Tripura relief camps be allowed to exercise their franchise at their respective polling stations in Mizoram and not in Tripura as committed by the poll panel in 2014. 
&nbsp;

The Election Commission on Thursday rejected a plea of the BJP to extend the last date of filing nominations for the November 28 assembly polls in Mizoram. The party had moved the plea citing the law and order situation in the northeastern state.

The Election Commission on Thursday rejected a plea of the BJP to extend the last date of filing nominations for the November 28 assembly polls in Mizoram. The party had moved the plea citing the law and order situation in the northeastern state. In a letter to state BJP chief J V Hluna, the poll panel said his plea has "not been acceded to on account of peace and normalcy in the state today." Friday is the last date of filing nominations. There have been protests demanding the ouster of Mizoram Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) S B Shashank by the NGO Coordination Committee. But the protests were called off Wednesday after the officer left for Delhi. The NGO Coordination Committee, the apex body of civil societies and students' organisations in the north-eastern state, has been demanding that Shashank be replaced and transferred outside the state. It also demanded that 11,232 Bru voters lodged in six Tripura relief camps be allowed to exercise their franchise at their respective polling stations in Mizoram and not in Tripura as committed by the poll panel in 2014.

EC rejects Mizoram BJP plea to extend date of filing nominations for assembly polls

Amid protests in Mizoram demanding the removal of the state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) SB Shashank, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has urged the Mizoram government to take all possible measures required to ensure peaceful polls in the state.

The Election Commission in a letter to the Mizoram government also informed that the Principal Secretary (Home) L Chuaungo has been removed from his post after observing the sequence of past two months and his role, in great detail.

Chuaungo's removal came after Shashank earlier complained to the EC about the interference of the state in the upcoming assembly elections.

He also mentioned Chuaungo's alleged involvement in the revision of the electoral rolls and using the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

The people of Mizoram have been protesting against Shashank, alleging that he is biased in conducting the upcoming Mizoram Assembly Elections.

In the complaint letter, he mentioned the alleged insensitivity regarding voting rights of the Bru community of Mizoram, who stay in relief camps in Tripura.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla had also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding Shashank's removal.

A three-member committee has also been constituted by the EC to look into the matter.Mizoram will go to polls on November 28.

Results will be declared on December 11. It is the only state in the North-East where the Congress party is currently in power.&nbsp;

Amid protests in Mizoram demanding the removal of the state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) SB Shashank, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has urged the Mizoram government to take all possible measures required to ensure peaceful polls in the state.

Amid protests in Mizoram demanding the removal of the state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) SB Shashank, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has urged the Mizoram government to take all possible measures required to ensure peaceful polls in the state. The Election Commission in a letter to the Mizoram government also informed that the Principal Secretary (Home) L Chuaungo has been removed from his post after observing the sequence of past two months and his role, in great detail. Chuaungo's removal came after Shashank earlier complained to the EC about the interference of the state in the upcoming assembly elections. He also mentioned Chuaungo's alleged involvement in the revision of the electoral rolls and using the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The people of Mizoram have been protesting against Shashank, alleging that he is biased in conducting the upcoming Mizoram Assembly Elections. In the complaint letter, he mentioned the alleged insensitivity regarding voting rights of the Bru community of Mizoram, who stay in relief camps in Tripura. Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla had also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding Shashank's removal. A three-member committee has also been constituted by the EC to look into the matter.Mizoram will go to polls on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11. It is the only state in the North-East where the Congress party is currently in power.

EC requests Mizoram government to ensure peaceful polls

Mizoram Assembly Speaker Hiphei would resign from the Congress and join the BJP Monday, a senior leader of the saffron party claimed Sunday.

Hiphei, a veteran leader, was elected to the Assembly from the Palak constituency.

"He (Hiphei) would first tender his resignation as the speaker and then from the primary membership of the Congress. He will then join our party," the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said on the condition of anonymity.

He added that Hiphei had recently met the central leaders of the saffron party.

Mizoram, the only state in the north-east under Congress rule, will go to the polls on November 28.

Several senior Congress leaders recently left the party and joined the opposition Mizo National Front.

Mizoram Assembly Speaker Hiphei would resign from the Congress and join the BJP Monday, a senior leader of the saffron party claimed Sunday. Hiphei, a veteran leader, was elected to the Assembly from the Palak constituency.

Mizoram Assembly Speaker Hiphei would resign from the Congress and join the BJP Monday, a senior leader of the saffron party claimed Sunday. Hiphei, a veteran leader, was elected to the Assembly from the Palak constituency. "He (Hiphei) would first tender his resignation as the speaker and then from the primary membership of the Congress. He will then join our party," the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said on the condition of anonymity. He added that Hiphei had recently met the central leaders of the saffron party. Mizoram, the only state in the north-east under Congress rule, will go to the polls on November 28. Several senior Congress leaders recently left the party and joined the opposition Mizo National Front.

BJP leader claims Mizoram speaker will quit Congress and join saffron party

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-leader-claims-mizoram-speaker-will-quit-congress-and-join-saffron-party-175552">speaker of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly</a>, Hiphei, resigned from his post today to join the Bhartiya Janata Party.

He is the fifth Congress MLA to resign from the 40-member House since September.&nbsp;

A senior BJP leader had earlier said Hiphei would resign from his post and join the saffron party.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-will-come-back-to-power-in-mizoram-and-defeat-bjps-money-power-cm-lalthanhwala-to-wion-171543">Congress will defeat BJP’s money power, Mizoram CM Lal Thanhawla tells WION</a>

"He (Hiphei) would first tender his resignation as the speaker and then from the primary membership of the Congress. He will then join our party," PTI quoted the Bharatiya Janata Party leader as saying on the&nbsp;condition of anonymity.

He added that Hiphei had recently met central leaders of the BJP.

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Aizawl: Congress leader Hiphei who had resigned as Speaker of Mizoram Legislative Assembly, joins BJP <a href="https://t.co/rd8T4PSJv8">pic.twitter.com/rd8T4PSJv8</a>
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The Congress had earlier named Hiphhei as its candidate for the Palak constituency but replaced him with party general secretary KT Rokhaw last week following reports that he might move to the BJP.

Hiphei was elected to the Mizoram Assembly from Palak constituency in 2013. He won the state elections six times between 1972 and 1989 from Tuipang.

Mizoram is one of the three states currently ruled by the Congress.

The northeastern state will go to polls on November 28.

Several senior Congress leaders have recently left the party and joined the opposition Mizo National Front.

The speaker of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly, Hiphei, resigned from his post today to join the Bhartiya Janata Party. He is the fifth Congress MLA to resign from the 40-member House since September.

The speaker of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly, Hiphei, resigned from his post today to join the Bhartiya Janata Party. He is the fifth Congress MLA to resign from the 40-member House since September. A senior BJP leader had earlier said Hiphei would resign from his post and join the saffron party. Also read: Congress will defeat BJP’s money power, Mizoram CM Lal Thanhawla tells WION "He (Hiphei) would first tender his resignation as the speaker and then from the primary membership of the Congress. He will then join our party," PTI quoted the Bharatiya Janata Party leader as saying on the condition of anonymity. He added that Hiphei had recently met central leaders of the BJP. Aizawl: Congress leader Hiphei who had resigned as Speaker of Mizoram Legislative Assembly, joins BJP pic.twitter.com/rd8T4PSJv8 — ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2018 × The Congress had earlier named Hiphhei as its candidate for the Palak constituency but replaced him with party general secretary KT Rokhaw last week following reports that he might move to the BJP. Hiphei was elected to the Mizoram Assembly from Palak constituency in 2013. He won the state elections six times between 1972 and 1989 from Tuipang. Mizoram is one of the three states currently ruled by the Congress. The northeastern state will go to polls on November 28. Several senior Congress leaders have recently left the party and joined the opposition Mizo National Front.

