Aizawl: Mizoram CM Lalduhoma has said the state still has a long way to go in its development, adding that its strengths in literacy, social cohesion, unity and cooperation among its people would help it realise its potential.Lalduhoma made the remarks at an interactive meeting with former chief secretaries of the state at Aijal Club on Saturday. The meeting was held under the theme “Learning from the Past for a Resilient Future”.Addressing the gathering, the CM said the programme was not only an occasion to honour the contributions and dedicated service of former chief secretaries, but also an opportunity for serving officers to draw wisdom, inspiration and valuable lessons from their experiences.He said that while the challenges faced by the state may have changed over the years, the fundamental purpose of govt service — serving the people — remained unchanged. He called on govt officials to be guided by wisdom, integrity, self-discipline and hard work, emphasising that good governance required not only effective planning and commitment but also dedication to public service.He also highlighted key initiatives of the state govt, including the Handholding Scheme, Project Monitoring Committee, Resource Mobilisation Committee, e-Office, grievance redressal and digital land administration. He urged officers to work with renewed commitment to promote development and improve the quality of life of the people.Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena expressed gratitude to the former chief secretaries for their service, the challenges they had navigated and the experience they had gained over the years. He said the interaction was intended to provide serving officers, particularly younger officers, an opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and inspiration from their predecessors.Four former chief secretaries — M Lalmanzuala, Vanhela Pachuau, Lalnunmawia Chuaungo and Renu Sharma — attended the programme and were felicitated. Messages from former chief secretaries Lalkhama, F Pahnuna, Lalfak Zuala, Haukhum Hauzel and L Tochhong, who were unable to attend, were also read out by Meena.The former chief secretaries shared experiences from their respective tenures and interacted with serving officers through discussions and a question-and-answer session.The programme also featured presentations by Home Secretary Vanlalmawia and Planning Secretary David Lalthantluanga on various govt initiatives and governance at the state and district levels.
