Aizawl, Apr 30: Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) Antar Singh Arya, along with Commission Members Dr Asha Lakra, Jatothu Hussain, and Nirupam Chakma, visited Siaha on Tuesday to review tribal welfare initiatives and interact with local leaders and communities.

The NCST team arrived at Siaha Helipad around 2:30 PM and was welcomed by district officials. A felicitation programme was organised at the Chief Executive Member’s (CEM) Bungalow, where Deputy Chief Executive Member of the Mara Autonomous District Council (MADC), S Lalremthanga, welcomed the delegation. He appealed to the Commission to address the developmental needs of Siaha district and promote progress in the region.

Deputy Commissioner VL Hruaizela Khiangte appreciated the Commission’s continuous efforts for the upliftment of tribal communities and thanked them for visiting the southernmost part of Mizoram. He also presented a brief profile of the district.

In his address, NCST Chairman Antar Singh Arya praised the smooth organisation of the event and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the all-round development of tribals across the country. He highlighted the support of the Prime Minister and President in promoting tribal welfare and acknowledged the contributions of past leaders in the establishment of autonomous district councils, which help preserve the cultural identity of tribal communities.

Arya urged all stakeholders to work sincerely for the development of the district and encouraged students present at the event to focus on their education and leadership potential. As part of the programme, he planted a Cherry Blossom seedling in honour of his mother under a central government scheme.

The visit concluded with an interaction session involving local NGO leaders and representatives from the Mara and Lai Autonomous District Councils. The NCST delegation returned to Aizawl later the same day.