Speaker of Congress-ruled Mizoram resigns, joins BJP

The Congress on Thursday released its manifesto for the upcoming Mizoram Assembly polls and promised to provide free laptops to students who have cleared Class 10 and above if it returns to power in the state.

In the election manifesto released by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, the party also pledged to continue with its two flagship programmes for farmers and youths.

Mizoram is the only state in the northeast where the Congress has a government and BJP leaders have asserted they would make concerted efforts to oust the opposition party from the eight northeastern states.

Thanhawla, also the party's state unit president, has been the chief minister since 2008.

If voted to power in Mizoram for the third consecutive time, students who clear the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) exam for Class 10 and above will be given laptops every year, the party manifesto said.

Initially, however, they would be distributed among those students above the HSLC without jobs, it said.

The party also promised to continue with its New Land Use Policy (NLUP) for the farmers and New Economic Development Policy (NEDP) for unemployed youths.

The NLUP was launched in January 2011 to end the wasteful practice of shifting or 'jhum' cultivation - process of clearing land by burning its natural vegetation before growing crops.

A beneficiary of the NLUP gets around Rs 1 lakh. The party said the grant would be raised.

It said the NEDP would also be continued with special thrust on entrepreneurship development for the youths.

The Congress manifesto also promised housing for the poor in rural areas and residential quarters for employees of police and education departments.

It also promised to set up more rehabilitation centres for drug addicts and alcoholics across the state.

Polling will be held in Mizoram on November 28.

Results will be declared on December 11 along with four other states.

The Congress on Thursday released its manifesto for the upcoming Mizoram Assembly polls and promised to provide free laptops to students who have cleared Class 10 and above if it returns to power in the state.

The Congress on Thursday released its manifesto for the upcoming Mizoram Assembly polls and promised to provide free laptops to students who have cleared Class 10 and above if it returns to power in the state. In the election manifesto released by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, the party also pledged to continue with its two flagship programmes for farmers and youths. Mizoram is the only state in the northeast where the Congress has a government and BJP leaders have asserted they would make concerted efforts to oust the opposition party from the eight northeastern states. Thanhawla, also the party's state unit president, has been the chief minister since 2008. If voted to power in Mizoram for the third consecutive time, students who clear the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) exam for Class 10 and above will be given laptops every year, the party manifesto said. Initially, however, they would be distributed among those students above the HSLC without jobs, it said. The party also promised to continue with its New Land Use Policy (NLUP) for the farmers and New Economic Development Policy (NEDP) for unemployed youths. The NLUP was launched in January 2011 to end the wasteful practice of shifting or 'jhum' cultivation - process of clearing land by burning its natural vegetation before growing crops. A beneficiary of the NLUP gets around Rs 1 lakh. The party said the grant would be raised. It said the NEDP would also be continued with special thrust on entrepreneurship development for the youths. The Congress manifesto also promised housing for the poor in rural areas and residential quarters for employees of police and education departments. It also promised to set up more rehabilitation centres for drug addicts and alcoholics across the state. Polling will be held in Mizoram on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11 along with four other states.

Mizoram polls: Congress releases manifesto, promises laptops to students

The campaigning for the November 28 Mizoram Assembly elections is on in full swing, though the notification for polling to the 40-member House is yet to be issued.

The stakes are high this time as Mizoram is the only north-eastern state which has a Congress government and the BJP, which is upbeat after ousting the CPI(M) from Tripura, is keen on making inroads in the Christian-dominated state.

Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, his cabinet colleagues and top Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee leaders have already hit the campaign trail, and so has former CM Zoramthanga of the main opposition, the MNF - part of the BJP-headed NEDA (North East Democratic Alliance).

With major political parties announcing the names of almost all candidates, party leaders, star campaigners and workers are carrying out door-to-door canvassing under the watchful eyes of the Mizoram People's Forum (MPF), which has been formed by different churches and NGOs for electoral reformation.

The MPF, which had prohibited door-to-door campaigning in the earlier elections, has allowed it this time but with a rider -- the campaigners have to be accompanied by local leaders of the outfit to ensure that no money changes hands --sources in the organisation said.

Political parties have agreed to curtail a number of poll campaign strategies, and the guidelines laid down are deemed to be more stringent than the model code of conduct of the Election Commission, the sources said.

Joint platforms have been organised in the towns and villages of the north-eastern state, and these are being chaired by local MPF leaders, while individual candidates are holding public meetings to woo voters.

The ruling Congress has announced the candidates for all the 40 seats. The MNF also declared names for all the seats, except for Tuichawng, which falls within the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC).

This was due to the diktat of the powerful NGO Coordination Committee, a conglomerate of major civil societies and student bodies, asking political parties not to field any candidate belonging to the Chakma community, MNF sources said.

The civil societies are of the opinion that CADC was created unconstitutionally to harbour illegal immigrants from erstwhile East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and have been demanding scrapping of CADC, sources in the committee said.

While the Zoram People's Movement, an alliance of two small political parties and five other groups have announced the names of 35 candidates, the BJP has declared only 13 names so far.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has said it would contest at least five seats, but is yet to announce the names. The National People's Party (NPP), too, is yet to state the number of seats it would contest.

The gazette notification for Mizoram Assembly poll is scheduled on November 2 and the last date for filing nominations is November 9.

The date for scrutiny of nominations is scheduled for November 12 and the last date for withdrawal of candidatures is November 14, the Election Commission said.

The counting of votes in Mizoram will take place on December 11 along with Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana, the poll body added. 
&nbsp;

The campaigning for the November 28 Mizoram Assembly elections is on in full swing, though the notification for polling to the 40-member House is yet to be issued.

The campaigning for the November 28 Mizoram Assembly elections is on in full swing, though the notification for polling to the 40-member House is yet to be issued. The stakes are high this time as Mizoram is the only north-eastern state which has a Congress government and the BJP, which is upbeat after ousting the CPI(M) from Tripura, is keen on making inroads in the Christian-dominated state. Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, his cabinet colleagues and top Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee leaders have already hit the campaign trail, and so has former CM Zoramthanga of the main opposition, the MNF - part of the BJP-headed NEDA (North East Democratic Alliance). With major political parties announcing the names of almost all candidates, party leaders, star campaigners and workers are carrying out door-to-door canvassing under the watchful eyes of the Mizoram People's Forum (MPF), which has been formed by different churches and NGOs for electoral reformation. The MPF, which had prohibited door-to-door campaigning in the earlier elections, has allowed it this time but with a rider -- the campaigners have to be accompanied by local leaders of the outfit to ensure that no money changes hands --sources in the organisation said. Political parties have agreed to curtail a number of poll campaign strategies, and the guidelines laid down are deemed to be more stringent than the model code of conduct of the Election Commission, the sources said. Joint platforms have been organised in the towns and villages of the north-eastern state, and these are being chaired by local MPF leaders, while individual candidates are holding public meetings to woo voters. The ruling Congress has announced the candidates for all the 40 seats. The MNF also declared names for all the seats, except for Tuichawng, which falls within the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC). This was due to the diktat of the powerful NGO Coordination Committee, a conglomerate of major civil societies and student bodies, asking political parties not to field any candidate belonging to the Chakma community, MNF sources said. The civil societies are of the opinion that CADC was created unconstitutionally to harbour illegal immigrants from erstwhile East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and have been demanding scrapping of CADC, sources in the committee said. While the Zoram People's Movement, an alliance of two small political parties and five other groups have announced the names of 35 candidates, the BJP has declared only 13 names so far. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has said it would contest at least five seats, but is yet to announce the names. The National People's Party (NPP), too, is yet to state the number of seats it would contest. The gazette notification for Mizoram Assembly poll is scheduled on November 2 and the last date for filing nominations is November 9. The date for scrutiny of nominations is scheduled for November 12 and the last date for withdrawal of candidatures is November 14, the Election Commission said. The counting of votes in Mizoram will take place on December 11 along with Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana, the poll body added.

