| Native Name: | Lushai: Mizoram[1] |
| Conventional Long Name: | Union Territory of Mizoram |
| Common Name: | Mizoram |
| Nation: | India |
| Era: | Cold War |
| Event Start: | Union Territory established |
| Year Start: | 1972 |
| Date Start: | 19 January |
| Event End: | Statehood |
| Year End: | 1987 |
| Date End: | 20 February |
| Life Span: | 1972–1987 |
| Event1: | Mizoram Peace Accord |
| Date Event1: | 30 June 1986 |
| Status Text: | Union Territory of India |
| Capital: | Aizawl |
| Leader1: | C. Chhunga |
| Title Leader: | Chief Minister |
| Year Leader1: | 1972–1977 |
| Leader2: | T. Sailo |
| Year Leader2: | 1978 |
| Leader3: | T. Sailo |
| Year Leader3: | 1979–1984 |
| Leader4: | Lal Thanhawla |
| Year Leader4: | 1984–1986 |
| P1: | Mizo District |
| S1: | MizoramState of Mizoram |
| Stat Year1: | 1981 |
| Stat Pop1: | 493,757[2] |
| Today: | Mizoram |
The Union Territory of Mizoram, spanning from 1972 to 1987, was formed as a response to the Mizo people's demand for greater autonomy.[3] During this time period, reforms in administration and preservation of Mizo culture started.
The Mizo National Front (MNF), formed in 1961, sought to address the perceived neglect and exploitation of the Mizo people by the central government. The insurgency led to unrest, conflicts, and demands for political autonomy. The formation of the Union Territory was part of a broader effort to recognize and respect the unique cultural and historical identity of the Mizo people.
Chapchar Kut, a traditional Mizo festival (also named by some as Mizo New Year[4]), was officially revived in the mid-1970s during Mizoram's Union Territory phase.[5] The festival had been discontinued during the period of Christian missionary influence and British colonial rule.
There were three districts in Mizoram: Aizawl, Chhimtuipui (present-day Siaha and Lawngtlai districts), and Lunglei.
One of the most significant administrative achievements during this period was the signing of the Mizoram Peace Accord in 1986. This accord brought an end to years of insurgency, contributing to political stability and laying the foundation for further development and governance reforms.