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The Rongmei Settlement

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Impact of Encroachment and Land Scarcity

One of the most significant challenges facing the Rongmei Naga tribe is encroachment on their traditional lands. The large-scale migration of non-tribal communities into the areas inhabited by the Rongmei Naga has led to increased competition for land and resources. As the plains population expanded, the pressure on available land became intense, causing the Rongmei Naga to gradually lose their ancestral lands.

The Rongmei Naga people primarily practiced shifting cultivation, known as 'jhumming,' as their traditional method of agriculture. However, the availability of land suitable for jhum cultivation has decreased due to population growth and encroachment by outsiders. The Rongmei Naga faced the dilemma of maintaining their agricultural practices in the face of diminishing land resources.

Transition to Non-Agricultural Occupations
The displacement from their traditional habitats and the scarcity of land forced the Rongmei Naga to adapt to alternative livelihoods. They began to explore non-agricultural occupations as a means of economic survival. This transition marked a significant shift in their socio-economic life.

Many Rongmei Naga individuals started seeking employment in urban areas or engaged in various wage-earning activities. As towns and cities grew, the allure of employment opportunities drew them away from their traditional agricultural pursuits. The Rongmei Naga people found themselves increasingly involved in wage labor, working in various sectors such as construction, tea plantations, and other service industries.

Changes in Traditional Economic Practices
The encroachment by outsiders and the changing economic landscape also affected the traditional economic practices of the Rongmei Naga tribe. They witnessed a gradual shift from subsistence agriculture to market-oriented production. While agriculture had primarily been for self-consumption, the need to generate income led them to focus more on cash crops.

With the growth of towns and markets, the Rongmei Naga people started cultivating crops like ginger, brinjal, and other vegetables, which could be sold in local markets. This shift in agricultural practices reflected their evolving economic needs and the impact of modernization on their traditional way of life.

Socio-Economic Disparities
The influx of outsiders and the changing economic landscape created disparities within the Rongmei Naga community. Some individuals found opportunities in urban areas and improved their economic status, while others faced challenges in adapting to non-agricultural occupations. This socioeconomic divide within the community raised issues of inequality.

The traditional support systems that had existed within the clan and lineage were disrupted by the migration of Rongmei Naga individuals to distant urban areas. Kinship ties, which had played a crucial role in providing support during times of need, became strained as families were dispersed.

Preservation of Culture and Identity
Despite the socio-economic challenges brought about by migration and encroachment, the Rongmei Naga people remain deeply committed to preserving their rich cultural heritage and identity. They continue to hold onto their traditions, customs, and values, passing them down from generation to generation.

Religious practices, annual festivals, dances, and folk songs continue to be an integral part of Rongmei Naga culture. These cultural expressions play a vital role in maintaining a sense of unity and identity within the community.

Conclusion
The socio-economic impact of encroachment and migration on the Rongmei Naga tribe is a complex issue. While it has led to changes in their traditional way of life and economic practices, the community remains resilient and determined to preserve its cultural heritage.

The challenges posed by land scarcity and the need for alternative livelihoods have forced adaptation, but the Rongmei Naga people have managed to strike a balance between modernization and the preservation of their identity. Their commitment to maintaining their traditions in the face of socio-economic changes is a testament to the strength of their cultural heritage.

As the Rongmei Naga tribe navigates the evolving socio-economic landscape, it is essential to recognize the value of their traditions and work toward addressing the disparities within the community. Supporting initiatives that promote economic opportunities while respecting their cultural identity can help ensure a more inclusive and sustainable future for the Rongmei Naga people.

Bibliography:

Gaichangpou Ruangmei. Origin and Settlement Pattern of Rongmei Ethnic Villages in Thangmeiband Assembly Constituency of Manipur State, Research Scholar, ACEE, School of Social Sciences, Manipur University. (Volume2, Issue8). www.ijarnd.com.

Golmei Jenthui Rongmei, Struggle For Survival: The Rongmei Nagas In Barak Valley. Research Scholar, Assam University. © 2019 JETIR June 2019, Volume 6, Issue 6. www.jetir.org (ISSN-2349-5162) JETIR1908983. Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (JETIR) www.jetir.org 284


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