Aizawl, June 30: Mizoram commemorated the Ruby Jubilee of Remna Ni, marking the 40th anniversary of the historic Mizoram Peace Accord, with Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.), describing the Accord as one of India's greatest success stories in conflict resolution and urging citizens to preserve the peace that has transformed the state over the past four decades.
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| Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh addresses the Ruby Jubilee celebration of Remna Ni in Aizawl, urging citizens to preserve the enduring legacy of the historic Mizoram Peace Accord and strengthen peace for future generations. (DIPR Mizoram) |
The commemorative programme, themed "From the Frontlines of '66 to 40 Years of Peace," was jointly organised by the Zoram Research Foundation and Aijal Club at the BSI Hall, Khatla, Aizawl. During the event, the Governor formally launched a research initiative titled "The Case Study of the Enduring Legacy of the Mizo Peace Accord," aimed at documenting and analysing the long-term impact of the landmark agreement.
Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, the Governor paid rich tribute to the architects of the Peace Accord and the people of Mizoram for safeguarding peace since the agreement was signed in 1986. He described the Accord as a historic achievement that successfully ended nearly two decades of insurgency and laid the foundation for lasting peace, stability and development.
"Even after 40 years, Mizoram has remained completely free from disturbances. This is a remarkable accomplishment. There is progress without hesitation because the peace process belongs to everyone, and this achievement belongs to the people of Mizoram," he said.
The Governor observed that the Mizoram Peace Accord stands as a shining example of reconciliation, statesmanship and democratic commitment. He noted that its success has frequently been cited as a model of conflict resolution and peace-building, not only in India's Northeast but also internationally.
While celebrating the state's achievements, he cautioned against taking peace for granted. Instead, he urged citizens to continuously nurture and strengthen the values that made the Peace Accord successful.
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Reflecting on Mizoram's history, the Governor recalled the devastating famine that triggered widespread unrest in the region during the 1960s. He emphasised that governments must respond promptly to people's grievances and hardships before they escalate into larger crises.
"The authorities have a responsibility to identify public grievances in time and address them through timely corrective measures," he said, adding that effective governance and public trust remain essential for maintaining peace and stability.
He further noted that after underground groups embraced the democratic process following the Peace Accord, Mizoram gradually emerged as one of India's most peaceful states. The restoration of peace has enabled democratic institutions to flourish while creating favourable conditions for sustained development across sectors.
Commending the organisers, the Governor praised the Zoram Research Foundation and Aijal Club for commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Accord in a meaningful manner. He expressed confidence that the newly launched research project would serve as an important resource for policymakers, researchers and future generations seeking to understand the principles of peace-building, reconciliation and nation-building.
He also encouraged Mizoram's youth and civil society to embrace broader perspectives while preserving their cultural identity.
"Communities do not develop by remaining insular. We need to step out of our comfort zones, learn from others, forge alliances and adopt better ideas for the development of our land and people. Mizoram has tremendous talent, and in the spirit of the Peace Accord, we must harness that talent," the Governor said.
Calling upon all sections of society to uphold the ideals of the Peace Accord, he stressed that collective efforts are essential to preserving the state's hard-earned peace and ensuring continued progress.
As part of the Ruby Jubilee celebrations, attendees witnessed the premiere screening of the "Mizo Peace Accord Documentary Series" produced by StratNewsGlobal, which chronicles the events leading to the signing of the Accord and its enduring impact on Mizoram.
The programme also featured a special conversation with veteran journalist, conflict reporter and strategic affairs analyst Nitin A. Gokhale, who shared insights into the significance of the Peace Accord in India's security and political history. Renowned author and filmmaker Sanjoy Hazarika also delivered remarks highlighting the broader lessons that the Mizoram Peace Accord offers in conflict resolution and reconciliation.
Another highlight of the event was a session titled "Frontlines of the Past: Conversation with Veteran Press Corp," where senior media professionals reflected on their experiences reporting during Mizoram's years of conflict and the transition to peace.
The distinguished panel included C. Lalrosanga, IIS (Retd.), former Lok Sabha MP and former Director General of Doordarshan; L.R. Sailo, former Director of the Information & Public Relations Department; Lalramliani Hnamte, former announcer and newsreader with All India Radio; and D.R. Zirliana, former Editor of Mizo Aw daily newspaper.
The Ruby Jubilee celebration served as both a tribute to the architects of the historic Peace Accord and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding peace, democracy and inclusive development. Forty years after the signing of the landmark agreement, Mizoram continues to be recognised as one of India's most peaceful states, with the Peace Accord remaining a globally acknowledged example of successful conflict resolution through dialogue and democratic consensus.
