Unfolding the Chronicles of Arunachal Pradesh: A Glance at its 36th Statehood Day
The 20th of February marks a significant day in the history of India as we celebrate the Statehood Day of Arunachal Pradesh. Acknowledging this monumental day, the Prime Minister of India recently extended greetings and wishes to all the people of Arunachal Pradesh. Tracing back to 1986, it became the 24th state of the Indian Union through the 55th amendment to the Indian Constitution.
The Journey of Arunachal Pradesh: Historical Background
Initially termed as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) during the British Colonial Rule, it was only after 1972 that the state received its present name – Arunachal Pradesh. On the 20th of January that year, it was declared a Union Territory. Making strides towards progress, Arunachal Pradesh was granted statehood by the State of Arunachal Pradesh Act, 1986.
Geographical Perimeters and Demographical Structure
Carved out from Assam in 1987, Arunachal Pradesh shares its borders with Bhutan in the west and the Tibetan region of China up north. To the southeast, it meets Nagaland and Myanmar, and to the southwest, it is bounded by Assam. The capital city, Itanagar, sits amidst this strategically placed state. As per the 2011 Census, the state reports a literacy rate of 65.38% with male literacy at 72.55% and female literacy at 57.70%. The Sex Ratio of the state is 938 females for every 1000 males. Significantly, the state boasts of housing 26 major tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes, many of which are yet to be explored. Around 65% of the population constitutes tribals.
Economic Activities in Arunachal Pradesh
Majorly an agrarian state, Arunachal Pradesh predominantly relies on agriculture, with Jhum cultivation (slash and burn cultivation) taking center stage. Apart from this, there is also cultivation of cash crops such as potatoes. The state exhibits a rich horticulture scene with major crops including pineapple, apple, oranges, and more.
The Biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh
A treasure trove of biodiversity, Arunachal Pradesh has declared Mithun (also known as Gayal) as its State Animal and Hornbill as its State Bird. The state nurtures the Dihang Dibang Biosphere Reserve along with several other Protected Areas like the Namdapha National Park, Mouling National Park, Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, and Pakke Tiger Reserve.
A Close Look at the Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh
The most noteworthy tribal groups within the state include the Monpas, Nyishis, Apatanis, Noctes, and Sherdukpens. The Monpas, believed to be the only nomadic tribe of northeast, inhabit the West Kameng and Tawang districts, following the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. Apatanis, practicing pre-Aryan beliefs, are primarily engaged in bamboo cultivation. Noctes, found in the Tirap district, follow Theravada Buddhism and Animism. Sherdukpens, although having adopted Buddhism, mostly adhere to pre-Buddhist and Animistic practices. Being one of the most progressive tribes, they engage in agriculture, fishing, and rearing of livestock. Nyishis, the most populous tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, are primarily involved in shifting cultivation and produce crops like rice, millet, cucumber, etc.
