Aizawl, November, 2026: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today virtually inaugurated the Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum at Kelsih, an initiative under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. On the same occasion, he also inaugurated the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Zawlnuam and laid the foundation stone for EMRS Pangzawl South. Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma unveiled the statue of Ropuiliani.
In his address, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi greeted the people of India on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and paid tributes to tribal freedom fighters. He described the day as one dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage, culture and contributions of tribal communities. Highlighting the Central Government’s strong commitment to inclusive development, he outlined various measures being taken for the welfare and progress of tribal communities. Citing a World Bank report, he noted that nearly 50 crore citizens have been lifted out of extreme poverty over the past 12-13 years and that India has achieved freedom from Naxalism and Maoist terror. He said these achievements are deeply connected with the daily lives of tribal people and have been made possible through the hard work of citizens, their strong support to the Government and community participation.
The Prime Minister recalled the supreme sacrifices made by tribal communities in the service of the nation and said that tribal heroes continue to inspire people even today. He noted that Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, observed since 15 November 2021, is now celebrated as a National Festival. Praising the significant contribution of tribal communities to India’s progress, he expressed pride that the highest constitutional office in the country is held by a daughter of the tribal community, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu. He called upon every citizen to work with full dedication towards building a developed and self-reliant ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma recalled that the Mizos had many brave chiefs and unsung heroes who resisted British attempts at domination. He described the sacrifice of Lalnu Ropuiliani, who gave her life for the nation and the community, as a matter of great pride. He reminded the gathering that the Mizos have always been fearless and unyielding in the defence of their land and identity and urged everyone to face challenges with unity and courage for the greater good of the nation and the community. He also appealed to the younger generation to cherish and carry forward the precious heritage, culture, traditions, history and values of the community.
The Chief Minister observed that every community has its own unique culture that runs deep in its blood. He stressed the need for collective efforts to protect this rich cultural heritage and traditions so that they are not lost to the passage of time and changing circumstances. He said it would be unfortunate if people drifted so far as to lose their own culture and traditions. He expressed confidence that the Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum would serve as a centre showcasing Mizo culture, traditions and history, and reflecting the bravery of the Mizo people.
Chief Secretary Shri Khilli Ram Meena said the occasion was not merely the inauguration of the museum but also a tribute to Ropuiliani and other Mizo freedom fighters and unsung heroes. He expressed hope that the museum would help keep the memory of Mizo freedom fighters alive and serve as an important centre of learning about Mizo history and cultural heritage for future generations.
15 November marks the 151st birth anniversary of Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the iconic tribal leader who led the Ulgulan Movement against British rule and whose sacrifices helped India achieve freedom. The day is observed across the country as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas - Tribal Pride Day. The Prime Minister participated in the national programme from Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, via video conferencing and Mizoram also joined the celebrations.
On this occasion, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 246 different projects aimed at the empowerment of tribals, worth around ₹3,000 crore. Among these, the Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum and EMRS Zawlnuam were inaugurated and the foundation stone of EMRS Pangzawl South was laid.
The newly inaugurated Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum complex includes a museum, open-air theatre, traditional hut, heritage walk, Birsa Munda Tribal Pride Garden, cafeteria, staff quarters and other facilities. The Chief Minister inspected the various facilities during his visit.
The museum commemorates the courage, valour and sacrifices of Mizo tribal freedom fighters while showcasing the rich cultural traditions, historical legacy and heritage of the Mizo people. It is named after Ropuiliani, a nineteenth-century Mizo chieftainess who courageously resisted British colonial rule and is remembered as a symbol of tribal resistance and sacrifice.
The inauguration function was attended by Shri Lalchhuanthanga, MLA; Shri T. Roumuan Paite, IRS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs; Shri Sudhir Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, GAD; Shri Rajeev Kumar Tiwari, IFS, PCCF, EF&CC Department; Smt. Zodingpuii, IAS, Secretary, Art & Culture Department; Shri Rin Sanga, IAS (Retd.), State Convenor, INTACH Mizoram State Chapter, other senior officials, descendants of Ropuiliani and invited guests.
