Northeast India

Northeast India

Tawang Gate, a prominent landmark in Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India

Northeast India is a region of India comprising eight states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. This region is known for its unique cultural diversity, rich biodiversity, and strategic geopolitical location. It is connected to the rest of India by a narrow corridor called the Siliguri Corridor or "Chicken's Neck."

Geography

Northeast India is characterized by its varied topography, which includes the Eastern Himalayas, the Brahmaputra Valley, and the Barak Valley. The region is bordered by Bhutan, China, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.

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Majuli Island, the world's largest river island, located in Assam

The Brahmaputra River is a major river that flows through the region, providing fertile plains and supporting agriculture. The region is also home to the Meghalaya Plateau, known for its high rainfall and unique living root bridges.

Culture

Northeast India is home to a multitude of ethnic groups and languages. The region is known for its vibrant festivals, traditional music, and dance forms. Each state has its own distinct cultural identity, with influences from neighboring countries and indigenous traditions.

Living root bridges in Nongriat village, Meghalaya

The region celebrates various festivals such as Bihu in Assam, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, and Durga Puja in Tripura. Traditional crafts, textiles, and cuisine also play a significant role in the cultural landscape of Northeast India.

Biodiversity

Northeast India is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. It is part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot and is home to numerous endemic species of flora and fauna. The region's forests are rich in bamboo, rhododendrons, and orchids.

Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, located in Manipur

Protected areas such as Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, and Namdapha National Park are crucial for the conservation of species like the Indian rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, and Hoolock gibbon.

Economy

The economy of Northeast India is primarily agrarian, with agriculture being the mainstay for the majority of the population. The region is known for its tea plantations, particularly in Assam, which is one of the largest tea-producing areas in the world.

Mokokchung, a town in Nagaland known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage

In recent years, there has been a focus on developing infrastructure and promoting tourism to boost the economy. The region's natural beauty and cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for tourists.

History

Northeast India has a rich historical background, with influences from various dynasties and colonial powers. The region was part of the ancient Kamarupa Kingdom and later came under the control of the Ahom Kingdom.

Map of British Bengal and British Burma, 1907, showing Northeast India

During the British colonial period, the region was part of the British Raj and was known as the "North-East Frontier Agency." Post-independence, the region has seen various movements for autonomy and statehood, leading to the formation of the current states.

Related pages

• Assam
• Meghalaya
• Nagaland
• Sikkim
• Tripura

External links

• Official Northeast India Tourism