Migration of Mizo “Israeli descendants” likely to begin in March as Modi’s proposed Israel visit may delay February departure
By NIRENDRA DEV
Aizawl, February 17, 2026 — The Government of Israel has approved a plan to absorb nearly 6,000 members of the Bnei Menashe community residing in Mizoram and Manipur by 2030, according to sources in Aizawl.
The Bnei Menashe, who identify themselves as descendants of the biblical tribe of Manasseh — one of the “lost tribes of Israel” — have long sought migration under the Aliyah (return to Zion) programme.
Community leaders said the first batch for 2026, comprising around 300 members each from Mizoram and Manipur, was initially scheduled to leave in late February. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposed visit to Israel in February is likely to defer the migration by one to two weeks.
It is now expected that the first group will depart in early March.
Preference in selection is being given to families whose members have already migrated to Israel in earlier phases. Representatives of the Jewish Agency and community rabbis have indicated that family reunification remains a priority under the Aliyah programme. However, final lists for this year’s migration are yet to be officially confirmed.
One community member from Aizawl said he, his spouse and their son are preparing to migrate, as his daughter and another son had already moved to Israel five and ten years ago respectively.
Faith Journey and Recognition
Most Bnei Menashe families in northeast India practised Christianity before converting to Judaism. They now observe Jewish traditions, celebrate festivals such as Sukkot and maintain synagogues across Mizoram and Manipur.
In Aizawl alone, there are reportedly two synagogues, with others located in towns including Kolasib, Lunglei and Sialhok.
The community’s claims received formal recognition in 2005 when Shlomo Amar, then Sephardi Chief Rabbi of Israel, acknowledged them as descendants of the ancient Israelites, paving the way for structured migration.
The first significant group of around 200 Mizos migrated to Israel in the mid-1990s, with many settling in the West Bank.
Politics and Perception
The migration issue has also drawn political commentary in Mizoram. Some within the community view the strengthening of India-Israel ties under Modi’s government — including his landmark 2017 visit to Israel — as positive for facilitating smoother migration processes.
Others caution against linking faith-driven migration with party politics. “It is more about belief and identity than political alignments,” said a local entrepreneur, requesting anonymity.
For many Bnei Menashe families, migration represents not just relocation but spiritual homecoming. The Israel government’s 2030 absorption plan signals continuity in a process that has unfolded over decades.
As the next batch prepares for departure, the Bnei Menashe migration to Israel enters a new chapter — one rooted in faith, identity and the hope of return.
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