PM Modi's Israel Visit Postpones Bnei Menashe Migration from Northeast India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit to Israel in February is anticipated to delay the migration of members of the Bnei Menashe community from Mizoram and Manipur by approximately one to two weeks, according to a community leader in Aizawl. This development was confirmed on Monday, highlighting the logistical adjustments necessitated by the high-profile diplomatic trip.
Revised Migration Schedule and Family Preferences
Bnei Menashe leader Jeremiah L Hnamte informed sources that the initial batch, planned to include 300 people each from Mizoram and Manipur, was originally scheduled to depart Aizawl for Israel in February. However, the Prime Minister's proposed itinerary has led to a deferment, with the first group for this year now expected to migrate to the 'Holy Land' by early March. Hnamte expressed his personal hope to be included in this group along with his spouse and son, noting that his daughter and son migrated to Israel 10 years and five years ago, respectively.
He further explained that rabbis and Jewish Agency members have indicated a preference for applicants with family already in Israel, particularly those who migrated under the Aliyah programme. This criterion aims to facilitate smoother integration and support networks for new migrants. The final list of migrants has not yet been cleared by the nine rabbis who conducted selections in Aizawl in early December, adding an element of anticipation to the process.
Background on Bnei Menashe and Israeli Absorption Plan
Israel has approved a comprehensive plan to absorb nearly 6,000 members of the Bnei Menashe community living in Mizoram and Manipur by 2030, as per a recent government decision. The Bnei Menashe are identified as descendants of the biblical tribe of Manasseh and are considered one of the 'lost tribes of Israel'. Historically, many members previously practised Christianity before converting to Judaism and receiving formal recognition from Israel's Chief Rabbinate.
Today, they observe Jewish practices, celebrate festivals such as Sukkot, and have established synagogues within their communities in Northeast India. This migration initiative is part of a broader effort to reunite this community with their ancestral homeland, supported by religious and governmental frameworks in Israel.
The delay due to Prime Minister Modi's visit underscores the intersection of international diplomacy and community migration efforts, with local leaders like Hnamte navigating these changes while maintaining hope for a timely resettlement. The ongoing selections and approvals by rabbis continue to shape the final composition of the migrating batches, emphasizing the careful planning involved in this significant cultural and religious transition.
