Aizawl, Jan 15: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Wednesday said the state government is taking steps to encourage more youths to enlist in the Indian Army and other security forces.

Speaking at an event in Aizawl, Lalduhoma referred to the Mizo community’s participation in India’s freedom movement, World War II, and wars after Independence. He said the government aims to increase youth participation in the armed forces and is working towards that objective.

The chief minister said the Mizo Territorial Army has been established and recruitment for it is currently underway. He also expressed concern over low enrollment at the state’s only Sainik School located at Chhingchhip in Serchhip district, and urged eligible students to seek admission to the institution.

Lalduhoma further said the state government has strengthened welfare measures for war veterans and ex-servicemen, including free medical treatment at Zoram Medical College and Hospital and Zemabawk Cancer Hospital in Aizawl.