Nagaland

Area :16579 square kilometers.

Capital :Kohima

Population :19,88,636

Language :Naga languages is divided into three groups : the western sub-group includes languages like Angami,Sema,Rengma and Chakhesang,the central sub-group includes Ao,Lotha and Phom while the eastern sub-group includes Chang and Konyak languages.

People :Nagaland has many tribes each with its distinctive language and cultural features. Some of the prominent tribes are the Kukis,Angamis,Aos,Konyaks,Lothas,Semas and Wanchus. The people live mainly in the villages.

Economy :Agriculture is the main occupation of the economy with 90% of the population involved in it. Other popular occupations include sericulture and bee keeping. Much of the exquisite artefacts are made by home made colours and bamboo. Weaving is a traditional art handed down through generations in Nagaland.

Climate :The climate is pleasant in Nagaland. Nagaland sees heavy rains. The average rainfall is between 175cm and 250 cm. Most of the heavy rainfall occurs in the period of June to September. The rains during April to May is low. Strong winds blow from the north west in February and March.

History :In the period between 1819 to 1832,the Burmese tried to extend their rule in the northeast. Simultaneously th British were increasing their empire in India. British occupation brought many deep-rooted changes in Naga life. This spread of education led to increased political awareness. Also the introduction of English enabled the different tribes to develop a coherent identity,around a common language.

In the 1920s,the Nagas united under Haipou Jadonang,who stressed the importance of education,and the need to discard superstition. In 1931,he began the Zeliangrong Movement in the Naga Hills and stepped against the British rule proclaiming Naga Raj. He was arrested and was hanged by the British. After the India's independence in 1947,Nagaland became a full-fledged state in the year 1963.