Nagaland geography

Scheduled tribes of Nagaland

Angami Naga

The Angamis are a major Naga ethnic group native to the state of Nagaland in North-East India. They are listed as a Scheduled Tribe, in the 5th schedule of the Indian Constitution. They are known for the Sekrenyi celebrations every February. The Angami Nagas are settled in Kohima District and Dimapur District.

The Angami Nagas are hill people depending basically on cultivation and livestock-rearing. The Angamis are known for terraced wet-rice cultivation; because of this labor-intensive cultivation, land is the most important form of property among them. They are one of the only two groups of Nagas out of the seventeen who practice wet-rice cultivation on terraces made on the hill slopes. This allows them to cultivate the same plot year after year. They depend, to a very small extent, on slash-and-burn cultivation.

Ao Naga

The Aos are one of the major Naga tribes of Nagaland, Northeast India. They were the first Naga tribe to embrace Christianity and by virtue of this development the Aos availed themselves to Western education that came along with Christianity . In the process the Aos became the pioneering tribe among the Nagas in many fields. Christianity first entered into the Ao territory when an American Baptist missionary, Edwin W. Clark, reached an Ao village called Molungkimong in 1872. Their main territory is from Tsula (Dikhu) Valley in the east to Tsurang (Disai) Valley in the west in Mokokchung district. They are well known for multiple harvest festivals held each year.

Chang Naga

Chang is a Naga of Nagaland, India. It is one of the recognized Scheduled Tribes.  The tribe was also known as Mazung in British India. Other Naga tribes know the Changs by different names including Changhai (Khiamniungan), Changru (Yimchunger), Duenching (upper Konyak), Machungrr (Ao), Mochumi (Sema) and Mojung (Konyak).

According to oral tradition, the Changs emerged from a place called Changsangmongko, and later settled at Changsang. The word Chang is said to have been derived the word chognu (banyan tree), after a mythical banyan tree that grew at the now-abandoned Changsang.  Another theory says that the Chang migrated to present-day Nagaland from the east, and therefore call themselves Chang (“Eastern” in the local dialect). Some Changs also claim the Aos as their ancestors.[5] The Chang folklore is similar to that of the Ao.

Khiamniungan people

Khiamniungan is one of the major Naga tribes, mainly found in the Noklak district of Nagaland, India and the adjoining areas of Burma.Khiamniungan which literally translates to source of great waters.[citation needed] They were also called Kalyo-Kenyu (“slate-house dwellers”) during the British Raj.

Lotha Naga

Lotha is the name of a major Naga tribe inhabiting the Wokha district of Nagaland.

Wokha is the traditional home of the Lotha tribe. Lothas are renowned for their colorful dances and folk songs. The male members wear shawls indicating their social status. The prestigious social shawl for women is Opvuram and Longpensu for men.  Like many Nagas, the Lothas practiced headhunting in the older days. After the arrival of Christianity, they gave up this practice. Though the majority of the Lothas are Baptist, there exist a moderate amount of other forms of Christianity like the Catholics. Catholics are concentrated more in Wokha than in other parts of Nagaland.  Tokhu Emong and Pikhuchak are the main festivals celebrated amidst much pomp and splendor. Tokhu Emong is celebrated on November 7.

The Tokhü Emong is the harvest festival of the Lothas. With the harvest done and the granaries full, the people now take a respite from the toils and sweat and settle down to enjoy the fruits of one’s hard labour.

Sangtam Naga

The Sangtams are a Naga tribe living in the Tuensang and Kiphire districts of Nagaland.  Like many other tribal groups in Northeast India, they practice jhum, or shifting cultivation. Unlike other Naga tribes in Nagaland, many of the Sangtam have retained their traditional beliefs in spite of embracing Christianity at the same time. Sangtams celebrate twelve different festivals, in particular Mongmong, all of which are affiliated with their traditional culture and religion.

Sumi Naga

The ‘Sumi Naga’ is one of the major Naga peoples in Nagaland, India. The Sumis mainly inhabit Zunheboto district, although many have spread and are now living in a few more districts within Nagaland.  Sumi Naga tribe practiced kiti-do and were headhunters as every other Naga tribe.  The Sumis practised headhunting like other Naga peoples before the arrival of the Christian missionaries and their subsequent conversion to Christianity. Anthropological study of the Sumis is documented in the book The Sema Nagas by J. H. Hutton, who was a Professor of Social Anthropology in the University of Cambridge. The Sumi is one of the recognised scheduled tribes of India.

