Aizawl: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday virtually inaugurated the Ropuiliani Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum at Kelsih, around 15 km south of Aizawl, and the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Zawlnuam near the Assam border.The projects were among 246 tribal-focused initiatives worth around Rs 3,000 crore inaugurated or launched virtually by Prime Minister as part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrations. Modi also laid the foundation stone for EMRS Pangzawl South in Mizoram.The national programme was held from Gadchiroli in Maharashtra to mark the 151st birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda, who led the Ulgulan movement against British rule. The day is observed across the country as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas – Tribal Pride Day.Speaking at the museum’s inauguration ceremony, Mizoram chief minister Lalduhoma paid tribute to Ropuiliani, the 19th-century Mizo chieftainess after whom the museum is named, and other Mizo leaders and freedom fighters who resisted British rule. He urged people, particularly the younger generation, to preserve and carry forward the community’s culture, history, traditions and values.Lalduhoma said the museum would showcase Mizo history, culture and heritage while highlighting the bravery and sacrifices of the Mizo people.State chief secretary Khilli Ram Meena said the museum was a tribute to Ropuiliani and other Mizo fighters and unsung heroes. He said it would serve as a centre for learning about Mizo history and cultural heritage.The museum complex includes exhibition galleries, an open-air theatre, a traditional hut, a heritage walk, a Birsa Munda Tribal Pride Garden, a cafeteria and staff quarters. The chief minister inspected the various facilities during his visit.The museum commemorates the courage and sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters and highlights the cultural heritage of the Mizo community.
