What is Nagaland and where is it located within India?

Nagaland is a state situated in the northeastern region of India. It shares its borders with Arunachal Pradesh to the north, Assam to the west, Manipur to the south, and Myanmar (Burma) to the east.

What are the capital and largest city of Nagaland?

The capital city of Nagaland is Kohima, while its largest urban center is the twin city complex of Chümoukedima–Dimapur.

What is the geographical area and population of Nagaland according to the 2011 Census?

Nagaland covers an area of 16,579 square kilometers (6,401 sq mi). As per the 2011 Census of India, its population was 1,980,602, making it one of the least populated states in India.

How many administrative districts does Nagaland have, and what is notable about its tribes?

Nagaland is divided into 17 administrative districts. The state is inhabited by 17 major tribes, each distinct in customs, language, and dress, with folklore passed down through oral tradition.

When was the State of Nagaland formally inaugurated, and what was its historical administrative status prior to statehood?

The State of Nagaland was formally inaugurated on December 1, 1963, becoming the 16th state of the Indian Union. Prior to this, it was a district within the State of Assam, known as the Naga Hills.

What is the meaning and origin of the name 'Naga'?

The origin of the word 'Naga' is uncertain. Historically, the Naga people were referred to by various names by neighboring groups, such as 'Noga' or 'Naka' by the Ahom kingdom (possibly meaning 'naked'), and 'Nakas' or 'Naga' by the Burmese (possibly meaning 'people with earrings' or referring to pierced noses). The term 'Naganchi' later emerged as an endonym for the region.

What historical events led to the British administration's involvement in the Naga Hills?

In the 19th century, British India forces expanded their influence into Northeast India, including the Naga Hills. Early contact was marked by suspicion and conflict, with British colonial interests in tea estates and trading posts leading to defensive actions against Naga raids. This resulted in military expeditions between 1839 and 1850, after which the British adopted a more cautious policy.

What was the significance of the Battle of Kikrüma in 1851?

The Battle of Kikrüma in February 1851 was a significant conflict where both British troops and the Kikrüma (Naga) people suffered casualties. Following this battle, inter-ethnic warfare occurred, leading the British to adopt a policy of non-interference with Naga ethnic groups for a period.

How did the British administration establish its presence in the Naga Hills, and where was the headquarters eventually located?

Despite a policy of non-interference, colonists continued to enter Naga territory. After the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the British administration established a post at Samaguting in 1866 to curb intertribal warfare and raids. In 1878, the headquarters were transferred to Kohima, which has since become an important administrative, commercial, and cultural center for Nagaland.

What happened during the incident at Khonoma in 1879 involving British officials?

In 1879, British political agent G. H. Damant was shot and killed along with 35 of his team when he visited Khonoma. Kohima was subsequently attacked. This violence prompted a strong response from the British Raj, and the defeat of Khonoma marked the end of significant ultimatums in the Naga Hills.

What role did Christian missionaries play in Nagaland during the British colonial period?

Starting in the mid-19th century, Christian missionaries from the United States and Europe reached Nagaland. They were instrumental in converting the Naga ethnic groups from animistic and folk religious practices to Christianity.

What was the impact of World War II on Nagaland, particularly concerning the Battle of Kohima?

During World War II, the Japanese Army, supported by the Indian National Army, invaded through Burma and attempted to advance into India via Kohima. The population was evacuated, and British and Indian troops defended the area in the Battle of Kohima from April to June 1944. This battle, fought alongside action at Imphal, resulted in significant casualties on both the British Empire and Japanese sides, with many Naga people also affected.

What was the Naga national awakening movement's initial demand presented to the Simon Commission?

In 1929, the Naga Club (which later evolved into the Naga National Council) submitted a memorandum to the Simon Statutory Commission. They requested exemption from proposed reforms and taxes in British India, asking to be left alone to determine their own future as they had in ancient times.

What led to the deployment of the Indian Army in Nagaland after India's independence?