Population of Nagaland

The population of Nagaland consists of almost two million people, of which 1.04 million are males and 0.95 million females. Among its districts, Dimapur has the largest population (379,769), followed by Kohima (270,063). The least populated district is Longleng (50,593). 75% of the population lives in the rural areas. As of 2013, about 10% of rural population is below the poverty line; among the people living in urban areas 4.3% of them are below the poverty line.

As per the Census 2011 out of total population of Nagaland, 28.86% people lived in urban regions while 71.14% in rural areas. The total figure of population of urban population was 570,966 out of which 299,177 were males while remaining 271,789 were females. In rural areas of Nagaland, male population was 725,472 while female population was 682,064.  The average sex ratio in urban regions of Nagaland was 908 females per 1000 males. Also the Child (0-6 age) sex ration of urban areas in Nagaland was 973 girls per 1000 boys. Thus the total children (0-6 age) living in urban areas of Nagaland were 73,589 which is 12.89% of total urban population. Similarly the average sex ratio in rural areas of Nagaland was 940 females per 1000 males. The Child sex ratio of rural areas in Nagaland was 933 girls per 1000 boys.

The average literacy rate in Nagaland for urban regions was 89.62 percent in which males were 91.62% literate while female literacy stood at 87.4%. The total literate population of Nagaland was 1,342,434. Similarly in rural areas of Nagaland, the average literacy rate was 75.35 percent. Out of which literacy rate of males and females stood at 78.96% and 71.51% respectively. Total literates in rural areas of Nagaland were 896,663.

The population of Nagaland consists of almost two million people, of which 1.04 million are males and 0.95 million females. Among its districts, Dimapur has the largest population (379,769), followed by Kohima (270,063). The least populated district is Longleng (50,593). 75% of the population lives in the rural areas. As of 2013, about 10% of rural population is below the poverty line; among the people living in urban areas 4.3% of them are below the poverty line.

As per the Census 2011 out of total population of Nagaland, 28.86% people lived in urban regions while 71.14% in rural areas. The total figure of population of urban population was 570,966 out of which 299,177 were males while remaining 271,789 were females. In rural areas of Nagaland, male population was 725,472 while female population was 682,064.  The average sex ratio in urban regions of Nagaland was 908 females per 1000 males. Also the Child (0-6 age) sex ration of urban areas in Nagaland was 973 girls per 1000 boys. Thus the total children (0-6 age) living in urban areas of Nagaland were 73,589 which is 12.89% of total urban population. Similarly the average sex ratio in rural areas of Nagaland was 940 females per 1000 males. The Child sex ratio of rural areas in Nagaland was 933 girls per 1000 boys.

The average literacy rate in Nagaland for urban regions was 89.62 percent in which males were 91.62% literate while female literacy stood at 87.4%. The total literate population of Nagaland was 1,342,434. Similarly in rural areas of Nagaland, the average literacy rate was 75.35 percent. Out of which literacy rate of males and females stood at 78.96% and 71.51% respectively. Total literates in rural areas of Nagaland were 896,663.

Irrigation and hydro power in Nagaland

Irrigation

Major & Medium Irrigation

Till today, there is not a single project under Major & Medium Irrigation. However, the department has conducted survey works and identified a few areas where Medium Irrigation schemes construction are feasible. It is the endeavor of the Department to seek funding agency to get section and implement at least one of such scheme for the benefit of the larger farming community.

Minor Irrigation

This type of scheme is commonly implemented throughout the length and breadth of the State. It is generally suitable in the state of Terraced Rice cultivation (TRC) Vegetable cultivation both during Kharif and Rabi season. In this type of Irrigation water is diverted and carried by a channel to the command areas. Wherever such diversion of flow of water is not possible, lift irrigation and source of ground water provided. Since the nature of work is private and individuals oriented, the minor irrigation are implemented through water Users Associations and payments are made as per works executed under the technical supervision of the department and finally handed over to WUA’s for their future maintenance.

