Newmai News Network Aizawl | August 7 In what may be termed as a milestone in the history of Mizoram, the state's first medical college, Mizoram Institute of Medical Education and Research (MIMER), was inaugurated at Falkawn village, about 16 km south of Aizawl today. Mizoram Chief Minister, Lal Thanhawla inaugurated the medical college in a function held at the college campus. MIMER was established by the Mizoram government in collaboration with Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare at state's Referral Hospital. Speaking on the occasion, Lal Thanhawla said MIMER was the marvellous blessing of God. "We are extremely happy for God has done a great thing for us," Lal Thanhawla said. The five-time Mizoram Chief Minister and Congress leader said it was the fruit of the effort of his cabinet colleagues, MPs from Mizoram and officials and staffs of MIMER. The medical college, he stated, finally came into existence as an endeavour to carry out "healing ministry to work in the footstep of Jesus". The Chief Minister also expressed hope that the medical college would benefit many people and bring development in the health sector. Citing that Mizoram is the most peaceful state in the country, Lal Thanhawla credited the establishment of the medical college duly possible because of peace and tranquility. He also recollected how a 20-year long insurgency had affected the state, economically, politically and socially. Highlighting about the "commendable achievement" made by the state, Lal Thanhawla said it has become one the four highest GSDP states in the country and the state's per capita income is higher than the national average. He attributed the rapid growth of state economy to implementation of flagship programme NLUP. During 2016-17, while the national GDP growth stood at 7.6%, Mizoram achieved 9.1% GSDP growth, he added. Lal Thanhawla then claimed that Mizoram is the least malnourished state in the country. He added that the state government is taking effort to make Mizoram a gateway for trade and commerce between India and South East Asian nations. Mizoram Health minister, Lal Thanzara, who graced the occasion as guest of honour said, "It is a milestone in the history of Mizoram." He maintained that Mizoram entered a new chapter with the inauguration of MIMER to bring development in health sector. Apart from the Chief Minister and the Health minister, the inaugural function was attended by State Finance Minister, Lalsawta, Home minister, R. Lalzirliana, Agriculture minister KS Thanga and other cabinet ministers and MLAs, including many important officials. MIMER was established under the centrally sponsored scheme. The college will begin with initial intake of 100 seats out of which 70 is reserved for the state and 15 each for central pool quota and Non Resident Indians (NRI). So far, 73 students (62 under state quota and 11 under NRI quota) have been admitted in the college through NEET. Seat allotment under central pool quota is yet to be made. The last date for admission is August 30.