108-Year-Old Lalneihsangi Declared Mizoram’s Oldest Living Person

Aizawl, Mizoram; September 14, 2025

In a heartwarming announcement, Lalneihsangi, a 108-year-old woman from Mizoram, has been officially declared the state’s oldest living person. Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii made the declaration on September 13, 2025, highlighting the remarkable life and contributions of the centenarian to Mizoram’s society and history. Affectionately known as Pi Buangi among locals, Lalneihsangi celebrated her 108th birthday on April 14 of this year. She has been a pioneer in social service and rehabilitation work in Mizoram, being one of the first women among the Mizos to serve in a rehabilitation centre. Her notable work at the Behala Girls Home in Kolkata marked her early contributions to improving the lives of vulnerable young girls, setting a precedent for social work among Mizo women.

Born to Thangchhunga, who was the first Corps Sergeant Major in Mizoram’s Salvation Army Church, Lalneihsangi inherited a legacy of discipline, community service, and leadership. Over the decades, she has become an iconic figure, inspiring generations of Mizos through her dedication to social welfare. In recognition of her lifelong contributions, she was awarded the ‘Women of Substance’ award in 2022, celebrating her unwavering commitment to serving society and uplifting marginalized communities. The declaration was made following a detailed survey conducted by Mizoram’s Social Welfare Department to identify the state’s oldest living citizen.

During a function held in Aizawl, Minister Lalrinpuii praised Lalneihsangi’s extraordinary life, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting elders in society. The minister also reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing welfare measures for senior citizens, including old-age pensions, healthcare services, and community support programs. According to the Social Welfare Department, Mizoram currently has over 70,000 elderly people, and this number is expected to increase to 100,000 by 2036. Minister Lalrinpuii urged the public to cherish elders, emphasizing it as one of the key Mizo codes of ethics. She highlighted that respecting and caring for senior citizens is not just a moral obligation but a reflection of the state’s cultural values and traditions.

Lalneihsangi’s life story also serves as a reminder of the changing roles of women in Mizoram over the last century. From working in early social welfare institutions to receiving statewide recognition, her journey exemplifies the progress of women in public life and their contributions to societal development. Her dedication, resilience, and service-oriented mindset have left an indelible mark on the community, making her an inspiration to people of all ages. The recognition of Lalneihsangi as Mizoram’s oldest living person comes at a time when the state is increasingly focusing on elderly welfare and health infrastructure.

Officials hope that her story will inspire more initiatives to honor senior citizens and integrate them into community development programs. As Lalneihsangi continues to enjoy her centenarian years surrounded by family, friends, and admirers, the state celebrates not only her longevity but also her lifetime of service, resilience, and dedication to Mizoram’s society. Her journey reminds all citizens of the importance of valuing experience, wisdom, and the contributions of elders in shaping a compassionate and inclusive society.