States » EastPosted at: Nov 15 2026 7:12PM


Aizawl: PM Modi inaugurates Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum

Aizawl, Nov 15 (UNI) The Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum at Kelsih was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, marking a tribute to the Mizo chieftainess who resisted British colonial rule. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Zawlnuam and laid the foundation stone for another EMRS at Pangzawl South.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma unveiled the statue of Ropuiliani at the museum complex during the programme held to mark Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day).

Addressing the national programme through video conferencing from Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, Modi paid tribute to tribal freedom fighters and highlighted the contributions of tribal communities to India's history, culture and development. He said Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, observed annually on November 15 since 2021, was an occasion to recognise their sacrifices and preserve their rich heritage.

Referring to the country's development over the past 12-13 years, the Prime Minister cited a World Bank report which, he said, showed that nearly 50 crore people had been lifted out of extreme poverty. He also claimed that India had achieved freedom from Naxalism and Maoist terror, adding that these developments had a direct bearing on the lives of tribal communities.

Modi said the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters continued to inspire generations and expressed pride that the country's highest constitutional office was held by a woman from a tribal community, President Droupadi Murmu. He called upon citizens to work towards building a developed and self-reliant India.

Speaking at the Kelsih programme, Lalduhoma said Mizoram had produced many brave chiefs and unsung heroes who resisted British domination. He described Ropuiliani's sacrifice in defence of her land and community as a source of pride for the Mizo people.

The Chief Minister said the Mizos had historically stood firm in defending their land and identity, and called for unity and courage in facing challenges. He also urged the younger generation to preserve and carry forward their cultural heritage, traditions, history and values.

Emphasising the importance of cultural preservation, Lalduhoma said every community had its own distinct identity and traditions that must not be allowed to disappear with changing times. He cautioned that losing one's culture and traditions would be unfortunate and expressed hope that the museum would become a centre for showcasing Mizo history, culture and the people's resistance against colonial rule.

Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena said the inauguration was not merely the opening of a museum but also a tribute to Ropuiliani and other Mizo freedom fighters whose contributions had not received adequate recognition. He expressed hope that the institution would keep their memories alive and provide future generations with an opportunity to learn about Mizo history and cultural heritage.

November 15 marks the 151st birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, the tribal leader popularly known as Dharti Aaba, who led the Ulgulan movement against British rule. The day is observed across India as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.

The national programme this year also saw the inauguration and foundation-laying of 246 projects aimed at tribal welfare and empowerment, involving an investment of around Rs 3,000 crore. Mizoram's three projects included the Kelsih museum and EMRS Zawlnuam, both inaugurated virtually, and the proposed EMRS at Pangzawl South.

The Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum complex comprises a museum building, open-air theatre, traditional hut, heritage walk, Birsa Munda Tribal Pride Garden, cafeteria and staff quarters, among other facilities. During his visit, the Chief Minister inspected the various facilities.

The museum has been established to commemorate the courage and sacrifices of Mizo tribal freedom fighters while documenting the cultural traditions and historical legacy of the Mizo people.
It is named after Ropuiliani, a 19th-century Mizo chieftainess who resisted British colonial expansion and remains a symbol of resistance and sacrifice.
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