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On 20 February every year, India commemorates the grant of statehood to Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram, both of which became full-fledged States of the Indian Union in 1987. The Prime Minister extended greetings to the people of both States on the occasion, highlighting their cultural richness and contribution to national unity.

Constitutional Basis of Statehood

• 53rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1986 - Granted statehood to Mizoram.
• 55th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1986 - Granted statehood to Arunachal Pradesh.
• Both States formally came into existence on 20 February 1987.
• Mizoram became the 23rd State, while Arunachal Pradesh became the 24th State of India.

Mizoram

Historical Background

• Originally known as the Lushai Hills district of Assam.
• Renamed Mizo Hills in 1954.
• Became a Union Territory in 1972.
• Achieved statehood following the Mizoram Peace Accord signed in 1986 between the Government of India and the Mizo National Front (MNF).

The Accord ended years of insurgency and paved the way for political stability and democratic integration.

Constitutional Protection

• Recognized as a “Tribal Area” under the Sixth Schedule (Article 244(2)) of the Constitution.
• Provides for Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) to safeguard tribal customs, land rights, and local governance.

Arunachal Pradesh

Historical Evolution

• Earlier known as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA).
• Came under British control after the Treaty of Yandaboo (1826), following the First Anglo-Burmese War (1824–26).
• The 1914 Shimla Convention demarcated the boundary between Tibet and NEFA, resulting in the McMahon Line.
• Until 1962, it was constitutionally under Assam.
• Became a Union Territory in 1972.
• Granted full statehood in 1987 through the 55th Constitutional Amendment.

Strategic Significance

• Shares an international boundary with China (Tibet Autonomous Region).
• Holds immense strategic and geopolitical importance in India’s North-East security framework.