Skip to main content

The Rongmei Settlement

By Administrator
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


Popular Posts

HOME

By Administrator
The Rongmei community, a subgroup of the Naga tribe, resides across the states of Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland in India's northeastern region. They identify themselves as part of the larger Zeliangrong Naga community. The Indian government's actions have led to concerns about the preservation of their unique identities. While a significant portion of the Rongmei population is concentrated in Manipur, there is also a notable presence in Assam's Barak Valley. Their primary language is Rongmei, also known as Ruanglat. The term "Rongmei" is a combination of two words: "Nruang," meaning South, and "mei," meaning people, signifying "people of the south." The Ethnologue, an international language database, recognizes their language with the code "NBU" for the Rongmei dialect (https://www.ethnologue.com/language/nbu). The Rongmei tribe has a historical connection with Barak (Aguh) Valley, where they are considered one of the earlie...
2 comments
Read more

Clans in Rongmei

By Administrator
The major clans are Gonmei, Kamei, Gangmei and Rwangmei or Longmei. Every clan has a totem which is a symbol or emblem of a clan or family and it is a food taboos either an animal or bird, or tree or plants. The totems of these clans are Roingao bird of Gonmei, Ahuina (green pigeon) of Kamei, Tiger of Gangmei and white pumpkin/dog of Rwangmei. Each major clan is subdivided into a number of lineages. The lineage is a socially binding and an intermediary unit in between family and clan. ( ref ) Image: from Binnakandi Gonmei/Golmei clan is subdivided into lineages like: 1. Gonthangmei 2. Gondaimei 3. Remmei/Riamei, 4. Maringmei, 5. Dangmei, 6. Panmei/Palmei and 7. Thaimei Kamei clan has: 1. Pamei Phaomei, 2. Siangongmei, Ngaomei, 3. Khandangmei Malangmei, 4. Kamson and 5. Daimei. Gangmei clan also has lineages such as: 1. Kamang Gangmei, 2. Pheiga Gangmei, 3. Sidou Gangmei, 4. Jukhao Gangmei, 5. Goijaichang Gangmei, 6. Taokhondai Gangmei and 7. Pongring Gangmei. ...
2 comments
Read more

Chaakan Gaan-Ngai

By Administrator
INTRODUCTION Image: A-pao Gaan Ngai Festival: Nurturing the Heart of Zeliangrong Culture Culture, tradition, and religious practices are threads that intricately weave the identity of a community. For the Zeliangrong people, the Gaan Ngai Festival stands as a pinnacle, embodying their cultural and religious essence. This festival, also known as Chaakan Gaan-Ngai, serves as a vibrant tapestry that not only unites the Zeliangrong community but also reflects their historical journey and spiritual connection. From its origin to its modern-day celebration, Gaan Ngai Festival holds a special place in the hearts and lives of the Zeliangrong people, residing in the states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam. A Triad of Names and Uniting Essence The Zeliangrong community, a collective term for Zemei, Liangmai, and Rongmei (Kabui) tribes, along with Puimei, came into being on February 15, 1947, at Keishamthong Kabui Village. Gaan Ngai Festival, also known as Gin-Ngi among the Liangmai, Hega-Ngi amo...
Post a Comment
Read more

Heraka

By Administrator
The Zeliangrong people of Northeast India follow a significant indigenous religion known as Heraka. The term "Heraka" originates from the Zemei language and translates to "pure and not impure." The ideology behind Heraka is centered around the veneration of Tingwang, the supreme deity. The religion emphasizes purity, monotheism, and the avoidance of blood sacrifices associated with smaller deities. Image: Wikipedia In the Zeliangrong belief system, Heraka is not a departure from their traditional practices but rather a rational enhancement. The core concept revolves around worshiping only Tingwang, which represents monotheism. Heraka brings a sense of unity and understanding among the community, fostering peace and love. The religion promotes love for parents, self-discipline, and truthfulness. Tingwang is regarded as the creator of the universe, responsible for the Sun, Moon, stars, Earth, water, air, humans, animals, and all living things. The deity is considered...
Post a Comment
Read more

Rani Gaidinliu and Heraka Religion

By Administrator
India is currently commemorating the birth centenary of Rani Gaidinliu, an exceptional figure in the annals of its history. Her role in the struggle for India's independence against the mighty British Empire and her endeavors to reform the socio-religious landscape have positioned her as a significant and inspirational figure. Despite her profound contributions, her name and achievements remain conspicuously absent from mainstream history textbooks and educational curricula, a glaring oversight that underscores the need to recognize her rightful place among Indian freedom fighters. Image: Epao Born on the 26th of January, 1915, in Nungkao, a Rongmei village nestled between the Barak and Makru rivers in the Tamenglong District of Manipur, Rani Gaidinliu's name translates to "bearer of good news." From a tender age, she exhibited extraordinary qualities and a courageous spirit that set her apart. Her life took a transformative turn when she encountered a young girl in ...
Post a Comment
Read more