Aizawl, April 28: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review border vigilance and development in Mizoram’s Siaha district. The session, held virtually from the Aizawl Secretariat due to inclement weather disrupting his travel plans, brought together senior officials including Siaha Deputy Commissioner VL Hruaizela Khiangte, heads of offices, and representatives from the Mara Autonomous District Council.

During the meeting, Kumar emphasized the importance of seamless coordination among Assam Rifles, state police, district administration, and village councils, noting that such synergy is vital for ensuring both security and welfare of border residents. The Deputy Commissioner presented an overview of the district’s current status, while the Superintendent of Police briefed the minister on law and order, highlighting strict vigilance against illegal cross-border activities, particularly drug and arms trafficking.

Departmental officials outlined ongoing development initiatives and raised key administrative challenges. Kumar assured them of prompt follow-up action from the Centre, advising the submission of comprehensive reports.

The minister, who arrived in Aizawl on Monday for a two-day visit, also held a meeting with senior officials and security forces to review border security and development initiatives across the state. Mizoram Home Secretary David Lalthantluanga and Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Secretary Ramdinliani detailed the progress of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, while addressing logistical hurdles and remedial measures.

Representatives from various departments presented their initiatives and resource requirements, while the DIGs of BSF and Assam Rifles reported on border security management along Mizoram’s international borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh. They discussed issues relating to border fencing and measures for the development of border villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme.

Mizoram shares a 510-km-long international border with Myanmar to the east and a 318-km border with Bangladesh to the west, making border vigilance and development a critical priority for the state.