Campaigning gathers steam in poll-bound Mizoram

Releasing its first list of 77 candidates for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, the BJP Saturday fielded Chief Minister Raman Singh from his traditional Rajnandgaon seat and dropped 14 incumbent MLAs in its bid to capture power in the state for a fourth straight term.

After a meeting of the BJP's Central Election Committee, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and its president Amit Shah, the party also announced the names of 38 candidates for the election to the 119-member Telangana Assembly.

Names of 13 candidates, all Christians, have been also been declared for the polls to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly, Union minister J P Nadda said.

Chhattisgarh, along with Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, is ruled by the BJP out of the five poll-bound states. Chhattisgarh has 90 assembly seats and will be the first to go to the polls in two phases on November 12 and 20.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Ramdayal Uike, the working president of the Chhattisgarh Congress who joined the saffron party recently, from Pali-Tanakhar seat, and former IAS officer O P Chaudhary, who quit the service to join the party, from Kharsia, a Congress stronghold.

Among the candidates announced so far, 14 are women, 25 are less than 40 years of age, 10 candidates belong to the Scheduled Castes and 29 STs.

The first phase of polling covers 18 seats spread across eight Naxal-affected districts of Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Kanker, Narayanpur and Rajnandgaon. Out of these 18 seats, the BJP Saturday named candidates for 17 assembly segments.

The BJP had won 49 seats in the previous assembly polls in 2013 in the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly.

A two minute-silence was held for the victims of the Amritsar train accident during the Central Election Committee meeting, Nadda said.

He said party leaders also expressed satisfaction at the performance of the party in local body polls in Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Releasing its first list of 77 candidates for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, the BJP Saturday fielded Chief Minister Raman Singh from his traditional Rajnandgaon seat and dropped 14 incumbent MLAs in its bid to capture power in the state for a fourth straight term.

Releasing its first list of 77 candidates for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, the BJP Saturday fielded Chief Minister Raman Singh from his traditional Rajnandgaon seat and dropped 14 incumbent MLAs in its bid to capture power in the state for a fourth straight term. After a meeting of the BJP's Central Election Committee, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and its president Amit Shah, the party also announced the names of 38 candidates for the election to the 119-member Telangana Assembly. Names of 13 candidates, all Christians, have been also been declared for the polls to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly, Union minister J P Nadda said. Chhattisgarh, along with Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, is ruled by the BJP out of the five poll-bound states. Chhattisgarh has 90 assembly seats and will be the first to go to the polls in two phases on November 12 and 20. The Bharatiya Janata Party has fielded Ramdayal Uike, the working president of the Chhattisgarh Congress who joined the saffron party recently, from Pali-Tanakhar seat, and former IAS officer O P Chaudhary, who quit the service to join the party, from Kharsia, a Congress stronghold. Among the candidates announced so far, 14 are women, 25 are less than 40 years of age, 10 candidates belong to the Scheduled Castes and 29 STs. The first phase of polling covers 18 seats spread across eight Naxal-affected districts of Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Kanker, Narayanpur and Rajnandgaon. Out of these 18 seats, the BJP Saturday named candidates for 17 assembly segments. The BJP had won 49 seats in the previous assembly polls in 2013 in the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly. A two minute-silence was held for the victims of the Amritsar train accident during the Central Election Committee meeting, Nadda said. He said party leaders also expressed satisfaction at the performance of the party in local body polls in Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.

BJP announces first list of 77 candidates for Chhattisgarh polls

Former Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma quit the Congress today and is all set to join the BJP.

After tendering his resignation as a legislator from the state Assembly,&nbsp;Chakma submitted his resignation from the primary membership of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to party functionaries Aizawl.

The resignation letter from the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee was addressed to the committee president, Lal Thanhawla, who is also the chief minister.

Speaker Hiphei has accepted Chakma's resignation from the House, Assembly secretary SR Zokhuma said.

Election to the 40-member House is scheduled to be held in the state on November 28.

Mizoram BJP unit president Prof John V Hluna told news agency PTI that Chakma would be joining the BJP today.

The Bharatiya Janata Party would field Chakma from Tuichawng seat in the assembly polls, Hluna said.

With Chakma's resignation, three Congress MLAs have resigned from the Assembly recently.<iframe data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

The present strength of the state legislature is 37 after resignation of the three Congress legislators. The ruling Congress has 31 legislators and the Mizo National Front six.

The Assembly Speaker on Monday had accepted the resignation of former home minister R Lalzirliana.

Lalzirliana, who resigned as the state home minister on September 14 was expelled as vice president of the state Pradesh Congress Committee and primary member of the Congress party indefinitely by the ruling Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee disciplinary action committee on September 17.

He formally joined the Mizo National Front yesterday.

Earlier, another Congress legislator Lalrinliana Sailo, former minister and member of the AICC and general secretary of the state PCC had also left the ruling party and joined the Mizo National Front.

Chakma had resigned from the council of ministers on August 21, 2017 in protest against discrimination of some students belonging to Chakma community for admission to medical colleges across the country, though they had qualified for MBBS seat under the state quota.

Former Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma quit the Congress today and is all set to join the BJP. After tendering his resignation as a legislator from the state Assembly, Chakma submitted his resignation from the primary membership of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to party functionaries Aizawl.

Former Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma quit the Congress today and is all set to join the BJP. After tendering his resignation as a legislator from the state Assembly, Chakma submitted his resignation from the primary membership of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) to party functionaries Aizawl. The resignation letter from the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee was addressed to the committee president, Lal Thanhawla, who is also the chief minister. Speaker Hiphei has accepted Chakma's resignation from the House, Assembly secretary SR Zokhuma said. Election to the 40-member House is scheduled to be held in the state on November 28. Mizoram BJP unit president Prof John V Hluna told news agency PTI that Chakma would be joining the BJP today. The Bharatiya Janata Party would field Chakma from Tuichawng seat in the assembly polls, Hluna said. With Chakma's resignation, three Congress MLAs have resigned from the Assembly recently. The present strength of the state legislature is 37 after resignation of the three Congress legislators. The ruling Congress has 31 legislators and the Mizo National Front six. The Assembly Speaker on Monday had accepted the resignation of former home minister R Lalzirliana. Lalzirliana, who resigned as the state home minister on September 14 was expelled as vice president of the state Pradesh Congress Committee and primary member of the Congress party indefinitely by the ruling Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee disciplinary action committee on September 17. He formally joined the Mizo National Front yesterday. Earlier, another Congress legislator Lalrinliana Sailo, former minister and member of the AICC and general secretary of the state PCC had also left the ruling party and joined the Mizo National Front. Chakma had resigned from the council of ministers on August 21, 2017 in protest against discrimination of some students belonging to Chakma community for admission to medical colleges across the country, though they had qualified for MBBS seat under the state quota.

