The “Zomi people” are an ethnic group primarily found in the northeastern regions of India and the northwestern parts of Myanmar. The term “Zomi” has a collective identity adopted by some of the Kuki-Chin language-speaking people.
Historically, the Zomi people were referred to by various names such as Chin, Kuki, or Lushai, which were terms used during the British colonial period. However, many groups have since rejected these labels as colonial impositions and have embraced the Zomi identity.
The Zomi people are spread across the states of Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland in India, as well as in the Chin State of Myanmar. They speak various dialects of the Kuki-Chin languages and predominantly follow Christianity, with some minorities practicing Animism, Judaism, and Buddhism.
The Zomi identity has evolved over time, with significant movements towards unification and recognition of their distinct cultural and ethnic heritage.