Following India's independence in 1947, nationalist activities among a section of the Nagas, led by Phizo and the Naga National Council, demanded an independent Naga state. This movement resulted in a series of violent incidents, including damage to infrastructure and attacks on officials and civilians, prompting the central government to deploy the Indian Army in 1955 to restore order.

What agreement was reached in 1957 regarding the Naga Hills, and what was the subsequent development in 1960?

In 1957, an agreement between Naga leaders and the Indian government led to the creation of a single, separate region called the Naga Hills Tuensang Area (NHTA), which became an autonomous area under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India. However, this was not satisfactory to the Nagas, and agitation continued. In July 1960, a 16-point agreement was reached between Prime Minister Nehru and Naga People's Convention leaders, recognizing the formation of Nagaland as a full-fledged state within India.

How did Nagaland achieve statehood, and when was its first democratically elected government formed?

Nagaland attained statehood with the enactment of the State of Nagaland Act in 1962 by the Parliament of India. The territory was placed under the Nagaland Transitional Provisions Regulation, 1961, which established an interim body. Nagaland was formally inaugurated on December 1, 1963, and its first democratically elected Nagaland Legislative Assembly was constituted on February 11, 1964.

What significant event occurred in Nagaland in March 1975 regarding governance?

In March 1975, the Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed direct presidential rule on Nagaland. While some rebel leaders agreed to lay down arms and accept the Indian constitution in November 1975, a small faction continued insurgent activities.

What major terrorist attack occurred in Nagaland in 2004?

In 2004, two powerful bombs exploded on the same day at the Dimapur Railway Station and Hong Kong Market, resulting in 30 deaths and over 100 injuries, marking the deadliest terrorist attack in Nagaland to date.

What were the reported civilian and militant fatalities in Nagaland between 2009 and 2013?

Between 2009 and 2013, Nagaland experienced between 0 and 11 civilian deaths per year due to rebellion-related activity. During the same period, militant fatalities from inter-factional killings ranged from 3 to 55 per year.

What caused civil unrest in Nagaland in early 2017?

In early 2017, Nagaland experienced civil unrest and protests in response to the government's announcement to implement 33% women's reservation in Civic Elections.

What incident involving the Indian Army occurred in Mon District in December 2021, and what was the public reaction?

On December 4, 2021, Indian Army's 21st Para Special Forces killed six civilian laborers near Oting Village in Mon District, Nagaland. Subsequent violence led to eight more civilian deaths and one soldier's death. This incident drew widespread condemnation, with many calling for the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

What historical milestone was achieved in the February 2023 Nagaland Legislative Assembly election?

The February 2023 election marked a historical moment for Nagaland as two women candidates, Hekani Jakhalu Kense and Salhoutuonuo Kruse, were elected to the Legislative Assembly for the first time. Salhoutuonuo Kruse later became the first woman minister in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.

What is the geographical location and terrain of Nagaland?

Nagaland is a mountainous state located between 94° and 95° eastern longitude and 25.2° to 27.0° latitude north. The Dzüko Valley is a notable geographical feature located in the southern part of the state.

What is the climate of Nagaland like?

Nagaland experiences a monsoon climate with high humidity. It receives annual rainfall between 1,800-2,500 mm, primarily from May to September. Temperatures range from 21°C to 40°C in general, with winters rarely dropping below 4°C, though frost can occur at higher elevations. Summers are short, with temperatures between 16°C and 31°C.

What percentage of Nagaland's land area is covered by forests, and what types of forests are found there?

Approximately twenty percent of Nagaland's total land area is covered by forests. This includes tropical and subtropical evergreen forests, palms, bamboo, rattan, and mahogany forests, alongside scrub forests, rainforests, and grasslands.

Which national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are located in Nagaland?

Nagaland features several natural reserves, including Ntangki National Park, Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary, Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, and Rangapahar Reserve Forest.

