Lunglei district in Mizoram has achieved a prestigious national honour, being named the best district in the country for its exceptional efforts in promoting accessibility and inclusion. The district was awarded the National Award 2025 for its work under the Accessible India Campaign.
President Confers Honour at International Day Event
The award was formally presented by President Droupadi Murmu during a ceremony in New Delhi on Wednesday. The event marked the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Deputy Commissioner Navneet Mann accepted the award on behalf of Lunglei district, receiving national recognition for its transformative initiatives.
Project LEAP: A Model for National Inclusion
Officials credit the district's success to its flagship program, known as 'Project LEAP'. The acronym stands for Lunglei's Empowerment for Access and Equity for All Persons. Launched under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Navneet Mann, this comprehensive project has positioned Lunglei as a national model.
The core mission of Project LEAP is to systematically dismantle physical and social barriers. It focuses on developing an inclusive ecosystem that empowers persons with disabilities across the entire district. Through this initiative, public spaces, buildings, and services are being transformed to ensure equal access for all citizens.
Building a Barrier-Free Future
The award underscores a significant achievement in governance and social welfare. By winning in the 'best district' category, Lunglei has demonstrated how focused policy implementation can lead to tangible, life-changing results. The recognition validates the district administration's commitment to building a truly accessible and equitable society.
This national accolade is expected to inspire other districts across India to adopt similar measures. The success of Project LEAP provides a replicable blueprint for integrating accessibility into the core of urban and rural planning, ensuring that development is inclusive by design.
