Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on December 17 expressed concern that Mizo students are lagging behind Scheduled Tribe students from other states in clearing national-level competitive examinations, even though Mizoram has already been declared the country’s first fully literate state.
The Chief Minister was speaking at the inauguration of the 4th Winter Cum Cultural Fest at Serchhip Government College. The inaugural event was held at the college campus in Serchhip, where he attended as Chief Guest and MLA. The festival, organised annually, brings students, faculty and the local community together for cultural performances, stalls and activities that run over several days.
In his address, Lalduhoma praised Serchhip College for securing NAAC Grade A in its recent evaluation. He said the college should work towards higher standards and continue to improve in academics and community outreach. The Chief Minister said festivals like this help to build unity among students and local residents. He added that the money collected during the fest would be used by various student clubs, and these efforts would help strengthen college activities through two main channels of funding. 
The Chief Minister said he wants to spend more time with young people and stressed the importance of discipline and ambition. Referring to Mizoram’s 2025 literacy achievement, he said it was worrying that many tribal students from the state were not appearing in national competitive examinations despite the reservation system. He warned that quotas must not remain unused due to lack of preparation or low confidence.
To support students, the Chief Minister said Mizoram State University is being strengthened. He also informed that new classes at Mizoram Engineering College in Lunglei are planned for the next academic session. He added that the government has expanded its work and introduced transparent methods in administration. He shared that support prices for five crops have been raised to help farmers. Instead of distributing funds without planning, the government is now offering collateral-free Bana Kaih loans to those who present reliable projects.
Lalduhoma also highlighted government initiatives to address drug abuse and unemployment. He said skill training is being offered so that young people can take up entrepreneurship and become self-reliant. He assured the gathering that unemployed youth would not be left out and that sincere efforts are underway for their welfare. During the programme, prizes and incentives were distributed, including interest-free rewards for winners of a slogan competition.
Festival Convenor and Principal C. Laldintluanga thanked the Chief Minister, stating that such events are important for student development and community participation. He said the fest serves as a platform for creativity, practical learning and entrepreneurial thinking.
