Aizawl, April 14 (NationPress) In a pivotal move towards enduring peace, the government of Mizoram officially finalized a Memorandum of Settlement with the faction led by Lalhmingthanga Sanate from the Hmar People’s Convention-Democratic (HPC-D (LF)), thereby marking the conclusion of prolonged insurgency issues within the state.

A high-ranking official from the Home Department revealed that this agreement delineates a thorough development strategy specifically aimed at the Hmar-populated Sinlung Hills Council region located in northern and northeastern Mizoram.

This strategy encompasses increased financial allocations, a dedicated development package, upgrades to infrastructure, and enhanced connectivity.

The accord was executed by Home Department Secretary David Lalthantluanga representing the Mizoram government, while Lalhmingthanga Sanate, the President of HPC-D (LF), signed on behalf of the faction.

The signing event was graced by notable attendees, including MLA and Chief Minister’s Political Adviser Lalmuanpuia Punte and Deputy Inspector General of Police (Northern Range) Rodingliana Chawngthu, among others.

During the event, Lalmuanpuia Punte emphasized that dissatisfaction with developmental progress often leads to unrest.

He expressed hope that this agreement would pave the way for significant advancements and noted that the public signing in Sakawrdai is a departure from prior agreements that lacked public engagement. He also welcomed the resolution of factional splits within the Hmar community in Mizoram.

Describing the accord as a landmark achievement in Mizoram's pursuit of peace and stability, Home Secretary David Lalthantluanga reflected on the history of HPC, which was established in 1986, and the previous peace agreement signed in 1994.

Moreover, in 2018, a pact was executed with HPC (D), a splinter group of HPC, with the latest agreement finalized with HPC-D (LF) on Tuesday.

The senior IAS official expressed satisfaction that there are currently no armed insurgent factions remaining in Mizoram. He highlighted that this latest agreement ensures the absence of any active armed groups in the state.

Additionally, the Home Secretary announced the establishment of a peace camp near Mauchar village for HPC-D (LF) members, with a formal “laying down of arms” ceremony scheduled for April 30, 2026.

He praised Lalhmingthanga Sanate and his faction for opting for a path of peace over violence.

In his statements, Sanate acknowledged that the group's 33-year struggle involved considerable sacrifices. He expressed gratitude to state leadership and confidence that the government will prioritize development in Hmar areas. He also promised full cooperation in executing the agreement.

The Mizoram government initiated discussions with HPC-D (LF) in mid-2024, identifying it as the only remaining active underground armed faction. Several rounds of negotiations took place between September 2024 and March 2026, culminating in the signing of the final agreement on Tuesday.

The ceremony was led by Joint Secretary (Home) P.C. Lalduhthlanga, with Rev. Langhmingthang Joute providing the invocation. Senior officials, community leaders, and representatives from various organizations, including the Sinlung Hills Council and Hmar groups, were present.

According to the agreement, 43 members of HPC-D (LF) will surrender their weapons during a formal ceremony on April 30 at the Central Training Institute in Sesawng.

This historic accord brings Mizoram closer to achieving sustained peace and inclusive development, aligning with its long-term vision of “Transform Mizoram 2047.”