Ex-Mizoram minister Buddha Dhan Chakma resigns from Congress, to join BJP

With dates for five Assembly elections announced, all eyes are focused on the two large and politically crucial states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. However, it’s the smallest one in the list, Mizoram, which holds the key to whether the Congress will be able to retain even its depleted presence in the Northeast, or whether the Bharatiya Janata Party will sustain its recent successes in the region. The politics of the northeastern States is critical from the perspective of the country’s security, sovereignty and integrity — more than any other region with the exception of Jammu &amp; Kashmir — and Mizoram is an important element in that overall scheme of things.&nbsp;

Mizoram is the last standing citadel of the Congress in the North-East, but that bastion is under attack. Party affairs are in a mess in the State; only recently, R Lalzirliana, one of its senior leaders and home minister in the Government of Lal Thanhawla, quit following differences with the chief minister. So did former health minister Lalrinliana Sailo. The party’s local leadership has tried to play down the development, claiming that the two Ministers had to leave because of serious allegations of corruption against them. But that does not explain the widely-held apprehension in party ranks that more desertions can happen in the run-up to the Assembly election, to be held on November 28. &nbsp;

It’s not just the problems that many Congress leaders have with the local leadership led by Lal Thanhawla. There is the fear of anti-incumbency too. The Congress regime has been in power since 2008, and the fatigue factor has begun to show. Many influential leaders have been rubbed the wrong way in the last decade that corresponded with the emergence of Lal Thanhawla’s iron hand. In the earlier years, dissident leaders had no option but to swallow the insult; they had nowhere to go. The main opposition party, the Mizo National Front (MNF), had been sidelined and over the years become quite ineffective. It had won just five seats in the 40-member House in the 2013 election, while the Congress had bagged 34 seats. Things have changed since then.&nbsp;

First, the MNF led by Zoramthanga has been strengthened by its partnership with the BJP, via the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA); the MNF chief is a founder-member of the alliance. Second, the MNF is upbeat over the departure of key leaders from the Congress and would be quite happy to accommodate the rebels. Third, it is banking on the strong anti-incumbency factor. And fourth, it believes that the BJP’s recent successes in the North-East, both in an individual capacity and through alliances, will impact the mood of the electorate in Mizoram too. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The BJP is content to let events play out in its favour. It will repeat the strategy it has deployed in the other northeastern States — that of cementing partnerships with local players and taking a subordinate position whenever the situation demands. In Meghalaya, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, the party tied up with regional outfits and outwitted the Congress in the electoral battle. In Assam and Tripura, although it swept the polls on its own, it still proceeded to form coalition regimes with regional parties. The BJP wants its NEDA experiment to keep delivering results, even if in the process it has to take a back seat in some cases. The BJP does not have a strong cadre in Mizoram, and will, like in the case of Meghalaya and Manipur, hope to ride piggyback on local allies to victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Incidentally, of the seven States in the Northeast, it’s the Meghalaya reminder that will trouble the Congress the most and elate the opposition equally as much. Prior to Assembly election in Meghalaya earlier this year, several leaders had quit the Congress (five among them were sitting Legislators). The party was defeated. Does a similar scenario await the Congress in Mizoram? Or is the opposition overly optimistic, given that the Congress is hardly a pushover in the state? We will know on December 11. &nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

With dates for five Assembly elections announced, all eyes are focused on the two large and politically crucial states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. However, it’s the smallest one in the list, Mizoram, which holds the key to whether the Congress will be able to retain even its depleted presence in the Northeast, or whether the Bharatiya Janata Party will sustain its recent successes in the region.

With dates for five Assembly elections announced, all eyes are focused on the two large and politically crucial states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. However, it’s the smallest one in the list, Mizoram, which holds the key to whether the Congress will be able to retain even its depleted presence in the Northeast, or whether the Bharatiya Janata Party will sustain its recent successes in the region. The politics of the northeastern States is critical from the perspective of the country’s security, sovereignty and integrity — more than any other region with the exception of Jammu & Kashmir — and Mizoram is an important element in that overall scheme of things. Mizoram is the last standing citadel of the Congress in the North-East, but that bastion is under attack. Party affairs are in a mess in the State; only recently, R Lalzirliana, one of its senior leaders and home minister in the Government of Lal Thanhawla, quit following differences with the chief minister. So did former health minister Lalrinliana Sailo. The party’s local leadership has tried to play down the development, claiming that the two Ministers had to leave because of serious allegations of corruption against them. But that does not explain the widely-held apprehension in party ranks that more desertions can happen in the run-up to the Assembly election, to be held on November 28. It’s not just the problems that many Congress leaders have with the local leadership led by Lal Thanhawla. There is the fear of anti-incumbency too. The Congress regime has been in power since 2008, and the fatigue factor has begun to show. Many influential leaders have been rubbed the wrong way in the last decade that corresponded with the emergence of Lal Thanhawla’s iron hand. In the earlier years, dissident leaders had no option but to swallow the insult; they had nowhere to go. The main opposition party, the Mizo National Front (MNF), had been sidelined and over the years become quite ineffective. It had won just five seats in the 40-member House in the 2013 election, while the Congress had bagged 34 seats. Things have changed since then. First, the MNF led by Zoramthanga has been strengthened by its partnership with the BJP, via the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA); the MNF chief is a founder-member of the alliance. Second, the MNF is upbeat over the departure of key leaders from the Congress and would be quite happy to accommodate the rebels. Third, it is banking on the strong anti-incumbency factor. And fourth, it believes that the BJP’s recent successes in the North-East, both in an individual capacity and through alliances, will impact the mood of the electorate in Mizoram too. The BJP is content to let events play out in its favour. It will repeat the strategy it has deployed in the other northeastern States — that of cementing partnerships with local players and taking a subordinate position whenever the situation demands. In Meghalaya, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, the party tied up with regional outfits and outwitted the Congress in the electoral battle. In Assam and Tripura, although it swept the polls on its own, it still proceeded to form coalition regimes with regional parties. The BJP wants its NEDA experiment to keep delivering results, even if in the process it has to take a back seat in some cases. The BJP does not have a strong cadre in Mizoram, and will, like in the case of Meghalaya and Manipur, hope to ride piggyback on local allies to victory. Incidentally, of the seven States in the Northeast, it’s the Meghalaya reminder that will trouble the Congress the most and elate the opposition equally as much. Prior to Assembly election in Meghalaya earlier this year, several leaders had quit the Congress (five among them were sitting Legislators). The party was defeated. Does a similar scenario await the Congress in Mizoram? Or is the opposition overly optimistic, given that the Congress is hardly a pushover in the state? We will know on December 11. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Mizoram polls more crucial for Congress than BJP

P Lal Thanhawla has been&nbsp;the chief minister of Mizoram since 2008 for a record&nbsp;five times. He started with Mizo National Front (MNF) in 1966 and subsequently joined Congress in 1967. He gave up the position of chief minister for Pu Laldenga when former late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi signed the peace accord. Though BJP is not much of a force in Mizoram, the chief minister&nbsp;will face both BJP and MNF at the same time.

He spoke to WION’S Kartikeya Sharma on a&nbsp;number of issues ranging from prohibition to BJP and&nbsp;trade links with Bangladesh.

 
WION: How hopeful you are of wresting Mizoram again?

Lal Thanhawla: I’m very hopeful of winning back Mizoram again. Trends are in our favour and there is no anti-incumbency in the state. People are with us and our candidates will do very well.

WION: What are the issues in the upcoming assembly elections?

Lal Thanhawla: There aren’t many issues. Economically Mizoram has done well. &nbsp;Congress&nbsp;is a popular government. Our policies have benefitted the poor. Mizoram is part of the best performing states in India. It is ahead of Gujarat in some parameters. Mizoram’s per capita income is higher than the national average. We have been able to cater to the low-income strata very well.

WION: Is prohibition an issue in the elections?

Lal Thanhawla: Prohibition is not an issue. We implemented the prohibition on the advice of the Church which failed miserably. We had to find alternatives after its failure. We made the sale of liquor legal but added strong provisions to control its rampant sale.

WION: Two important ministers have quit your government...

Lal Thanhawla: There resignation will not affect my government. Some years ago our vice-president also quit but we came back with a thumping majority. We will repeat our performance again.

WION: What explains the rise of BJP in the state and is Opposition a force in Mizoram?