What are some of the notable mammals found in Nagaland?

Nagaland is home to a variety of mammals, including slow loris, various macaques (Assamese, pig-tailed, stump-tailed, rhesus), capped langur, hoolock gibbon, Himalayan black bear, sun bear, dhole, Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, clouded leopard, marbled cat, golden cat, Indian elephant, Indian rhinoceros, gaur, serow, muntjac, hog deer, sambar, pangolin, porcupines, and bamboo rats.

What is the state bird of Nagaland, and where is it sighted?

The state bird of Nagaland is Blyth's tragopan, a vulnerable species of galliform. It is sighted in areas like Mount Japfü, Dzüko Valley, the Satoi range, and Pfütsero.

Why is Nagaland known as the 'falcon capital of the world'?

Nagaland is recognized as the 'falcon capital of the world' due to the large number of Amur falcons that migrate through the Doyang Reservoir annually. These falcons stop to feed on termites during their journey from China and Siberia to Africa.

What is the state animal of Nagaland, and what is its significance?

The Mithun (a semi-domesticated gaur) is the state animal of Nagaland and serves as the official seal for the Government of Nagaland. It is considered ritually the most valued species in the state.

What significant mineral resources are found in Nagaland?

Nagaland possesses significant reserves of petroleum and natural gas. Additionally, it has abundant limestone, marble, and other decorative stones, with unexploited minerals including iron, nickel, chromium, and cobalt.

What was the urbanization rate in Nagaland as of 2011, and which settlements were considered towns?

As of 2011, Nagaland's population was largely rural, with 71.14% living in rural areas. Historically, only Kohima was listed as a town until 1951. By 1961, Dimapur and Mokokchung were added, followed by Tuensang, Wokha, Mon, and Zünheboto in 1981.

What factors contributed to the slow rate of urbanization in Nagaland in the 1980s?

The slow urbanization rate in Nagaland during the 1980s was attributed to the primarily administrative roles of most towns (except Dimapur) and a low level of mobility among the state's tribal population, which constituted nearly 90% of the inhabitants.

What was the population change in Nagaland between the 2001 and 2011 censuses, and what reasons were suggested for this?

Nagaland was the only state to show a population decrease between the 2001 and 2011 censuses, with its population dropping slightly from 1,990,036 to 1,978,502. Scholars attributed this decline to potential inaccuracies in previous census counts, considering the 2011 census to be the most reliable.

What are the life expectancy, infant mortality rate, and fertility rate in Nagaland?

Nagaland boasts a high life expectancy of 75.4 years (79.9 for females, 71.5 for males as of 2019-21), which is among the best in India. The infant mortality rate is very low at 3 per 1,000 births (2019), and the fertility rate of 1.7 children per woman (2019-21) is below the population replacement level.

How many major native Naga ethnic groups reside in Nagaland?

Nagaland is home to 15 major native Naga ethnic groups, including Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sümi, Tikhir, Yimkhiung, and Zeme-Liangmai (Zeliang). There are also other ethnic groups like Kuki and Kachari, as well as smaller tribes such as Garo and Karbi.

What is the official language of Nagaland, and what other language is widely spoken?

The official language of Nagaland is English, which is also used as the medium of education. Additionally, Nagamese, a creole language based on Assamese, is widely spoken throughout the state.

What are the most spoken languages in Nagaland according to the 2011 census?

According to the 2011 census, the most spoken languages in Nagaland include Konyak (244,135 speakers), Ao (231,084), Lotha (177,488), Angami (151,883), Chokri (91,010), Sangtam (75,841), Bengali (74,753), and Zeliang (60,399).

What is the dominant religion in Nagaland, and what percentage of the population practices it?

Christianity is the dominant religion in Nagaland, practiced by approximately 88% of the population. Nagaland is notably recognized as predominantly a Baptist state.

What is the role of the Governor in Nagaland's government?

