Pyin Khone Gyi is a village located in Kalay Township, Kale District, Sagaing Region, Myanmar. It sits in the fertile Kale-Kabaw Valley, close to the Chin Hills and the India border. The village is known for its strong farming economy, Christian traditions, Chin cultural heritage, and its commitment to education.
📜 History
Pyin Khone Gyi was established in AD 1947, just before Myanmar became an independent country. The first villagers were came from the Chin Hills and Khampat area. They moved to the Kale-Kabaw Valley to find a better land and peaceful life.
At that time, the area was covered with wild forests and open meadows. It was quiet and untouched. The early settlers cleared the land, built homes, and started farming. They also built churches and schools, which helped the village grow.
📜A Post-Colonial Settlement
The year 1947 is a pivotal moment in the history of Myanmar, positioning the village's founding as a direct product of the post-colonial era. This year saw the negotiation of the Panglong Agreement, a landmark accord between General Aung San and ethnic leaders, including those from the Chin community, which promised autonomy for certain regions in the lead-up to Burma's independence in January 1948.
🗺️ Geography
Pyin Khone Gyi is about 5 miles (8 km) from Kalaymyo, the nearest town. It is also around 5 miles from Letpanchaung village. Two rivers, the Segyi River and the Neyinzaya River, flow through the area and help with irrigation. The village is near the Patkai Range, which adds to its natural beauty. A main road called the Kalaymyo–Yazagyo Dam–Tamu Road connects the village to nearby towns and trade centers.
The village's physical location belongs a particular geopolitical significance. It is situated in the western part of the Sagaing Region, in close proximity to the border of Chin State and the international border with India. This positioning places it at a critical crossroads, functioning as a bridge between the lowland, predominantly Bamar-populated areas of Sagaing and the highland, Chin-dominated territories to the west.
🌾 Economy
Most people in Pyin Khone Gyi work in agriculture. They grow crops like rice, corn, and beans. Some families also raise animals such as chickens, pigs, and cows. Villagers sell their products at Tahan and Letpanchaung Bazaar, which are popular markets in Kalay Township. They also trade in Kalaymyo, helping them earn money and stay connected with other communities.
👥 Population and Literacy
According to official records:
- Pyin Khone Gyi Village Tract has 1,218 households and a total population of 5,832 people.
- Males: 2,722
- Females: 3,110
This means the average household has about 4.8 people. The village has a good literacy rate because many children attend school and churches support learning. Most students finish high school and some go on to study at Kalay University or even abroad. Adults also take part in informal learning through church groups and community programs. However, access to modern books and digital tools is still limited.
🎓 Education
Pyin Khone Gyi has one high school that follows the Myanmar national curriculum. Students study hard to pass the matriculation exam, which allows them to enter university. Since there is no university or college in the village, students travel to Kalaymyo or other places for higher education.
🕊️ Culture and Religion
The village is mostly made up of Chin ethnic groups, and Christianity is the main religion. People speak Falam and Ngawn, which are Chin dialects. Churches are important places for worship and social gatherings. Villagers celebrate:
- Christmas and Easter with music, food, and prayer
- Khuado Puai, a Chin harvest festival
- Chin National Day, which honors Chin history and identity
🛣️ Infrastructure
Local roads connect Pyin Khone Gyi to nearby villages and towns. The Kalaymyo–Yazagyo Dam–Tamu Road is the main route used for travel and trade. Most people use motorcycles or shared vehicles to get around.
📚 Public Places and Recreation
The village has two libraries:
- A government-owned library
- A school library
These libraries mostly have old books and lack modern reading materials. For fun and relaxation, villagers visit:
- Khaikam Elephant Camp
- Shu-Khinn-Thar
- TaungPhila Golf Club
- Yazagyo, a popular place for holidays
🌱 Challenges and Opportunities
Pyin Khone Gyi faces some challenges, such as:
- Limited access to higher education and modern books
- Farming difficulties during bad weather
But the village also has many strengths:
- A strong sense of community
- Good road connections
- A rich culture and history
With more support and development, Pyin Khone Gyi can continue to grow and improve.
