Is Amit Shah Supporting Mizoram's Plan for a Mizo Territorial Army to Combat Drug Trafficking?
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Synopsis
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has shown his support for Mizoram's initiative to form a Mizo Territorial Army battalion. This crucial step aims to combat drug trafficking and enhance national security while providing employment opportunities for local youth.
Key Takeaways
- Amit Shah endorses the Mizo Territorial Army initiative.
- The MTA aims to tackle drug trafficking and bolster national security.
- Chief Minister Lalduhoma seeks employment opportunities for youth.
- National security concerns are heightened by unfenced borders.
- The Narcotics Control Bureau proposes local office establishment.
Aizawl, May 25 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed his support for the initiative by the Mizoram government to form a Mizo Territorial Army (MTA) battalion aimed at tackling drug trafficking and various law enforcement challenges, according to officials on Sunday.
A senior representative from the Mizoram government stated that during Chief Minister Lalduhoma's recent trip to New Delhi, several pressing matters were discussed with the Home Minister.
“The Chief Minister conveyed his appreciation to the Home Minister for endorsing his proposal to set up a Mizo Territorial Army battalion, labeling it as a vital step to generate employment for Mizo youth while enhancing national security,” the official noted.
Shah expressed profound admiration for Mizoram, referring to it as “one of the most serene states in India” during their meeting.
Concerning the transfer of Lengpui Airport to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Shah pledged his commitment to facilitate and accelerate the process as required.
The officials also evaluated the status of the Mizoram Maintenance of Household Registers Bill, 2019, which was approved by the Mizoram Legislative Assembly during the previous Mizo National Front administration and is still awaiting the President of India's approval.
For an extended period, the state government has been appealing to the central government for assistance in establishing the MTA to combat the illicit smuggling of drugs and other contraband flowing from Myanmar.
“The state is facing a shortage of personnel to effectively tackle narcotics trafficking across the border. Previously, proposals were submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding the formation of the MTA,” he explained.
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has recently suggested the establishment of its zonal office in Mizoram.
NCB Director General Anurag Garg met with the Chief Minister and recommended setting up a fully operational NCB zonal office in the state, stressing the necessity for additional staff familiar with the local language and the region's dynamics.
Lalduhoma, a former IPS officer, during the discussion with Garg, explored various strategies to mitigate the drug trade and the usage of narcotics among the youth.
The Chief Minister informed the NCB DG that he had previously requested the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to allow the state government to form the MTA to bolster vigilance along the state's unguarded borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
Mizoram shares a 510 km border with Myanmar and a 318 km border with Bangladesh, and these unprotected frontiers are notorious for the smuggling of a variety of drugs, including highly addictive methamphetamine tablets, foreign cigarettes, areca nuts, firearms, and endangered wildlife and their parts.
Point of View
The formation of a Mizo Territorial Army represents a proactive step towards addressing these issues. As a national editor-in-chief, it is crucial to recognize the importance of strengthening local law enforcement and national security initiatives, which are vital for the welfare of all citizens.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Mizo Territorial Army?
The Mizo Territorial Army aims to combat drug trafficking and enhance law and order in the region, while also providing employment opportunities for local youth.
Who is supporting the establishment of the Mizo Territorial Army?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed strong support for the Mizoram government's proposal to establish the Mizo Territorial Army.
What issues were discussed during the meeting between Amit Shah and the Mizoram Chief Minister?
They discussed the establishment of the Mizo Territorial Army, the status of the Mizoram Maintenance of Household Registers Bill, and the transfer of Lengpui Airport to the Airports Authority of India.
How does drug trafficking affect Mizoram?
Mizoram faces significant challenges related to drug trafficking due to its borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, which are hotspots for smuggling various illegal substances.
What actions have been taken by the Narcotics Control Bureau in Mizoram?
The Narcotics Control Bureau has proposed to establish a zonal office in Mizoram to enhance local efforts in combating drug trafficking.
