March 24th, Champhai: Speaking as the Chief Guest, Champhai Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Aaquib, IAS, urged local journalists to combat digital misinformation through accurate and responsible reporting. Addressing rural development, DC Aaquib highlighted the proposed Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
He explained that the new framework upgrades MGNREGA by increasing guaranteed rural wage employment from 100 to 125 days, alongside improved payment and tech-based monitoring systems. The Deputy Commissioner also raised urgent concerns over Mizoram's alarming HIV/AIDS prevalence, which significantly surpasses the national average. Driven by unsafe sexual practices, the crisis requires serious collective action. He strongly urged the media to spearhead sustained awareness campaigns, particularly targeting the student community to promote preventive measures.
The workshop, directed by Dr. Rajeev Lourembam of PIB Aizawl, was also attended by MJA Champhai President Lalhlupuia and MJA Khawzawl President Lalrotluanga Ralte.