The Governor serves as the constitutional head of state and the representative of the President of India in Nagaland. While holding largely ceremonial responsibilities, the Governor also has duties related to law and order.

Which political alliances have been significant in Nagaland's government formation?

The Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN), formed in 2003 by the Naga People's Front (NPF) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), headed the government until 2018. Since 2018, an alliance led by the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and BJP has been in power.

What is the total road network in Nagaland, and how does it compare to other states in the region in terms of population served?

Nagaland has over 15,000 km of surfaced roads, although maintenance is challenging due to weather damage. Despite this, Nagaland ranks second in the region, after Arunachal Pradesh, for the population served per kilometer of surfaced road.

What are the major national highways passing through Nagaland?

Key national highways in Nagaland include NH 2 (connecting Dibrugarh to Imphal), NH 29 (connecting Dabaka to Jessami), NH 129 (connecting Dimapur to Numaligarh), NH 129A (connecting Dimapur to Peren), NH 202 (connecting Mokokchung to Imphal), and NH 702 (connecting Changtongya to Sapekhati).

What is the primary airport in Nagaland, and what cities does it serve?

Dimapur Airport is the sole airport in Nagaland, offering scheduled commercial services to Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, and Dibrugarh. It is located approximately 7 km from Dimapur city.

What is Nagaland known for in terms of festivals?

Nagaland is widely recognized as the 'Land of Festivals' due to the rich cultural diversity of its numerous ethnic groups, each celebrating unique festivals throughout the year, often revolving around agriculture.

What is the Hornbill Festival, and what is its purpose?

The Hornbill Festival, named after the revered hornbill bird, is an annual event launched by the Government of Nagaland in December 2000. Held at the Kisama Heritage Village, its purpose is to foster inter-ethnic interaction, revive and protect the state's rich cultural heritage, and showcase its history and traditions.

What are 'Kene' and 'Aki Kiti' in the context of Naga sports?

'Kene,' also known as Naga wrestling, is a traditional folk wrestling style practiced by the Nagas. 'Aki Kiti,' or Sumi kick fighting, is a combat sport characterized by kicking and blocking using only the soles of the feet, historically used to settle disputes without violence.

What are 'Feasts of Merit' in Naga society?

Feasts of Merit were significant rituals in Naga society that allowed individuals, primarily married men, to increase their social status and prestige. These elaborate events involved the sponsor hosting guests from their ethnic group, showcasing their wealth and generosity, and bestowing honor upon the couple.

What is the significance of the Naga Mircha chilli?

Naga Mircha is a variety of chilli primarily grown in Nagaland, known for being one of the world's hottest. It is deeply rooted in the region's lifestyle, serving as a primary source of income for local farmers and an integral part of Nagaland's culinary identity. It was the first chilli variety from Nagaland to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

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Etymology

Linguistic Origins

The precise origin of the term 'Naga' remains a subject of scholarly debate. Historical accounts suggest various appellations used by neighboring peoples: the Ahom kingdom referred to them as 'Noga' or 'Naka', potentially meaning 'naked'. The Meitei people of the Imphal Valley used 'Hao', while the Burmese called them 'Nakas' or 'Naga', possibly signifying 'people with earrings' or referring to pierced noses. Over time, 'Nakanchi' or 'Naganchi' evolved as an endonym for the region. In contemporary discourse, some cultural advocates propose renaming the state 'Naganchi' to reflect this heritage.

Historical Context

Prior to European colonial influence in South Asia, the Naga territories experienced periods of conflict, persecution, and raids originating from Burma. These incursions were often motivated by the pursuit of 'head hunting', wealth, and captives. Early European explorers, when inquiring about the inhabitants of the northern Himalayan regions, were reportedly informed of 'Naka' people, a term subsequently recorded as 'Naga'. This designation has persisted, though its etymological roots are complex and varied.

