PRESS RELEASE

NO.39/2025 (English)  

SIAHA, 9 April, 2025, Wednesday -  At 8:45 AM today, Nityanand Rai, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Government of India, visited Siaha, where a welcoming programme was organised at the Chief Executive Member's (CEM) Bungalow.

Prior to delivering his speech, the Union Minister engaged in discussions with representatives from all NGOs, political party leaders, and Executive Members (EM) at the MADC. He also interacted with the District Commissioner of Siaha and his staff, as well as Head of Offices under Mizoram Government and Head of Departments under the MADC at CEM conference hall. 

In his speech, Nityanand Rai shared, "I am from the state of Bihar, where I had a humble beginning, and I received my education in Hindi since primary school. Therefore, I will be speaking in Hindi, as it is my mother tongue and I am more fluent in it, despite my desire to address you all in English. I am fortunate to have been appointed with the blessing of PM Modi and Amit Shah as the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, and I am honoured to oversee the states in the Northeast region under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi's government." 

He continued, "I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and apologies to all who came out to welcome us yesterday. However, I must clarify that it was not our fault, but rather the weather, which caused changes in our schedule." 

Addressing his earlier discussions with leaders from Siaha District, the Minister remarked, "Before coming here to deliver my speech, I had the opportunity to engage with leaders from NGOs, political parties, and government Heads of Departments, as well as Executive Members at the MADC. We had a productive exchange on the challenges faced by the district. I will be bringing these issues to Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Additionally, I will take steps to ensure that the necessary actions are taken to address them."

The Minister highlighted the government's commitment to the development of the Northeast region, stating, "Since 2014, the government led by Prime Minister Modi has placed great emphasis on the development of the Northeast region. The Modi government strongly believes that if the Northeast is not developed, there is no place for development in India. As a result, the government has undertaken several initiatives to promote the growth of the region, which, after 10 years, is now advancing in much the same way as the rest of the country." 

Higlighting the Citizenship Amendment Bill and its impact on minorities, Nityanand Rai remarked, "When the Citizenship Amendment Bill was first introduced in Parliament, many political leaders opposed it. However, they have now come to recognise its significance for the protection of minorities in the country. We are building a nation that offers safety and refuge to all minorities worldwide. Many minorities, particularly Christians, have faced persecution in their home countries, and in consideration of this, the Union Government introduced the bill to offer them sanctuary in India, allowing them the freedom to practice their faith." 

The Minister further assured that he had learned about the issues facing Siaha District during his interactions and would take immediate action on his return to Delhi. 

Initially scheduled to arrive in Siaha at 3:30 PM on 9 April 2025, the minister's helicopter was unable to reach the destination due to adverse weather conditions and had to return. He arrived in Siaha earlier this morning. 

The felicitation programme was attended by all MDCs (MADC), former MLAs and MDCs, leaders from various political parties, office bearers of MTP, MCHP, MSO, MHP, MJS Siaha District, and officials from both MADC and the Mizoram Government. 

The programme was hosted by Ornella Khithie and MC. Beichônôchai, meanwhile, Delson Nôtlia, MDC & BJP National Secretary, Minority Affairs, translated the minister's speech at the event. 

M. Laikaw, Hon'ble Chief Executive Member (CEM), MADC, delivered the welcome address.

ISSUED BY:

Information & Publicity Department

Mara Autonomous District Council

Siaha.