In Mizoram, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said that the youth has an important role to play in strengthening nationalism and patriotism for the holistic development and progress of the nation. The Chief Minister was speaking at the closing ceremony of the “Youth 20 Mizoram Meet on Nationalism, Patriotism and Development” organized by the Department of Sports & Youth Services, Government of Mizoram at Pachhunga University College Multipurpose Hall in Aizawl today.

Saying that the Mizo people have been settling in Mizoram since time immemorial, Mr. Zoramthanga said that it is the duty of one and all to uphold the spirit of nationalism and patriotism for the good and betterment of the country. He said that the idea of nationalism is not about despising others but the deepest love for one own’s land and its people.

Dwelling on Mizo nationalism, the Chief Minister narrated the 20-long years of the “Mizo Movement” which led to the signing of the “Mizo Accord” in 1986. He said that what keeps on going strong in Mizoram is the spirit of Mizo nationalism. Mr. Zoramthanga said that Mizoram acts as the centrifugal force in upholding Mizo nationalism for all “Zo” ethnic people.

Sports & Youth Services Minister Robert Romawia Royte said that the spirit of nationalism and patriotism must be inculcated in the youth for the progress and development of the nation.