Mizoram Observes ‘Remna Ni,’ Marking 40 Years of the Historic Mizo Peace Accord

The Ruby Jubilee commemoration of Remna Ni, marking 40 years of historic Mizoram Peace Accord, was held today under the joint initiative of the Zoram Research Foundation and Aijal Club.

The event, themed "From the Frontlines of '66 to 40 Years of Peace", was graced by Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), who attended as the Chief Guest at BSI Hall, Khatla, Aizawl. The Governor formally launched the project titled "The Case Study of the Enduring Legacy of the Mizo Peace Accord".

In his address, Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh paid rich tributes to the significance of Remna Ni. He described the Mizoram Peace Accord as a remarkable and historic achievement in conflict resolution. He highlighted that even 40 years after the signing of the Accord, Mizoram has remained completely free from disturbance, calling it a remarkable accomplishment.

"There is progress without any hesitation. This peace process involves everyone and this achievement belongs to the people of Mizoram," he said. The Governor noted that the Accord stands as a shining example of reconciliation, statesmanship and democratic commitment. It successfully ended two decades of conflict and ushered in an era of peace, stability and development. He further observed that the success of the Mizoram Peace Accord has often been cited as a model of conflict resolution and peace-building not only in India’s Northeast but across the world. He urged the people of Mizoram not to take peace for granted, but to continuously understand, nurture and strengthen it.

The Governor also drew important lessons from history. Reflecting on the famine that struck Mizoram and emphasised the need for timely corrective measures to address people’s hardships. He stressed that authorities have a responsibility to promptly identify and resolve public grievances to prevent larger crises. He noted that after underground groups embraced the democratic process, Mizoram has become one of the most peaceful states in the country. Under sustained peace, democratic and developmental activities have flourished immensely.

The Governor commended the Zoram Research Foundation and Aijal Club for organising the Remna Ni Ruby Jubilee Observance, describing their efforts as praiseworthy. He expressed hope that the event and the launched project would provide significant value to policymakers and contribute meaningfully to informed policy-making, a deeper understanding of peace-building and nation-building, and the continued strengthening of peace and development in the state. While encouraging the people to step out of their comfort zones, he said that, "Community doesn't develop by remaining insular. We need to go out of our comfort zone, learn, forge alliances and get better ideas to develop our land and people. We have tremendous talent and in the spirit of the Peace Accord, we must harness this talent," he added. He further called upon all to work collectively to uphold the objectives and legacy of the Mizoram Peace Accord.

As part of the Ruby Jubilee commemoration, a special premiere screening of the "Mizo Peace Accord Documentary Series" produced by StratNewsGlobal was held. A special conversation followed with veteran journalist, conflict reporter and strategic analyst Nitin A. Gokhale. Insightful remarks were also shared by author and filmmaker Sanjoy Hazarika.

The observance also featured a session titled "Frontlines of the Past: Conversation with Veteran Press Corp", attended by distinguished veterans including - C. Lalrosanga, IIS (Retd.), Former MP (Lok Sabha) and Former Director General of Doordarshan; L.R. Sailo, Former Director, Information & Public Relations Department; Mrs Lalramliani Hnamte, Former Announcer & Newsreader, All India Radio and D.R. Zirliana, Former Editor, Mizo Aw Daily Newspaper. (DIPR Mizoram)