Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga on Thursday said if the state’s resources are tapped effectively, it can become a torchbearer in the field of politics and economics.

Addressing the celebration ceremony of 34th Mizoram Statehood Day here, Zoramthanga said the state has been blessed with many assets. “We have enough resources, good climate and sufficient rainfall. We also have enough fallow lands and if all these assets are tapped effectively, we can become a role model for others in terms of development,” he said.

He said the state has great potential to revolutionise its economy in the primary sector as well as a conducive atmosphere to usher in all-round development.

“Mizoram is not only the most peaceful state in the country but also has a well-disciplined and regimented society, which is conducive for bringing in development.

God has destined the state to be a torchbearer in the field of politics and economics,” he said.

The former rebel leader-turned-politician also spoke of the 15-year-long peace efforts. He said 1986 was the right time to have a peace accord with a strong political power at the Centre and other essential factors.

He said the peace accord signed between the erstwhile underground Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Centre in June 1986 continues to be the most reliable and exemplary model of agreement.

He said when Mizoram attained statehood it was not like other states as special provisions to safeguard its culture and ethnic interest of the people were made.

“I believe that we are the torchbearer of peace in the region and we can continue to be a broker and mediator of peace in the neighbouring states and neighbouring countries,” he added.

Mizoram became the 23rd state of India in 1987 after the Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress government at the Centre signed the peace accord with the MNF on June 30, 1986, ending 20 years of insurgency in the state.