Historical Trajectory

Early Encounters and British Rule

The ancient history of the Naga people is not extensively documented, with various ethnic groups migrating and establishing distinct territories. Their origins are generally traced to the east of India. The British East India Company's expansion into Northeast India in the 19th century led to increased contact with the Naga Hills. Initial interactions were marked by suspicion and conflict, particularly concerning raids by Naga tribes. British military expeditions were undertaken to quell these raids, leading to significant engagements such as the Battle of Kikrümā in 1851. Following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the British Crown assumed greater control, establishing administrative posts like Samaguting in 1866 to manage inter-tribal relations and raids. The transfer of headquarters to Kohima in 1878 marked the establishment of a key administrative center.

World War II and Nationalist Awakening

During World War II, Nagaland became a significant theater of conflict. In 1944, Japanese forces, allied with the Indian National Army, attempted an invasion through Kohima. The Battle of Kohima, fought from April to June 1944, saw fierce resistance from British Indian Army soldiers and Naga allies against the invading forces. The battle resulted in substantial casualties on both sides and is commemorated at the Kohima War Cemetery. In the post-war period, a burgeoning Naga nationalism emerged. In 1929, the Naga Club submitted a memorandum to the Simon Commission, advocating for self-determination and exemption from proposed reforms, laying the groundwork for the Naga National Council's later demands.

Post-Independence and Statehood

Following India's independence in 1947, the Naga Hills, initially part of Assam, became a focal point of nationalist aspirations. The Naga National Council's demand for an independent Naga state led to a protracted insurgency. The Indian government maintained Nagaland's status as an integral part of the Union. After periods of administrative arrangements, including the formation of the Naga Hills Tuensang Area (NHTA) under the Sixth Schedule, Nagaland was formally established as the 16th state of India on December 1, 1963. A democratically elected government was installed in 1964. Despite the establishment of statehood, periods of unrest and negotiations continued throughout the late 20th century, with significant events including the 1975 Shillong Accord and the ongoing pursuit of peace initiatives.

Geographical Landscape

Mountainous Terrain

Nagaland is characterized by its mountainous topography, situated between 25.2° and 27.0° North latitude and 93.0° and 95.0° East longitude. The state's landscape is dominated by hills and valleys, with elevations varying significantly. The highest point is Mount Saramati, reaching approximately 3,826 meters (12,552 feet). The Dhansiri River marks one of the lower elevation points.

Forests and Valleys

Approximately 20% of Nagaland's land area is covered by forests, encompassing tropical and subtropical evergreen varieties, including palms, bamboo, and mahogany. While some areas have been cleared for traditional Jhum (slash-and-burn) cultivation, significant tracts of scrub forests, rainforests, and grasslands persist. Notable geographical features include the picturesque Dzükou Valley, located in the southern region near Viswema, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and the Doyang River, a vital water resource.

Climate Patterns

Monsoon Influence

Nagaland experiences a predominantly monsoon climate, characterized by high humidity levels throughout the year. Annual rainfall averages between 1,800 and 2,500 millimeters (70-100 inches), with the monsoon season typically occurring from May to September. Temperatures fluctuate seasonally, generally ranging from 21°C to 40°C (70°F to 104°F) during the summer months. Winters are cooler, with temperatures rarely dropping below 4°C (39°F), though frost is common at higher altitudes. Strong northwest winds are prevalent during February and March.

Flora and Fauna

Avian Wonders and Mammalian Diversity

Nagaland's rich biodiversity includes a remarkable array of flora and fauna. The state is recognized as the "falcon capital of the world" due to the annual congregation of hundreds of thousands of Amur falcons at the Doyang Reservoir during their migratory journey. Blyth's tragopan, a vulnerable species of galliform bird, is the state bird and is found in protected areas like Mount Japfü and the Dzükou Valley. The state animal is the Mithun (a semi-domesticated gaur), which holds significant cultural and ritualistic value. The forests support diverse mammalian life, including various primate species, bears, wild dogs, leopards, and deer. The state is also home to numerous orchid species, many of which possess horticultural and medicinal importance.

