Mizoram General Knowledge

Mizoram, one of the eight states of North-eastern India, is known for its scenic hills, rich tribal culture, and high literacy rate. It is a land of rolling mountains, dense bamboo forests, and vibrant traditions, with a distinct identity shaped by its geography, history, and social harmony. The term Mizoram literally means “Land of the Mizos” (Mi = people, Zo = hill, Ram = land).

Geographical Overview

Mizoram is located in the extreme south-eastern corner of the North Eastern Region, sharing borders with Tripura, Assam, and Manipur, and international boundaries with Bangladesh (west) and Myanmar (east and south).

• Capital: Aizawl
• Area: Approximately 21,081 square kilometres
• Coordinates: Between 21°56′N and 24°31′N latitude, and 92°16′E and 93°26′E longitude
• Statehood: Attained on 20 February 1987 (became the 23rd state of India)
• Official Language: Mizo (Lushai) and English
• Other Languages: Hindi, Mara, Lai, Hmar, and Chakma
• Neighbouring Countries: Bangladesh (318 km) and Myanmar (404 km)

Mizoram is largely mountainous, with ridges running north to south. The average elevation is around 1,000 metres above sea level. The Blue Mountain (Phawngpui), located in the south, is the highest peak at 2,157 metres.
Important rivers include:

• Tlawng (Dhaleswari) – the longest river in the state
• Tuirial
• Tuivawl
• Chhimtuipui (Kolodyne) – flows into Myanmar
• Khawthlangtuipui (Karnaphuli) – flows towards Bangladesh

The state has a humid subtropical climate, with heavy rainfall (average 2,500 mm per year) and mild winters.

Historical Background

The early history of Mizoram is closely tied to the migration of the Mizo tribes from the Chin Hills of Myanmar around the 16th–18th centuries. These tribes established chieftainships and settled in hill villages.
During the British period, Mizoram came under British administration following the Lushai Expedition (1871–72), after which it was annexed and integrated into British India as the Lushai Hills District under the Assam Province.
After India’s independence in 1947:

• The Lushai Hills became part of Assam as an autonomous district under the Sixth Schedule (1952).
• The Mizo National Front (MNF), led by Laldenga, launched an armed movement in 1966 demanding independence.
• The Mizo Accord was signed in 1986 between the MNF and the Government of India, ending two decades of insurgency.
• Mizoram became a full-fledged state on 20 February 1987, with Laldenga as its first Chief Minister.

Administrative and Political Structure

• Governor: Constitutional head appointed by the President of India.
• Chief Minister: Head of the state government.
• Legislative Assembly: 40 members (unicameral).
• Parliamentary Representation:
  • Lok Sabha: 1 seat
  • Rajya Sabha: 1 seat
• Judiciary: Falls under the jurisdiction of the Gauhati High Court (Aizawl Bench).

The state is divided into 11 districts:

1. Aizawl
2. Lunglei
3. Serchhip
4. Champhai
5. Mamit
6. Kolasib
7. Lawngtlai
8. Saiha
9. Hnahthial
10. Khawzawl
11. Saitual

Demographics

According to the Census of India 2011:

• Population: 1,091,014
• Density: 52 persons per sq km (one of the lowest in India)
• Sex Ratio: 976 females per 1,000 males
• Literacy Rate: 91.33% (second highest in India after Kerala)
• Urban Population: Over 50% of the total population (highly urbanised)

The major ethnic group is the Mizo (including several sub-tribes such as Lusei, Hmar, Ralte, Paite, Lai, and Mara). Minority communities include Chakma, Bru (Reang), and Nepali settlers.
Religion:

• Christianity – about 87% (predominantly Presbyterian and Baptist)
• Buddhism – practised mainly by the Chakmas
• Hinduism and Islam – small minorities

Economy and Agriculture

Mizoram’s economy is predominantly agrarian, though service and industrial sectors are gradually expanding. The terrain and shifting cultivation (jhum) shape its agricultural patterns.
Major economic features:

• Agriculture: Main crops include rice, maize, pulses, oilseeds, ginger, turmeric, and fruits such as banana and passion fruit.
• Horticulture: Rapidly developing; Mizoram is known for pineapple, orange, and banana cultivation.
• Bamboo and Forest Products: Bamboo covers nearly 60% of Mizoram’s forest area and supports cottage industries.
• Industries: Handloom, handicrafts, food processing, and bamboo-based industries.
• Energy: Hydro-electric and solar power projects are being developed.
• Infrastructure: The state’s connectivity has improved with the Bairabi–Sairang railway project and Lengpui Airport (the only airport in Mizoram).

Culture and Society

Mizoram is known for its communal harmony, folk traditions, and colourful festivals. The society is predominantly tribal, egalitarian, and deeply influenced by Christian missionary education.
Major Festivals:

• Chapchar Kut: Celebrated in March after clearing jhum fields; the most important Mizo festival.
• Mim Kut: Harvest festival celebrated in August or September.
• Pawl Kut: Post-harvest festival of thanksgiving celebrated in December.

Traditional Mizo dances include:

• Cheraw Dance (Bamboo Dance): The most famous; women dance between moving bamboo staves.
• Chheih Lam, Khuallam, Sarlamkai, and Chai Dance: Performed during community feasts and festivals.

Traditional Dress: The Puan, a handwoven cloth with intricate patterns, is worn by both men and women.
Music and Cuisine: Mizos have a deep love for folk and gospel music. Traditional dishes include bai (vegetable stew), zu (rice beer), and preparations based on bamboo shoots and smoked meat.

Education and Health

Mizoram has one of India’s highest literacy rates and an advanced network of schools and colleges. The Mizoram University, established in 2001, serves as the state’s central university. Other notable institutions include:

• National Institute of Technology (NIT) Mizoram
• Mizoram College of Nursing
• Regional Institute of Paramedical and Nursing Sciences (RIPANS)

The state also performs well in health indices, with accessible healthcare through district hospitals and community health centres.

Flora and Fauna

Mizoram’s lush forests are part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

• Forests: Evergreen and semi-evergreen types dominate.
• Wildlife: Elephants, bears, deer, gibbons, and leopards.
• Birds: Over 500 species recorded.
• National Parks and Sanctuaries:
  • Phawngpui National Park (Blue Mountain National Park)
  • Dampa Tiger Reserve (largest wildlife sanctuary in Mizoram)
  • Murlen National Park
  • Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary

Tourism

Tourism in Mizoram is growing rapidly due to its scenic landscapes and cultural vibrancy. Key tourist destinations include:

• Aizawl: Capital city with attractions such as Solomon’s Temple, Durtlang Hills, and Mizoram State Museum.
• Lunglei: Known for its hilltop views and vibrant local culture.
• Champhai: The “Rice Bowl of Mizoram,” offering panoramic views of the Myanmar hills.
• Phawngpui (Blue Mountain): Ideal for trekking and nature enthusiasts.
• Reiek and Hmuifang: Famous hill resorts near Aizawl.
• Tam Dil and Vantawng Falls: Popular picnic and nature spots.

Notable Facts and Miscellaneous

• State Animal: Serow (Capricornis sumatraensis)
• State Bird: Hume’s Pheasant (Syrmaticus humiae)
• State Flower: Red Vanda (Vanda coerulea)
• State Tree: Ironwood (Heritiera littoralis)
• First Chief Minister: Laldenga
• Current Key Crops: Paddy, maize, ginger, orange, and bamboo
• High Literacy: Over 90%, reflecting strong emphasis on education and social development.
• UN Recognition: Mizoram’s bamboo flowering phenomenon (Mautam) has been studied globally for its ecological impact.