Aizawl, Jan 26 (Reporter) Mizoram celebrated the 76th Republic Day with enthusiasm across the state, with the main event held in Aizawl where Governor Gen. (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd) unfurled the National Flag. The ceremony included a salute by 23 parade contingents. In his address, the Governor emphasised the government’s flagship Bana Kaih (Hand Holding) Scheme, aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and farmers to contribute to Vikshit Bharat @ 2047. Under this scheme, Progress Partners will receive loans from partner banks—SBI, MRB, and MCAB—with the government acting as a guarantor. He also highlighted the Chief Minister’s Special Category Scheme, which offers financial assistance of up to Rs 1 lakh, and announced plans to implement Minimum Support Price (MSP) for ginger, turmeric, broom, and Mizo Bird-eye chilli. The Governor outlined infrastructure achievements, including 194 km of new roads, 264 km of blacktopping, and 98 km of high-strength concrete roads completed by the Public Works Department. He noted education sector improvements, such as the construction of 14 school buildings, 35 classrooms, and 43 toilet blocks, along with plans for a state-owned university under the National Education Policy 2020. Healthcare advancements include the upgrade of three health clinics and seven PHCs, with 41 health sub-centres, three PHCs, and one sub-divisional hospital under construction. Eight towns achieved ODF+ status, while three districts attained ODF Plus Model status. Under PMAY-G, 25,361 houses were completed, with 4,605 still under construction. Other highlights included the introduction of the Mizoram Electric Vehicle Policy, 2024, and plans for a PM Ekta Mall in Aizawl’s Chawnpui locality. Sports initiatives were strengthened through a revamped Mizoram Sports Incentive Cash Award Scheme and preparations for the 2036 Olympics. Technological strides included an online land record management system. In agriculture, a new animal feed plant in Lengpui, an edible oil processing plant in Falkawn, and three fish hatcheries were noted. The Governor lauded law enforcement efforts, with Mizoram Police seizing over 12.58 lakh kg of illegal areca nuts and making 173 arrests. He also highlighted the fight against drug trafficking, which resulted in 4,568 arrests and 4,619 cases last year. Excise & Narcotics stations were recently established in Khawzawl, Hnahthial, and Saitual districts to strengthen anti-drug efforts. The Governor called on NGOs, religious organisations, and civil society to join hands in combating the drug menace while recognising the state’s achievements in promoting peace, development, and unity...////...