Saitual

There are two theories on the origin and etymology of the name Saitual. One theory holds that Saitual is derived from two words, i.e., Sai (elephant) and tual (ground). This theory maintains that back in the days, the whole stretch of the inhabited area and its surrounding areas used to be a resting ground of elephants moving between Ṭawi mountain and Chalfilh mountain in search of food, hence the name Saitual. The other theory holds that the name came after one clan of Hmar tribe, i.e., Saitual, who were the early settlers of the place. The theory justifies by stating that the mountain near Saitual called Sahmar Tlang was also named after one clan of Hmar tribe, viz. Saihmar since, traditionally, clans of Hmar tribe used to name places following the clan's name.

The present settlement was founded by one chief of Sailo clan Dorawta, who after conversion wanted to establish a Christian village in the year 1915. At first, about 16 families joined him but later more people joined him in 1916. As the population increased gradually, schools and other government establishments were created. There is, however, disagreement about who founded the village. According to the dissenters, about 12 families had already settled in Saitual in 1912. Since the fledgling village was situated in the land of the ruling Sailo clan, Dorawta Sailo was requested to become the chief of the village which he materialized in 1915. As Saitual celebrated its centennial year in 2015, it may be taken as a fact that Chief Dorawta Sailo actually administered this village from 1915. It appears that a village founded by about 12 to 16 families prior to 1915 became a Sailo village since 1915.[1]

As of 2001 India census,[2] Saitual had a population of 10,243. Males constitute 50% of the population and females 50%. Saitual has an average literacy rate of 83%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. The male literacy rate is 84%, and the female literacy rate is 82%. In Saitual, 14% of the population is under 6 years of age.

National Highway-06 traverses Saitual town. The road distance between Saitual and Aizawl is roughly 77 km and is connected with regular public transport including bus service and maxicab service. The helipad situated at Saihmar Tlang near Saitual provides air transport in which helicopter service is available.[3]

Saitual College Campus View

There is one college Saitual College, under Mizoram University and a number of public and private schools.

The Major Newspapers in Saitual is the Saitual Post.[4]