Territorial Army Celebrates 99 Years of Padma Shri Awardee and Veteran Journalist in Aizawl
Synopsis
On March 25, the Territorial Army celebrated the remarkable 99th birthday of Padma Shri awardee Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau, honoring his extensive contributions to journalism and community service.
Key Takeaways
Havildar Pachuau celebrated his 99th birthday.
He is a Padma Shri awardee for contributions to journalism.
Recognized as India's oldest working journalist .
Contributed significantly to community development in Mizoram.
His life is an inspiration for future generations.
Aizawl, March 25 (NationPress) The Territorial Army, supported by the 23 Sector Assam Rifles, marked the extraordinary 99th birthday of Padma Shri recipient Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau (Retd), a prominent veteran of the 3rd Battalion, The Assam Regiment.
According to Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, at 99 years, Havildar Pachuau exemplifies the greatest traditions of the Indian Army.
His service with distinction in the 3rd Battalion, The Assam Regiment, included active participation in World War II. Following his voluntary retirement after 17 years of service, he embarked on a remarkable civilian journey in journalism, literature, and community service.
In 2021, he received the Padma Shri in acknowledgment of his exceptional contributions to Literature and Education (Journalism).
Recognized as India's oldest active journalist, he has dedicated his life to fostering truthful journalism, social consciousness, and community upliftment in Mizoram, Lt Col Rawat noted.
Under the theme “A Remarkable Century, A Remarkable Life,” members of the Territorial Army, Assam Regiment, and Assam Rifles paid their respects to the veteran.
Family members and former servicemen participated in the celebrations.
His life serves as an inspiration for future generations, strengthening the enduring connection between veterans and active soldiers.
Pachuau began his journalism career in 1953 with a local publication and became a leading figure in the Mizoram Journalists Association (MJA), holding the presidency for three terms.
The Mizoram government’s Information and Public Relations Department and the MJA recognized him as the “oldest working journalist in the country” in October 2016.
Additionally, he co-founded the Association for Voluntary Blood Donation (AVBD), initially serving as its general secretary and later as its president multiple times since 2001.
He enlisted in the Army in 1945 during the concluding stages of World War II, receiving numerous military accolades.
Moreover, he was a key delegate in the peace negotiations between the former underground Mizo National Front (MNF) and the central government in the early 1980s.
In the 1990s, Pachuau established the Mizoram Social Defence Union, actively campaigning against alcohol and drug abuse.
Point of View
Marking his 99th birthday with recognition from the Territorial Army. His life symbolizes the enduring legacy of veterans and their influence on society, emphasizing the importance of journalism in fostering social awareness.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau?
Havildar Lalbiakthanga Pachuau is a 99-year-old veteran journalist and Padma Shri awardee, recognized for his contributions to literature and education in India.
What is the significance of the Territorial Army's celebration?
The celebration honors Pachuau's legacy and contributions to journalism, reinforcing the connection between veterans and active military personnel.
What achievements has Pachuau accomplished in journalism?
Pachuau is acknowledged as India's oldest working journalist and has played a vital role in promoting truthful reporting and community development in Mizoram.
What other organizations has Pachuau been involved with?
He co-founded the Association for Voluntary Blood Donation and the Mizoram Social Defence Union, actively addressing social issues like alcohol and drug abuse.
What awards has Pachuau received?
He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2021 for his outstanding contributions to literature and education, particularly in journalism.