Lal Thanhawla: BJP has come up in North-East through money power. Even in the past money power was used in Mizoram. It did not find success in the state. We will defeat BJP’s attempt to intrude in the state. MNF is not a major force even in the legislature today. They only have 5 MLAs in an assembly of 40. Though some regional parties are trying to come together, Congress will defeat all of them.

WION: Will you be the CM again or would you like to go to the Centre?

Lal Thanhawla: I have no plans of doing politics at the Centre. I do not want to leave the state.

WION: What will you do if you are voted back into power?

Lal Thanhawla: I want to establish trade links with Bangladesh. Nothing was done for 10 years when I was not in power. Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is very keen on trade links with our state. We already have trade links with Myanmar. This will give us access to the port. It will benefit Mizoram immensely.

P Lal Thanhawla has been the chief minister of Mizoram since 2008 for a record five times. He started with Mizo National Front (MNF) in 1966 and subsequently joined Congress in 1967.

P Lal Thanhawla has been the chief minister of Mizoram since 2008 for a record five times. He started with Mizo National Front (MNF) in 1966 and subsequently joined Congress in 1967. He gave up the position of chief minister for Pu Laldenga when former late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi signed the peace accord. Though BJP is not much of a force in Mizoram, the chief minister will face both BJP and MNF at the same time. He spoke to WION’S Kartikeya Sharma on a number of issues ranging from prohibition to BJP and trade links with Bangladesh. WION: How hopeful you are of wresting Mizoram again? Lal Thanhawla: I’m very hopeful of winning back Mizoram again. Trends are in our favour and there is no anti-incumbency in the state. People are with us and our candidates will do very well. WION: What are the issues in the upcoming assembly elections? Lal Thanhawla: There aren’t many issues. Economically Mizoram has done well. Congress is a popular government. Our policies have benefitted the poor. Mizoram is part of the best performing states in India. It is ahead of Gujarat in some parameters. Mizoram’s per capita income is higher than the national average. We have been able to cater to the low-income strata very well. WION: Is prohibition an issue in the elections? Lal Thanhawla: Prohibition is not an issue. We implemented the prohibition on the advice of the Church which failed miserably. We had to find alternatives after its failure. We made the sale of liquor legal but added strong provisions to control its rampant sale. WION: Two important ministers have quit your government... Lal Thanhawla: There resignation will not affect my government. Some years ago our vice-president also quit but we came back with a thumping majority. We will repeat our performance again. WION: What explains the rise of BJP in the state and is Opposition a force in Mizoram? Lal Thanhawla: BJP has come up in North-East through money power. Even in the past money power was used in Mizoram. It did not find success in the state. We will defeat BJP’s attempt to intrude in the state. MNF is not a major force even in the legislature today. They only have 5 MLAs in an assembly of 40. Though some regional parties are trying to come together, Congress will defeat all of them. WION: Will you be the CM again or would you like to go to the Centre? Lal Thanhawla: I have no plans of doing politics at the Centre. I do not want to leave the state. WION: What will you do if you are voted back into power? Lal Thanhawla: I want to establish trade links with Bangladesh. Nothing was done for 10 years when I was not in power. Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is very keen on trade links with our state. We already have trade links with Myanmar. This will give us access to the port. It will benefit Mizoram immensely.

Congress will defeat BJP’s money power: Mizoram CM Lal Thanhawla to WION

The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedules for Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram today.&nbsp;

All four states are expected to go to the polls this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PTI quoted sources as saying the elections in the four states are expected to be wrapped up by December.&nbsp;

The sources added that while Chhattisgarh is expected to go to the polls over two phases, the other states will go to the polls in one single phase.&nbsp;

The commission has called a press conference for Saturday afternoon, at which it will make the announcements.

The commission may also announce the poll schedule for Telangana at the conference.

The Election Commission however <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-questions-independence-after-ec-reschedules-press-conference-ahead-of-modi-rally-169791">came under fire</a> on Tuesday after the Congress accused it of pushing back its press conference so as to not interfere with a rally to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan today.&nbsp;

The Congress's Randeep Singh Surjewala said the EC had called its press conference for 12.30 pm on Saturday. But that the commission pushed the conference back to 3 pm since a 12.30 announcement would have interfered with Modi's rally which is scheduled for 1 pm today.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 
 
1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 
 
2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 
 
3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. 
 
Independence of ECI?
— Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) <a href="https://twitter.com/rssurjewala/status/1048445188165816320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Parties are not allowed to make poll promises after election dates have been announced by the Election Commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am Prime Minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer's Pushkar. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> <a href="https://t.co/HqCf7oTLWg">pic.twitter.com/HqCf7oTLWg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1048490128270876672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I am prime minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present," Modi said later at his rally in Ajmer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedules for Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram today. All four states are expected to go to the polls this year.

The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedules for Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram today. All four states are expected to go to the polls this year. PTI quoted sources as saying the elections in the four states are expected to be wrapped up by December. The sources added that while Chhattisgarh is expected to go to the polls over two phases, the other states will go to the polls in one single phase. The commission has called a press conference for Saturday afternoon, at which it will make the announcements. The commission may also announce the poll schedule for Telangana at the conference. The Election Commission however came under fire on Tuesday after the Congress accused it of pushing back its press conference so as to not interfere with a rally to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan today. The Congress's Randeep Singh Surjewala said the EC had called its press conference for 12.30 pm on Saturday. But that the commission pushed the conference back to 3 pm since a 12.30 announcement would have interfered with Modi's rally which is scheduled for 1 pm today. 3 Facts- Draw your own conclusions. 1. ECI announces a PC at 12.30 today to announce elction dates to the 5 states. 2. PM Modi is addressing a rally in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 1 PM today. 3. ECI suddenly changes the time of announcement and PC to 3 PM. Independence of ECI? — Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) October 6, 2018 × Parties are not allowed to make poll promises after election dates have been announced by the Election Commission. I am Prime Minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer's Pushkar. #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/HqCf7oTLWg — ANI (@ANI) October 6, 2018 × "I am prime minister for the nation, but a worker for the BJP. So wherever I am invited, even if at a booth level meeting, I will be present," Modi said later at his rally in Ajmer. (With inputs from PTI)

Election dates for MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh & Mizoram to be announced today

Bharatiya Janata Party general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday that the party would fight alone in the Mizoram assembly election, but might forge an alliance with like-minded parties.

Addressing a press conference here, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats if possible.

On the Opposition calling Mizo National Front (MNF) "proxy" of the BJP, the general secretary termed it "ridiculous". The party would contest against the MNF and the National People's Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA).

NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with regional political parties of the northeast like Naga People's Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, People's Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People's Front.

He asserted that the BJP "respected" the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion.

Madhav accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla -- in power for 10 years -- of being corrupt and inefficient.

The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructure development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated several developmental projects and funding the projects, the BJP leader said.

If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade.

He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins.

Bharatiya Janata Party general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday that the party would fight alone in the Mizoram assembly election, but might forge an alliance with like-minded parties.

Bharatiya Janata Party general secretary Ram Madhav said on Wednesday that the party would fight alone in the Mizoram assembly election, but might forge an alliance with like-minded parties. Addressing a press conference here, Madhav, who is in charge of the Northeast, said the BJP would field candidates in all the 40 assembly seats if possible. On the Opposition calling Mizo National Front (MNF) "proxy" of the BJP, the general secretary termed it "ridiculous". The party would contest against the MNF and the National People's Party in the polls, though they are constituents of North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA). NEDA is a political coalition formed in 2016 by the BJP, along with regional political parties of the northeast like Naga People's Front, Sikkim Democratic Front, People's Party of Arunachal, Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People's Front. He asserted that the BJP "respected" the food habits, distinct cultural and customs of the Mizos and their religion. Madhav accused the ruling Congress, headed by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla -- in power for 10 years -- of being corrupt and inefficient. The Thanhawla regime did not create any basic infrastructure development during the last decade, though the Centre initiated several developmental projects and funding the projects, the BJP leader said. If voted to power, the BJP would construct a four-lane highway across the state, linking both Myanmar and Bangladesh, Madhav said. The proposed highway would ensure access to the international market and open the east-west corridor for trade. He added that engineering colleges would be established at Lunglei and Champhai districts if the saffron party wins.

