Bnei Menashe: The ‘Lost Tribe’ Community

Around 300 members of the Bnei Menashe community from Mizoram and Manipur are set to migrate to Israel by early 2026 under Israel’s Aliyah (Return to Zion) programme.

Who Are the Bnei Menashe?

The Bnei Menashe identify themselves as descendants of the Biblical Tribe of Manasseh, considered one of Israel’s “lost tribes.”
Historically from Mizo and Kuki ethnic groups, they practised Christianity for generations before adopting Judaism.
They follow Jewish dietary laws, synagogue rituals and major festivals.

Key Developments

• Israel has approved the absorption of nearly 6,000 Bnei Menashe by 2030.
• Communities from the Northeast have been migrating since the early 2000s; over 5,000 have already resettled.
• About 300 from Mizoram and 300 from Manipur are preparing to leave in early 2026.
• New arrivals are expected to settle in Galilee, a region impacted by conflict with Hezbollah.

Support Provided by Israel

• Under Aliyah, migrants receive:
• Financial assistance
• Temporary housing
• Hebrew language training
• Employment guidance
• Social reintegration programmes

This step has also been described by Israeli leadership as important for population strengthening in strategic regions like Galilee and Negev.

Cultural and Emotional Significance

• The community’s identity is rooted in oral traditions linking them to ancient Israel.
• Migration reflects—not just displacement—but a spiritual homecoming cherished across generations.
• Families reunite with children who migrated earlier, making it a deeply emotional transition.

Exam Hook – Sample Prelims Question

Q. With reference to the Bnei Menashe community, consider the following statements:
1. They identify themselves as descendants of one of the Biblical “lost tribes.”
2. They are native to Mizoram and Manipur.
3. They migrate to Israel under the Aliyah Programme.
4. They are recognised as a Scheduled Tribe under the Constitution of India.

Which of the statements are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (a)