Economic Landscape

Agriculture and Resources

The primary sector, predominantly agriculture, contributes significantly to Nagaland's economy. Rice is the staple crop, occupying a substantial portion of the cultivated area, with Jhum (shifting cultivation) still prevalent despite its environmental impact. Other important agricultural activities include plantation crops like coffee, cardamom, and tea, which have considerable growth potential. The state possesses substantial reserves of minerals such as coal, limestone, iron, nickel, and cobalt. While tourism holds significant promise, its development has been historically constrained by factors such as insurgency. The state faces a deficit in power generation, necessitating reliance on external sources, though significant hydroelectric potential remains untapped.

Development Indicators

Nagaland's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has shown consistent growth, leading to an increase in per capita income. The state boasts a high literacy rate, and English serves as the official language, facilitating education and administration. Notably, Nagaland exhibits exceptional health indicators, including a high life expectancy and a low infant mortality rate, comparable to developed nations. The fertility rate is below the population replacement level, contributing to demographic stability.

Connectivity

Road Networks

The mountainous terrain of Nagaland presents considerable challenges to transportation infrastructure. Roadways form the primary network, with over 15,000 km of surfaced roads. Despite weather-related maintenance issues, Nagaland demonstrates a favorable ratio of surfaced road length per capita, serving its population effectively. Key national and international highways traverse the state, including segments of the Asian Highway 1 and 2, and various National Highways such as NH 2, NH 29, NH 129, NH 129A, NH 202, NH 702, and NH 702B, connecting it to neighboring regions and beyond.

Air Access

Dimapur Airport serves as Nagaland's sole airport, providing scheduled commercial flights to major cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, and Dibrugarh. Located near Dimapur city, it is the primary gateway for air travel into the state, facilitating connectivity and economic activity.

Demographic Profile

Population and Urbanization

As of the 2011 Census, Nagaland's population was approximately 1.98 million, with a notable demographic shift showing a slight decrease compared to previous estimates, attributed to more accurate census methodologies. The majority of the population resides in rural areas, though urbanization is gradually increasing, with Dimapur and Kohima being the principal urban centers. The state's population distribution is uneven, with Kohima and Dimapur having the largest populations, while Longleng is the least populated district.

Linguistic Diversity

Nagaland is characterized by immense linguistic diversity, primarily due to its numerous indigenous Naga tribes. While English is the official language and the medium of instruction, Nagamese, a creole language derived from Assamese, serves as a widely spoken lingua franca. The 2011 census data highlights the prevalence of languages such as Konyak, Ao, Lotha, and Angami, alongside significant Bengali and Nepali speaking communities, reflecting the state's multicultural fabric.

Religious Composition

Christianity is the predominant religion in Nagaland, with approximately 88% of the population identifying as Christian, predominantly Baptist. This strong Christian presence has earned Nagaland the distinction of being a predominantly Baptist state. Hinduism constitutes the second largest religious group, followed by Islam. Smaller communities practice Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, while a small percentage of the population identifies as non-religious or adheres to indigenous folk religions.

Governance Structure

Constitutional Framework

Nagaland operates under a parliamentary democratic system. The Governor serves as the constitutional head of the state and the representative of the President of India, fulfilling largely ceremonial duties, though responsible for law and order. The state legislature is unicameral, comprising the Nagaland Legislative Assembly. Political power is typically held by coalitions, with parties like the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) forming alliances to govern.

Electoral Processes

Elections are held periodically to elect members to the Legislative Assembly. Recent elections have seen significant milestones, such as the historic election of the first women candidates to the Assembly, reflecting evolving social dynamics. The state's political landscape is shaped by various regional and national parties, with coalition governments being a common feature.

Administrative Divisions

District Overview

Nagaland is administratively divided into seventeen districts, each with its own headquarters and distinct characteristics. These districts are the primary units of governance and administration within the state. The table below provides key details regarding their area, elevation, population figures from the 2011 census, and the year of their establishment.