BJP to go alone in Mizoram poll: General Secretary 

BJP leaders Ganeshi Lal and Kummanam Rajasekharan were today appointed as Governors of Odisha and Mizoram respectively.&nbsp;

According to a Rashtrapati Bhavan communique, Professor Ganeshi Lal will take over as the new governor of Odisha, a post which had fallen vacant in March this year after veteran Naga leader S C Jamir completed his tenure.&nbsp;

Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik had been given additional charge of Odisha.

Lal is a former Haryana BJP chief. "The President of India has been pleased to appoint Prof. Ganeshi Lal to be the Governor of Odisha with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office," the communique said.

In his second order, the President appointed Kerala BJP chief Kummanam Rajasekharan as the Governor of Mizoram.

He will be replacing Lt. General (Retd.) Nirbhay Sharma, who is completing his tenure on May 28, 2018.

Sixty-five-year-old Rajasekharan had given up his government job to became 'pracharak' of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh. He was appointed as the state BJP chief in 2015. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Professor Ganeshi Lal will take over as the new governor of Odisha, a post which had fallen vacant in March this year after veteran Naga leader S C Jamir completed his tenure.

BJP leaders Ganeshi Lal and Kummanam Rajasekharan were today appointed as Governors of Odisha and Mizoram respectively. According to a Rashtrapati Bhavan communique, Professor Ganeshi Lal will take over as the new governor of Odisha, a post which had fallen vacant in March this year after veteran Naga leader S C Jamir completed his tenure. Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik had been given additional charge of Odisha. Lal is a former Haryana BJP chief. "The President of India has been pleased to appoint Prof. Ganeshi Lal to be the Governor of Odisha with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office," the communique said. In his second order, the President appointed Kerala BJP chief Kummanam Rajasekharan as the Governor of Mizoram. He will be replacing Lt. General (Retd.) Nirbhay Sharma, who is completing his tenure on May 28, 2018. Sixty-five-year-old Rajasekharan had given up his government job to became 'pracharak' of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh. He was appointed as the state BJP chief in 2015.

BJP leaders Ganeshi Lal and Kummanam Rajasekharan appointed governors of Mizoram, Odisha

Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 8th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship 2018 (A Division) after they played out a goalless draw against Delhi in their Pool A clash here on Tuesday.

Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy needed a positive result in their last match to be able to qualify for the quarter-finals, and Delhi Hockey needed a win. But the former's defence made sure that their team registered a place in the next round with their second draw of the competition.

Madhya Pradesh finished at a top position with a tally of eight points.

In the other Pool A match, The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd. registered their first win of the competition as they beat Gangpur-Odisha">Odisha 4-3.

Goals for The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd. were scored by Ruchi Bhandari (3'), Lynette Lobo (9'), Manshi Belgaonkar (18') and skipper Resham Mahadik (60') while Topno Aten (20', 61') and skipper Jiwan Kishori Toppo (17') scored for Hockey Gangpur-Odisha">Odisha, who also qualified for the quarter-final with a second-place finish in Pool A.

In Pool B, Haryana registered a thumping 11-2 victory over Chhattisgarh to qualify for the quarter-finals as the second-placed team in the Pool.

Goals for Haryana were scored by Amandeep Kaur (9', 14', 24', 29'), Amrinder Kaur (7', 31', 54'), Reet (21'), Anu (45'), Kajal (63') and Manisha (64') while Anjali Mahto (33') and Anju Kerketta (67') scored the goals for Chhattisgarh.

In the other Pool B match, Odisha">Odisha defeated Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu 10-1 to qualify for the last-eight as the Pool B toppers with a tally of 12 points from four matches.

Goals for Odisha">Odisha were scored by Elima Minz (8', 43', 59', 66'), Abinasi Mukti Surin (14', 45', 67'), Ashim Kanchan Barla (4', 55') and Neha Lakra (60') while M Janani (37') scored Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu's only goal of the match.

In Pool C, Jharkhand qualified as the toppers with a tally of 12 points from four matches.

Jharkhand defeated Hockey Him 7-3 where goals for the winning team were scored by Simta Minz (22', 36'), Deepika Soreng (43', 55'), Sangita Kumari (11'), Beauty Dungdung (23') and Pinki Ekka (55') while Arti Kashyap (29'), Antim (39') and Manju Chorsiya (63') scored for Him.

In the other Pool C match, Uttar Pradesh defeated Coorg 8-1 to secure their third victory of the competition.

Goals for Uttar Pradesh Hockey were scored by Yogita Bora (20', 22', 39', 47'), Anshika Singh (10', 50'), Sonal Tiwari (31') and Akanksha Shukla (56') while M Devi (68') scored the only goal for Coorg.

In Pool D, Mizoram played out a 2-2 draw with Punjab to secure the top spot in the Pool with a tally of ten points.

Goals for Mizoram were scored by Lalrinfeli (1') and Lalrinpuii (43') while skipper Mitali (13') and Simranjit Kaur (22') scored for Punjab.

In the other Pool D match, Sports Authority of India secured their spot in the quarter-finals with an emphatic 13-2 win over Uttarakhand.

Goals for Sports Authority of India were scored by skipper Monika Sihag (5', 37', 40', 42', 43'), Betan Dung Dung (4', 8', 38'), Sumanpreet Kaur (20', 31', 69') and Gayatri Kissan (3', 50') while Mamta Bhatt (67') and Parameshwari (70') scored the goals for Uttarakhand.

Madhya Pradesh will now face Haryana, Mizoram will take on Uttar Pradesh, Odisha">Odisha will lock horns with Gangpur-Odisha">Odisha and Jharkhand will compete against Sports Authority of India in the quarter-finals of the championship.

