Tribe

Khiamniungan is one of the main Naga tribes with habitations in both India and Myanmar.

Geographical Location

The eastern part of Nagaland in India and the northwestern part of Myanmar.

Etymology

The term "Khiamniungan" is derived from three words: 'Khiam' (water), 'Niu' (big), and 'Ngan' (source). It means "the source of a large water or river."

Population

As per the 2011 Census, the population of the Khiamniungan tribe in India is 61,983.

Main Festivals

Tsokum: A significant holiday celebrated with great pomp and gaiety.

Khaotzao Sey Hok-ah Sumai: Marks the end of all agricultural activities for the year.

Location

Situated in the northeastern region of India, Nagaland shares borders with Assam to the west, Arunachal Pradesh to the north, Manipur to the south, and Myanmar to the east.

Topography

Mostly mountainous and hilly, with steep hills, valleys, and ridges. The Saramati Peak, is the highest point in Nagaland.

Climate

Subtropical climate, with significant rainfall during the monsoon season. Winters are cool, and summers are warm.

Rivers

Major rivers include the Doyang, Dikhu, Dhansiri, Tizu, and Zungki, which play a crucial role in irrigation and water supply.

Vegetation

Lush forests with diverse flora, including tropical and subtropical evergreens, bamboo, and conifers.

Biodiversity

Rich in biodiversity, home to unique wildlife such as the Blyth's tragopan, hoolock gibbons, and several endemic bird species.

Soil

Fertile and loamy soil in valleys, with sandy and clayey soils in the hilly regions.

Natural Resources

Rich in mineral resources like coal, limestone, and petroleum.

Geological Features

Part of the Patkai range, characterized by its young, folded mountains formed during the Himalayan orogeny.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.It is one of the major tribe among the Nagas, with habitation both in India and Myanmar. There are no written records of their history before the British Raj days. However, the only source of information about their ancestors are oral traditions in the form of folktales and myths.

The above-given description is related to which among the following tribes?

(a) Khiamniungans.

(b) Angami.

(c) Rongmei.

(d) Chang.

Answer: a

Explanation:

The Khiamniungans are a Naga ethnic group, with approximately 35% of the population inhabiting in Noklak District in the Northeast Indian state of Nagaland and the rest in the Naga Self-Administered Zone and Hkamti District of Myanmar. The origin of the Khiamniungans remains uncertain but the earliest consideration that generally traces back to a place called Khiamnyunga. There are no written records of their history before the British Raj days. However, the only source of information about their ancestors are oral traditions in the form of folktales and myths.