PRESS RELEASE
No.
19/2025-2026
NCST
Full Commission Graces 53rd CADC Day
Kamalanagar,
29 April 2025: The full Commission of the National Commission for
Scheduled Tribes (NCST), Government of India, visited the Chakma Autonomous
District Council today, adding special significance to the celebration of the
Council’s 53rd Day. This marks the first-ever visit of the full NCST Commission
to the CADC.
The
NCST delegation, led by Hon’ble Chairperson Shri Antar Singh Arya, comprised
Hon’ble Members Shri Nirupam Chakma, Shri Jatothu Hussain, and Smt. Asha Lakra.
Upon arrival at Kamalanagar, the delegation was accorded a warm and traditional
welcome, featuring Chakma cultural performances and customary hospitality.
The
53rd CADC Day celebration commenced in the morning at the CADC Secretariat
Complex with a ceremonial programme. Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma, Hon’ble Chief
Executive Member, hoisted the Indian National Flag alongside the CADC Flag in
the presence of Council Members, former leaders, and officials. Floral tributes
were offered in honour of the visionary leaders who spearheaded the autonomy
movement of the Chakmas in Mizoram.
The
theme for this year’s celebration was “Youth Empowerment,” under which a
special Yuva Samvad (Dialogue with the Youth) session was organised. The
session witnessed enthusiastic participation from youth leaders.
Addressing
the gathering, Hon’ble Chairperson Shri Antar Singh Arya remarked, “Today is
not only a historic day for the Chakma community but also a moment that
reflects the victory of our cultural, social, and political struggles.”
He
further stated, “The NCST remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the
rights of tribal communities and advancing their welfare. As a Commission, we
stand with you to ensure your voice is heard at the highest levels and that
appropriate measures are taken to promote cultural, economic, and social
development.” He added that the concerns of the Chakma community have been
incorporated into the NCST’s Annual Report submitted to the Hon’ble President
of India for consideration by the Union Government.
In a
remarkable announcement, Shri Antar Singh Arya offered a promising opportunity
for Chakma youths. He informed that the NCST has decided to sponsor 50 Chakma
youths (25 boys and 25 girls) for a one-year training programme in merchant
naval course during the current academic session, with assured placement upon
successful completion. Discussions have already been held with the National
Shipping Corporation in this regard. He assured that the programme would
continue annually, with a long-term target of benefiting up to 500 Chakma
youths under the initiative.
On
behalf of the CADC, Dg. Molin Kumar Chakma submitted a memorandum to the NCST
delegation, outlining the major developmental priorities of the region. The
demands included improvement of road connectivity, establishment of educational
institutions, and enhancement of healthcare infrastructure. The Hon’ble
Chairperson assured that the NCST would actively take up the matters with the
concerned authorities.
The
Chakma Autonomous District Council was formed on 29th April 1972
through the trifurcation of the erstwhile Pawi-Lakher Regional Council (PLRC).
It was created under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India to
safeguard and promote the unique ethnic and cultural identity of the Chakmas of
Mizoram. However, a significant section of the Chakma population residing in
the northwestern region of the state still remains outside its jurisdiction.
Published by: Information & Public Relations
Department, Chakma Autonomous District Council.
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