Madhya Pradesh finished at a top position with a tally of eight points

Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 8th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship 2018 (A Division) after they played out a goalless draw against Delhi in their Pool A clash here on Tuesday. Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy needed a positive result in their last match to be able to qualify for the quarter-finals, and Delhi Hockey needed a win. But the former's defence made sure that their team registered a place in the next round with their second draw of the competition. Madhya Pradesh finished at a top position with a tally of eight points. In the other Pool A match, The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd. registered their first win of the competition as they beat Gangpur-Odisha">Odisha 4-3. Goals for The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd. were scored by Ruchi Bhandari (3'), Lynette Lobo (9'), Manshi Belgaonkar (18') and skipper Resham Mahadik (60') while Topno Aten (20', 61') and skipper Jiwan Kishori Toppo (17') scored for Hockey Gangpur-Odisha">Odisha, who also qualified for the quarter-final with a second-place finish in Pool A. In Pool B, Haryana registered a thumping 11-2 victory over Chhattisgarh to qualify for the quarter-finals as the second-placed team in the Pool. Goals for Haryana were scored by Amandeep Kaur (9', 14', 24', 29'), Amrinder Kaur (7', 31', 54'), Reet (21'), Anu (45'), Kajal (63') and Manisha (64') while Anjali Mahto (33') and Anju Kerketta (67') scored the goals for Chhattisgarh. In the other Pool B match, Odisha">Odisha defeated Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu 10-1 to qualify for the last-eight as the Pool B toppers with a tally of 12 points from four matches. Goals for Odisha">Odisha were scored by Elima Minz (8', 43', 59', 66'), Abinasi Mukti Surin (14', 45', 67'), Ashim Kanchan Barla (4', 55') and Neha Lakra (60') while M Janani (37') scored Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu's only goal of the match. In Pool C, Jharkhand qualified as the toppers with a tally of 12 points from four matches. Jharkhand defeated Hockey Him 7-3 where goals for the winning team were scored by Simta Minz (22', 36'), Deepika Soreng (43', 55'), Sangita Kumari (11'), Beauty Dungdung (23') and Pinki Ekka (55') while Arti Kashyap (29'), Antim (39') and Manju Chorsiya (63') scored for Him. In the other Pool C match, Uttar Pradesh defeated Coorg 8-1 to secure their third victory of the competition. Goals for Uttar Pradesh Hockey were scored by Yogita Bora (20', 22', 39', 47'), Anshika Singh (10', 50'), Sonal Tiwari (31') and Akanksha Shukla (56') while M Devi (68') scored the only goal for Coorg. In Pool D, Mizoram played out a 2-2 draw with Punjab to secure the top spot in the Pool with a tally of ten points. Goals for Mizoram were scored by Lalrinfeli (1') and Lalrinpuii (43') while skipper Mitali (13') and Simranjit Kaur (22') scored for Punjab. In the other Pool D match, Sports Authority of India secured their spot in the quarter-finals with an emphatic 13-2 win over Uttarakhand. Goals for Sports Authority of India were scored by skipper Monika Sihag (5', 37', 40', 42', 43'), Betan Dung Dung (4', 8', 38'), Sumanpreet Kaur (20', 31', 69') and Gayatri Kissan (3', 50') while Mamta Bhatt (67') and Parameshwari (70') scored the goals for Uttarakhand. Madhya Pradesh will now face Haryana, Mizoram will take on Uttar Pradesh, Odisha">Odisha will lock horns with Gangpur-Odisha">Odisha and Jharkhand will compete against Sports Authority of India in the quarter-finals of the championship.

Junior Women Hockey Championship: MP, Odisha reach quarters

The International Monetary Fund has said it wants continued momentum in India's growth and structural reforms despite the election period.

A number of elections are scheduled to be held in India within the next one year with assembly polls in Karnataka, Mizoram, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan as well as the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

"We are not saying that India's structural reform speed will slow down because of elections. What we are saying is that the growth momentum and the structural reform momentum should continue despite the election period," said Changyong Rhee, Director of the Asia and Pacific Department at the IMF.

India is projected to grow at 7.4 per cent in the fiscal year 2018-2019 as the economy recovers from temporary destruction due to currency exchange initiatives and the roll out of the new goods and services tax, Rhee said Thursday.

Ken Kang, Deputy Director, at the IMF Asia and Pacific Department said the implementation of the GST was "a major reform" of the Indian tax system.&nbsp

"In recent years, India has made impressive progress in reforms.. It (GST) will enhance the efficiency of intra-Indian movement of goods and services, help create a common national market as well as help boost jobs and growth," said Kang.

He said India's introduction of flexible inflation targeting and of a statutory monetary policy which has helped strengthen the monetary policy framework was another big achievement.&nbsp

"The government has recently announced a major recapitalisation plan for the public-sector banks in order to accelerate the work out of non-performing loans, as well as made some important legal improvements through a new insolvency and bankruptcy law," said Kang.

"The IMF hopes that the reform momentum would continue," Kang added.&nbsp

Looking ahead, said Kang, India needed to focus on labour market reforms with a focus on increasing formal female labour participation, to improve the business environment, and reduce complex regulations, but also to address supply bottlenecks, particularly in the agricultural sector and distribution networks.

Responding to a question, Kang said that the IMF expects India's role in the region to expand.

"India does have room to expand its export orientation and to reduce further trade and non-trade barriers. The statutory tariff rate in India is relatively high at about 15 per cent and higher than those in the rest of the region. So there is room to do more on trade reforms," he said.

A number of elections are scheduled to be held in India within the next one year with assembly polls in Karnataka, Mizoram, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan as well as the 2019 Lok Sabha election

The International Monetary Fund has said it wants continued momentum in India's growth and structural reforms despite the election period. A number of elections are scheduled to be held in India within the next one year with assembly polls in Karnataka, Mizoram, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan as well as the 2019 Lok Sabha election. "We are not saying that India's structural reform speed will slow down because of elections. What we are saying is that the growth momentum and the structural reform momentum should continue despite the election period," said Changyong Rhee, Director of the Asia and Pacific Department at the IMF. India is projected to grow at 7.4 per cent in the fiscal year 2018-2019 as the economy recovers from temporary destruction due to currency exchange initiatives and the roll out of the new goods and services tax, Rhee said Thursday. Ken Kang, Deputy Director, at the IMF Asia and Pacific Department said the implementation of the GST was "a major reform" of the Indian tax system. "In recent years, India has made impressive progress in reforms.. It (GST) will enhance the efficiency of intra-Indian movement of goods and services, help create a common national market as well as help boost jobs and growth," said Kang. He said India's introduction of flexible inflation targeting and of a statutory monetary policy which has helped strengthen the monetary policy framework was another big achievement. "The government has recently announced a major recapitalisation plan for the public-sector banks in order to accelerate the work out of non-performing loans, as well as made some important legal improvements through a new insolvency and bankruptcy law," said Kang. "The IMF hopes that the reform momentum would continue," Kang added. Looking ahead, said Kang, India needed to focus on labour market reforms with a focus on increasing formal female labour participation, to improve the business environment, and reduce complex regulations, but also to address supply bottlenecks, particularly in the agricultural sector and distribution networks. Responding to a question, Kang said that the IMF expects India's role in the region to expand. "India does have room to expand its export orientation and to reduce further trade and non-trade barriers. The statutory tariff rate in India is relatively high at about 15 per cent and higher than those in the rest of the region. So there is room to do more on trade reforms," he said.

India's growth momentum must continue despite elections: IMF

Over 1,400 Myanmarese nationals who took refuge in Mizoram&#39;s Lawngtlai district following clash between Arakan militants and the Army there in November last year have refused to return to their country, a senior police officer said today.

The refugees who fled Myanmar since November 25 last year following a crackdown on Arakan rebels by the Myanmar Army in the border areas refused to go back claiming that they were &quot;afraid&quot; of the Myanmar Army personnel, Superintendent of Police of Lawngtlai, Lalsanglura said.

&quot;Though the fighting between the Myanmar Army and the Arakan insurgents had apparently stopped and no gunfires heard for almost a month, the people who took shelter in four villages along the Mizoram-Myanmar border - Laitlang, Dumzautlang, Zochachhuah and Hmawngbuchhuah, still refused to return to their respective villages,&quot; the SP said.

The refugees were mainly from the border villages of Varang, Paletwa, Pakangwa and Mulaw in Myanmar&#39;s Chin state.

Lalsanglura said the refugees were grouped in the relief camps in two villages for administrative conveniences and also to ensure that all of them return to their homes after peace is restored in the area from where they came.&nbsp;

The refugees fled Myanmar after November 25 last year following a crackdown on Arakan rebels by the Myanmar Army

Over 1,400 Myanmarese nationals who took refuge in Mizoram's Lawngtlai district following clash between Arakan militants and the Army there in November last year have refused to return to their country, a senior police officer said today. The refugees who fled Myanmar since November 25 last year following a crackdown on Arakan rebels by the Myanmar Army in the border areas refused to go back claiming that they were "afraid" of the Myanmar Army personnel, Superintendent of Police of Lawngtlai, Lalsanglura said. "Though the fighting between the Myanmar Army and the Arakan insurgents had apparently stopped and no gunfires heard for almost a month, the people who took shelter in four villages along the Mizoram-Myanmar border - Laitlang, Dumzautlang, Zochachhuah and Hmawngbuchhuah, still refused to return to their respective villages," the SP said. The refugees were mainly from the border villages of Varang, Paletwa, Pakangwa and Mulaw in Myanmar's Chin state. Lalsanglura said the refugees were grouped in the relief camps in two villages for administrative conveniences and also to ensure that all of them return to their homes after peace is restored in the area from where they came.