Districts of Nagaland
District	Seat	Area (km²)	Elevation (m)	Population total	Population rural	Population urban	Date created
Chümoukedima District	Chümoukedima	610	171	125,400	81,884	43,516	2021
Dimapur District	Dimapur	70	145	170,000	0	170,000	1997
Kiphire District	Kiphire	1,130	896	74,004	57,517	16,487	2004
Kohima District	Kohima	1,207	1,444	267,988	146,900	121,088	1957
Longleng District	Longleng	885	1,100	50,484	42,871	7,613	2004
Mokokchung District	Mokokchung	1,719	1,325	194,622	138,897	55,725	1957
Mon District	Mon	1,786	655	250,260	215,816	34,444	1973
Niuland District	Niuland	n/a	154	11,876	11,876	0	2021
Noklak District	Noklak	1,152		59,300	59,300	0	2017
Peren District	Peren	2,300	1,445	95,219	81,429	13,790	2004
Phek District	Phek	2,026	1,524	163,418	138,843	24,575	1973
Shamator District	Shamator	n/a	n/a	12,726	n/a	n/a	2022
Tseminyü District	Tseminyü	256	1,261	63,629	60,766	2,863	2021
Tuensang District	Tuensang	2,536	1,371	137,296	100,522	36,774	1957
Wokha District	Wokha	1,628	1,313	166,343	131,339	35,004	1973
Zünheboto District	Zünheboto	1,255	1,852	140,757	113,160	27,597	1973

Cultural Heritage

Festivals of Nagaland

Nagaland is celebrated as the "Land of Festivals," a testament to its vibrant cultural mosaic. The state hosts a year-round calendar of celebrations, deeply rooted in the agricultural cycles and traditions of its diverse ethnic groups. Each of the major tribes observes unique festivals, often involving elaborate rituals, communal feasts, and traditional performances. These festivals are crucial for maintaining cultural identity and fostering inter-tribal harmony.

Major Tribal Festivals of Nagaland
Ethnic Group	Festival	Celebrated In
Angami	Sekrenyi	February
Ao	Moatsu, Tsüngremong	May, August
Chakhesang	Tsükhenyie, Sukhrünyie	April/May, January
Chang	Naknyülüm, Kundanglüm	April, July
Dimasa Kachari	Bushu Jiba	January, April
Khiamniungan	Miu, Tsoküm	May, October
Konyak	Aoleang, Lao-ong Mo	April, September
Kuki	Mimkut, Chavang Kut	January, November
Lotha	Tokhù Emong	November
Phom	Monyiü, Moha, Bongvüm	April, May, October
Pochury	Yemshe	October
Rengma	Ngada	November
Sangtam	Mungmung	September
Rongmei	Gaan-ngai	January
Sümi	Ahuna, Tülüni	November, July
Yimkhiungrü	Metümnyo, Tsungkamniu	August, January
Zeliang	Hega, Langsimyi/Chaga Gadi and Mileinyi	February, October, March

The Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival, launched by the Government of Nagaland in December 2000, is a premier cultural event held annually at the Kisama Heritage Village. This week-long festival aims to foster inter-ethnic dialogue and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland. It brings together all the Naga tribes, featuring traditional performances, crafts, indigenous games, food stalls, and exhibitions. Named after the revered hornbill bird, which features prominently in Naga folklore, the festival serves as a vital platform for cultural preservation and promotion, attracting visitors from across India and the globe.

Religious Landscape

Dominance of Christianity

Christianity is the overwhelmingly dominant religion in Nagaland, with approximately 88% of the population adhering to Christian faiths, predominantly Baptist denominations. This profound Christian influence has shaped the state's social and cultural fabric, making it unique among Indian states. The arrival of Christian missionaries in the early 19th century played a pivotal role in this demographic shift, converting many Naga communities from their traditional animistic and folk religious practices.

