Mizoram Commemorates 39th State Day with Solemn Observances
Mizoram marked its 39th State Day on Friday with a series of prayer and worship services held throughout the state. While no official government function was organized, the day was observed with deep reverence and spiritual reflection across all districts.
Statewide Prayer Gatherings Organized by Committee
The State Day of Prayer committee coordinated mass prayer gatherings at Lammual in Aizawl—the former Assam Rifles parade ground—and in all district headquarters. This committee was formed by Power & Electricity Minister F Rodingliana in collaboration with church leaders representing various denominations.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma addressed the congregation assembled at Lammual, accompanied by his cabinet colleagues, legislators, and senior government officials. The theme selected for this year's State Day of Prayer was “Come, Let Us Rebuild”, drawing inspiration from Nehemiah 2:17.
Historical Significance of Mizoram's Statehood
Mizoram attained full statehood on February 20, 1987, becoming India's 23rd state. This milestone followed the signing of the historic Mizo Accord in Delhi on June 30, 1986. The accord was negotiated between the erstwhile underground Mizo National Front (MNF) led by Laldenga, the central government, and the Mizoram government.
The path to statehood was marked by significant historical challenges. Originally a district under Assam and later a Union Territory, Mizoram endured two decades of armed insurgency after the MNF declared independence on March 1, 1966. The 1986 accord effectively ended years of turmoil, with MNF cadres laying down their arms and paving the way for lasting peace and constitutional recognition.
This landmark agreement also led to constitutional amendments granting Mizoram special powers under Article 371G. The formal inauguration of statehood was conducted by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on February 20, 1987, in the presence of Governor Hiteswar Saikia, Chief Minister Laldenga, and other dignitaries.
Coinciding Observances and National Greetings
Interestingly, Mizoram's State Day coincides with several ethnic observances including Chin National Day, Zomi Nam Ni (Zomi National Day), and Laimi Phun Ni (Lai National Day). These days are commemorated by ethnic Mizos residing in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur.
National leaders extended their greetings to the people of Mizoram on this significant occasion. Messages were conveyed by President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and BJP National President Nitin Nabin.
Prime Minister's Social Media Message
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his greetings on social media platform X, stating: “Greetings to the people of Mizoram on their Statehood Day. Mizoram is widely known for its striking natural beauty and enduring cultural traditions. Its strong community spirit and gracious people embody values of kindness and compassion. The rich Mizo heritage, expressed through tradition, music and other aspects of everyday life is very inspiring. May Mizoram advance on the path of growth and achieve new milestones in the years ahead.”
The observances across Mizoram reflected both the historical significance of the state's formation and the continuing importance of spiritual and community values in Mizo society.