Myanmarese refugees in Mizoram refusing to return: Police

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced Rs 90,000 crore for improving roads and national highways in the Northeast.&nbsp;

Modi announced made the announcement after i<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-visits-mizoram-inaugurates-tuirial-hydroelectric-power-project-26889">naugurating a </a>couple of infrastructure projects in Meghalaya and Mizoram.&nbsp;

&quot;It is said that the lack of connectivity is one of the biggest hurdles in the path of development of the North Eastern Region. &nbsp;My Government wants to do &#39;Transformation by Transportation&#39; through investment in infrastructure to change the face of the North Eastern Region,&quot; PM Modi noted during his address.

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It is said that the lack of connectivity is one of the biggest hurdles in the path of development of the North Eastern Region. My Government wants to do &#39;Transformation by Transportation&#39; through investment in infrastructure to change the face of the North Eastern Region: PM
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/941896222847021061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister also dedicated to the nation a 271-km two-lane national highway connecting Tura in western Meghalaya to the state capital Shillong.

The central government is reported to have sanctioned around 4,000-km of national highway (NH) across the Northeast at a cost of Rs 32,000 crore.

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We are committed to bring all the State Capitals of North East Region on the Rail map. The Government of India is executing 15 New Rail Line projects of 1385 kilometers length, at a cost of over Rs.47,000 crore: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/941896536954322944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&ldquo;Over the next 2-3 years, an investment of about Rs 60,000 crore is proposed under the Special Accelerated Road Development Project (SARDP) in the Northeast and an investment of Rs 30,000 crore under Bharatmala is proposed for development of national highways in northeastern states,&rdquo; PM Modi noted while addressing a rally.

(With inputs from PTI)

The central government is reported to have sanctioned around 4,000-km of national highway (NH) across the Northeast at a cost of Rs 32,000 crore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced Rs 90,000 crore for improving roads and national highways in the Northeast. Modi announced made the announcement after inaugurating a couple of infrastructure projects in Meghalaya and Mizoram. "It is said that the lack of connectivity is one of the biggest hurdles in the path of development of the North Eastern Region. My Government wants to do 'Transformation by Transportation' through investment in infrastructure to change the face of the North Eastern Region," PM Modi noted during his address. It is said that the lack of connectivity is one of the biggest hurdles in the path of development of the North Eastern Region. My Government wants to do 'Transformation by Transportation' through investment in infrastructure to change the face of the North Eastern Region: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 16, 2017 × The prime minister also dedicated to the nation a 271-km two-lane national highway connecting Tura in western Meghalaya to the state capital Shillong. The central government is reported to have sanctioned around 4,000-km of national highway (NH) across the Northeast at a cost of Rs 32,000 crore. We are committed to bring all the State Capitals of North East Region on the Rail map. The Government of India is executing 15 New Rail Line projects of 1385 kilometers length, at a cost of over Rs.47,000 crore: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 16, 2017 × “Over the next 2-3 years, an investment of about Rs 60,000 crore is proposed under the Special Accelerated Road Development Project (SARDP) in the Northeast and an investment of Rs 30,000 crore under Bharatmala is proposed for development of national highways in northeastern states,” PM Modi noted while addressing a rally. (With inputs from PTI)

PM Modi announces Rs 90,000 crore for roads, highways projects for northeast

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a trip to the North-east today addressing rallies and launching a couple of infrastructure projects in Meghalaya and Mizoram.&nbsp;

Earlier today, PM Modi inaugurated the Tuirial hydroelectric power project and addressed&nbsp;a&nbsp;rally in Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram.

While addressing a rally in Mizoram today PM Modi expressed his happiness on visiting the state.

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My visit to this beautiful state today, brings back fond memories of time spent with the people of Mizoram: PM Modi in Aizwal, also wishes people Merry Christmas &amp; Happy New Year. <a href="https://t.co/HZBtN6Tqxg">pic.twitter.com/HZBtN6Tqxg</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941890966230675456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&quot;My visit to this beautiful state today brings back fond memories of time spent with the people of Mizoram,&quot; he noted.&nbsp;

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You don&#39;t have to send your grievances to Delhi (central govt), authorities from Delhi will come to you themselves, we have named this policy as Ministry of DONER (Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region): PM Modi in Aizawl, Mizoram <a href="https://t.co/K0VOPzu9k7">pic.twitter.com/K0VOPzu9k7</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941891986918801408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&quot;You don&#39;t have to send your grievances to Delhi (central govt), authorities from Delhi will come to you themselves, we have named this policy as Ministry of DONER (Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region),&quot; PM noted.

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Besides electricity the reservoir water will also open new avenues for navigation. This will provide connectivity to remote villages. The huge reservoir, spread over an area of 45 square kilometres can also be used for development of fisheries: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/941893465633316864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister expressed his thoughts on the significance of the Tuirial hydroelectric power project and the benefits it will bring to the state.&nbsp;

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This project will boost eco-tourism and provide a source of assured drinking water supply: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/941893535258648576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister spoke volumes about encouraging the youth, empowering them, boosting the economic growth of the country and ensuring that fruit of all the hard work and labour reaches everyone.

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Vision of New India can be realized only if fruits of development reach all. Government plans to focus on around 115 districts which are relatively backward when evaluated on various indicators. This will benefit backward districts of North Eastern States including Mizoram: PM
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/941895755635113984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

'My visit to this beautiful state today brings back fond memories of time spent with the people of Mizoram,' noted PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a trip to the North-east today addressing rallies and launching a couple of infrastructure projects in Meghalaya and Mizoram. Earlier today, PM Modi inaugurated the Tuirial hydroelectric power project and addressed a rally in Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram. While addressing a rally in Mizoram today PM Modi expressed his happiness on visiting the state. My visit to this beautiful state today, brings back fond memories of time spent with the people of Mizoram: PM Modi in Aizwal, also wishes people Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. pic.twitter.com/HZBtN6Tqxg — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2017 × "My visit to this beautiful state today brings back fond memories of time spent with the people of Mizoram," he noted. You don't have to send your grievances to Delhi (central govt), authorities from Delhi will come to you themselves, we have named this policy as Ministry of DONER (Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region): PM Modi in Aizawl, Mizoram pic.twitter.com/K0VOPzu9k7 — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2017 × "You don't have to send your grievances to Delhi (central govt), authorities from Delhi will come to you themselves, we have named this policy as Ministry of DONER (Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region)," PM noted. Besides electricity the reservoir water will also open new avenues for navigation. This will provide connectivity to remote villages. The huge reservoir, spread over an area of 45 square kilometres can also be used for development of fisheries: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 16, 2017 × The prime minister expressed his thoughts on the significance of the Tuirial hydroelectric power project and the benefits it will bring to the state. This project will boost eco-tourism and provide a source of assured drinking water supply: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 16, 2017 × Prime Minister spoke volumes about encouraging the youth, empowering them, boosting the economic growth of the country and ensuring that fruit of all the hard work and labour reaches everyone. Vision of New India can be realized only if fruits of development reach all. Government plans to focus on around 115 districts which are relatively backward when evaluated on various indicators. This will benefit backward districts of North Eastern States including Mizoram: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 16, 2017 ×

PM Modi inaugurates Tuirial hydroelectric power project in Mizoram

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