Other Faiths

Hinduism is the second largest religion, with adherents concentrated primarily in the Dimapur and Kohima districts. Islam is the third most practiced religion, with its followers mainly residing in Dimapur. Smaller communities also practice Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Indigenous folk religions continue to be practiced by certain Naga groups, particularly among the Zeliangrong communities, though their prevalence has diminished with the widespread adoption of Christianity.

Religion in Nagaland (2011)

Christianity (87.9%)
Hinduism (8.75%)
Islam (2.47%)
Buddhism (0.34%)
Jainism (0.13%)
Sikhism (0.10%)
Other religion (0.16%)
Not religious (0.12%)

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References

Gordon Pruett, Christianity, history, and culture in Nagaland, Indian Sociology January 1974 vol. 8 no. 1, pp. 51-65

Tezenlo Thong, "'Thy Kingdom Come': The Impact of Colonization and Proselytization on Religion among the Nagas," Journal of Asian and African Studies, no. 45, 6: 595â609

Bert Sim, Mosstodloch, Aberdeenshire, Scotland: Pipe Major of the Gordon Highlanders at Kohima: his home is named "Kohima." â RJWilliams, Slingerlands, NY/USA

Matisoff, J. A. (1980). Stars, moon, and spirits: bright beings of the night in Sino-Tibetan, Gengo Kenkyu, 77(1), 45

Khubchandani, L. M. (1997), Bilingual education for indigenous people in India. In Encyclopedia of Language and Education Volume 5, pp 67-76, Springer Netherlands

Vibha Joshia, The Birth of Christian Enthusiasm among the Angami of Nagaland, Journal of South Asian Studies, Volume 30, Issue 3, 2007, pages 541-557

Olson, C. Gordon. What in the World Is God Doing. Global Gospel Publishers: Cedar Knolls, NJ. 2003.

Drouyer, A. Isabel, RenÃ© Drouyer, THE NAGAS: MEMORIES OF HEADHUNTERS- Indo-Burmese Borderlands- Volume 1", White Lotus, 2016, p.168.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Nagaland Wikipedia page

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Nagaland: A Tapestry of Tribes and Traditions

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Etymology 📜

🗣️ Linguistic Origins

⚔️ Historical Context

Historical Trajectory ⏳

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🌍 World War II and Nationalist Awakening

🇮🇳 Post-Independence and Statehood

Geographical Landscape 🏞️

⛰️ Mountainous Terrain

🌳 Forests and Valleys

Climate Patterns ☀️

🌧️ Monsoon Influence

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🦅 Avian Wonders and Mammalian Diversity

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Connectivity 🚗

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✈️ Air Access

Demographic Profile 👥

📊 Population and Urbanization

🗣️ Linguistic Diversity

🛐 Religious Composition

Governance Structure 🏛️

👑 Constitutional Framework

🗳️ Electoral Processes

Administrative Divisions 📍

🗺️ District Overview

Cultural Heritage 🎭

🎉 Festivals of Nagaland

🦅 The Hornbill Festival

Religious Landscape 🛐

✝️ Dominance of Christianity

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Etymology

Linguistic Origins

Historical Context

Historical Trajectory

Early Encounters and British Rule

World War II and Nationalist Awakening

Post-Independence and Statehood

Geographical Landscape

Mountainous Terrain

Forests and Valleys

Climate Patterns

Monsoon Influence

Flora and Fauna

Avian Wonders and Mammalian Diversity

Economic Landscape

Agriculture and Resources

Development Indicators

Connectivity

Road Networks

Air Access

Demographic Profile

Population and Urbanization

Linguistic Diversity

Religious Composition

Governance Structure

Constitutional Framework

Electoral Processes

Administrative Divisions

District Overview

Cultural Heritage

Festivals of Nagaland

The Hornbill Festival

Religious Landscape

Dominance of Christianity

Other Faiths

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice