MNF evolved from the Mizo National Famine Front, which Pu Laldenga established in 1959 to oppose the Indian central government’s apathy about the famine situation in the Mizo districts of Assam state. It carried out a significant rebellion in 1966, which was followed by years of illicit activity. With the Government of India, it signed the Mizoram Accord in 1986, pledging to forgo independence and armed conflict. After then, the MNF started running for office and has since led Mizoram’s state government three times. It is now in power in the state, with its president serving as Mizoram’s Chief Minister.

The Mautam, a cyclical occurrence wherein bamboo plant blossoming results in a swarm of crop-eating rats, which in turn causes a famine, wreaked havoc on the Mizo Hills in 1959. The Mizo Cultural Society was established earlier in 1955 with Laldenga serving as its secretary. The Mautam Front took the place of the Mizo Cultural Society in March 1960. This society led the way in seeking aid during the famine of 1959–1960, garnering support from all demographic groups. The Mizo National Famine Front was the name given to the Society in September 1960. (MNFF). As many Mizo Youth joined in delivering food and other necessities to remote areas, the MNFF saw a significant increase in support.