Organised by the 2 Mizo Battalion NCC, the week-long event — running from May 5 to 11 — aims to raise awareness about the NCC programme and encourage greater youth participation across the North Eastern region. Cadets from multiple northeastern states are participating in the camp.
The Minister was accompanied by Lunglei High Powered Committee (HPC) Vice Chairman Pu V. Malsawmtluanga and Lunglei Municipal Council (LMC) Vice Chairman Pu K. Lalrinawma, along with senior district officials. Commanding Officer of 2 Mizo Battalion NCC, Col. Sagar K. Mohanty, received the chief guest alongside NCC officers and army personnel. NCC cadets accorded the Minister a formal Guard of Honour upon her arrival.
Minister Calls NCC a Platform for Nation-Building
Addressing the gathering, Minister Pi Lalrinpuii welcomed the decision to host the event in Lunglei, describing it as a reflection of the Mizoram government's commitment to balanced regional development.
"This programme reflects our government's commitment to ensuring that development opportunities reach all corners of Mizoram," the Minister said, also referencing the proposed establishment of Mizoram State University at Lunglei as part of broader efforts to uplift southern Mizoram.
Invoking the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, she underscored the critical role of youth empowerment in shaping India's future. She described the NCC as an ideal institution for building disciplined, responsible, and nationally-conscious citizens.
"I encourage our cadets to equip themselves with modern knowledge and skills, to adapt to evolving global realities, and to contribute meaningfully to national integration and nation-building," she said.
Felicitation, Cultural Events, and Exhibitions
A felicitation ceremony was held to honour NCC alumni, individuals who have rendered distinguished services to NCC and youth development, and state-level achievers. Minister Pi Lalrinpuii personally presented awards and mementoes on behalf of the NCC.
The event featured a spirited performance by the 23 Assam Rifles Pipe Band, followed by cultural presentations by NCC cadets. An evening concert featuring prominent local artists was also scheduled as part of the two-day fest.
The Minister later toured the event's exhibition stalls, interacting with exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of displays. Stalls at the venue featured arms and equipment demonstrations by the Border Security Force (BSF), Assam Rifles, and Territorial Army Battalion, alongside information booths run by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA).
Adding a cultural dimension to the fest, exhibitors also showcased traditional Mizo handloom and handicraft products, as well as a variety of authentic Mizo cuisine — drawing considerable interest from attendees.
Parasailing Camp Adds Aerial Adventure
The Parasailing Camp, which kicked off on May 5 at the 2nd Battalion MAP Ground in Luangmual, has been providing cadets with hands-on aerial adventure training — a first of its kind in the state. The NCC Fest component was held across May 8 and 9 at C. Ṭhuamluaia Mual.
Interactive sessions with senior government and military officials, as well as meetings with NCC alumni, formed the core of the fest's programme, offering cadets direct mentorship and networking opportunities.
The event is widely seen as a landmark initiative in Mizoram, particularly for Lunglei — a district in the southern part of the state that has historically received fewer large-scale institutional events compared to the state capital, Aizawl.
