Authorities in Mizoram have completed biometric enrolment for over 97% of the approximately 28,355 Myanmar refugees who sought shelter in the state after the 2021 military coup. The Ministry of Home Affairs advised this process for both Myanmar and Bangladeshi refugees starting July 2025, utilizing specific systems. In total, 27,574 out of the 28,355 Myanmar nationals have had their biometric details recorded, with coverage at 97.24%.
The biometric exercise has been finished in Aizawl, Lunglei, Serchhip, and Champhai districts. Champhai district hosts the highest number of refugees at 12,083, while Lawngtlai district shelters the second-highest at 5,034. However, the enrolment process has faced challenges in six districts, including slow progress due to issues like poor internet connectivity.
In Lawngtlai district, which accommodates 2,042 Bangladeshi refugees, only 183 individuals have completed biometric enrolment, representing 8.96% of the total. The Mizoram government’s objective with this exercise is to ensure proper documentation and enhance administrative coordination while providing humanitarian aid to the refugees.
Both Myanmar and Bangladeshi refugees are residing in designated relief camps, rented houses, and with relatives across all 11 districts of Mizoram. The collection of biometric details from camp residents is relatively straightforward, but it poses challenges for those staying in remote villages with relatives or rented accommodations. District authorities are seeking support from village councils and civil society groups like the Young Mizo Association to address this issue effectively.
