Guwahati: The Mizoram government reached a peace settlement with the Lalhmingthanga Sanate-led faction of the Hmar People's Convention (Democratic) on Tuesday, April 14, officially bringing an end to a prolonged armed insurgency in the state that had continued for decades.
Mizoram Home Secretary David Lalithantluanga and HPC(D) president Lalhmingthanga Sanate signed the Memorandum of Settlement at a formal programme held in Sakawrda, which serves as the administrative centre of the Sinlung Hills Council.
Senior official Lalmuanpuia Punte, government representatives, and members of the Hmar community were present at the programme.
The agreement sets out a wide-ranging development plan for the Hmar-majority region under the Sinlung Hills Council in northern and northeastern Mizoram. It proposes increased financial support from the government, a dedicated special development initiative, improvement of public infrastructure, and stronger transport and communication facilities.
As per the settlement terms, 43 armed cadres belonging to the Sanate faction will surrender their weapons and transition into civilian life. Their return to normal life will be formally marked by a "homecoming" ceremony scheduled for April 30 at the Central Training Institute in Sesawng, near Aizawl.
The accord also includes formal recognition of Sikpui Ruoi, the most significant cultural festival of the Hmar community, which is celebrated annually on December 5.
Praising the agreement, Punte described it as a key step forward in ending long-standing ethnic militancy in the state. He further observed that developmental gaps have often been linked to unrest and expressed confidence that a development-driven approach would help secure lasting peace.
Home Secretary Lalithantluanga recalled that Mizoram had earlier reached similar understandings with Hmar groups in 1994 and 2018, and stated that the latest agreement in 2026 completes the broader peace settlement process.
Sanate noted that the movement had involved more than three decades of struggle and sacrifice, adding that while all original demands may not have been fully achieved, the agreement still represents meaningful progress and improved reconciliation.
Earlier, the HPC(D) had sought reforms in the administration of the Sinlung Hills Council area, including transfer of authority to the District Council and Minority Affairs Department, along with increased funding support, better infrastructure, and establishment of educational institutions.
The group had also demanded recognition of Hmar Martyrs' Day and Sikpui Ruoi as official local holidays.
The Sanate-led faction was the final remaining breakaway group among three Hmar insurgent outfits active since 1996. With this settlement, the armed movement in Mizoram is widely regarded as having reached its conclusion.