Aizawl: A new chapter in Mizoram’s printing and publishing industry was written today with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Color Web Offset Press. The event, which marks a significant milestone in the state’s journey toward self-sufficiency, was graced by Dr. Kenneth Chawngliana, Vice Chairman of the Mizoram State Planning Board, as the Chief Guest. The ceremony was chaired by Dr. Lalrinchhana, Principal Adviser cum Additional Secretary.
The event began with a devotional led by Lalchungnunga, followed by a report on the project delivered by Samuel Lalmalsawma, Principal Scientific Officer at MISTIC. A technical report was also presented by the Mizoram Press Owners Association (MPOA), highlighting the importance of the new printing facility.
In his speech, Dr. Kenneth Chawngliana emphasized the importance of developing Mizoram’s own printing infrastructure. He noted the long-standing challenges posed by outsourcing printing, particularly of textbooks, which were often printed outside the state. This outsourcing not only incurred significant costs but also caused delays in the availability of essential educational materials. He mentioned that the Mizoram Board of School Education had spent a staggering Rs. 7,27,15,812 on a tender for SCERT textbooks in August 2017 alone, illustrating the financial burden.
Dr. Chawngliana pointed out that the establishment of the new Color Web Offset Press would resolve the persistent issues related to outsourcing, significantly reducing the cost of textbook printing. Moreover, it will eliminate delays in the timely distribution of textbooks, ensuring that students receive their learning materials on time every year.
“This facility will not only reduce the cost of printing but will also ensure that our students no longer face delays in receiving textbooks,” he said. “This is a step forward in making Mizoram self-sufficient in the printing sector.”
The Chief Guest also highlighted the broader impact of this initiative, particularly its potential to create employment opportunities for the youth of Mizoram. With millions of rupees previously spent outsourcing printing jobs to other states, this new facility will keep those funds within the local economy, benefiting the community and fostering skills development for the younger generation.
In conclusion, Dr. Chawngliana lauded the efforts of the Mizoram Press Owners Association (MPOA), noting that the new press would not only address challenges in textbook printing but would also mark the beginning of a new era of self-reliance in the state’s publishing and printing industries. He stressed that this milestone would strengthen Mizoram’s economic sustainability, improve the education system, and provide meaningful employment to its youth, empowering the community as a whole.
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