Hydro power projects in Nagaland

The history of electricity in Nagaland is uninspiring.  Plagued by consistent power shortages since its inception, the issue to this day remains a political card played only during the time of elections. Minimalistic implementation of the various power projects and the inability to expand and build on its current capacities is evidence of the lack of political vision acting directly against the social and economic interests of the citizens. Absence of effective economic and public policy, inefficient administration of energy, misplaced priorities and the reality of political corruption being the detrimental factors.

 

Doyang Hydro Project

Located in the district of Wokha in the state of Nagaland, Doyang Hydro Project is one of the most popular tourist attractions. People who have visited Doyang Hydro Project, have given positive feedback about the place being beautiful. Birds migrate from north to south when spring approaches and settle down at Doyang Hydro Project area for a little break during their long migratory journey. The project began during the late 1980s and ended in the year 2000. Owing to the locale of the project with the mighty Doyang River flowing, Doyang Hydro Project is a benchmark tourism spot. With many wild animals like monkeys, snakes, etc, living nearby in the forest, this place is a marvellous place to be at with a panoramic view of several villages of Wokha and Mokokchung District.

 

Nagaland:major cities and tourist places

Major cities

Dimapur

Dimapur is the largest city in Nagaland, India. Contrary to popular belief, the city’s formation in Nagaland is separate from that of Assam. In the Middle Ages, it was the capital of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom. In the heart of the town there is an old relic of the Kachari Kingdom which speaks about the once prosperous era. It is located at 25°54′45″N 93°44′30″E and is bounded by Kohima district on the south and east, the Karbi Anglong district of Assam on the west and stretch of Golaghat District of Assam, in the west and the north. The name Dimapur is derived from the Dimasa language]; “Di” means “water”, “ma” means “large” and “pur” (sanskritised word) means “city”, translating to “Big-river-city”, associated with the meaning of “Kachari” which is “people of the river valley” and after the river which flows through it (Dhansari). It is also the gateway to Nagaland and its only railhead. The city also has the only functional airport in the state.

Kohima

Kohima is the hilly capital city of India’s north eastern state of Nagaland. With a resident population of 99,039 it is the second largest city in the state. Originally known as Kewhira, it was founded in 1878 when the British Empire established its headquarters of the then Naga Hills. It officially became the capital after the state of Nagaland was inaugurated in 1963.

Mokokchung

Mokokchung is a town and a municipality in Mokokchung district in the Indian state of Nagaland. It is the district headquarters as well as the main urban hub of Mokokchung district. Mokokchung is the cultural nervecentre of the Ao people and is economically and politically the most important urban centre in northern Nagaland. In fact it is third most important urban hub in all of Nagaland after Dimapur and Kohima. Besides this the Government of Nagaland has also recognised Mokokchung district as ‘Land of Pioneers’ because this place has produced a great number of luminaries in many fields. The town is made up of 16 wards of which Kumlong, Sangtemla, Alempang and Yimyu are the largest. Mokokchung is particularly noted for its extravagant Christmas, New Year, Moatsu and Tsungremong celebrations. Its tradition of celebrating Christmas and New Year midnight celebrations in the main town square is regarded as one of the unique features of Mokokchung. Historically, Mokokchung was one of the first Naga Hills sites where the Assam Rifles, led by Britishers, established their outposts (then called stockades) in the later part of the 19th century. Much of the town initially grew around this post located in the DC Hill. The British administration was then gradually extended eastwards towards the remoter parts of the Naga Hills.

Nagaland:tourist places

Mon

The land of Konyak Nagas, Mon is an interesting land to visit in Nagaland. Famed for warriors with tattoos on face, head hunting prowess and blackened teeth people, Mon is a fascinating place to be in Nagaland. The Konyaks call themselves the descendants of Noah and practice agriculture; it is believed that have the finest harvest in the state. Around Mon, a traveller can have a number of interesting encounters, for instance if you happen to be in Longwa (the biggest village in Mon district), which shares border of Myanmar, you can actually have the opportunity to have half of your body in India and other half in Myanmar. The chief’s house, where the chief resides with his 60 wives, is also a major attraction in Longwa. The large number of trophies made of animals’ skull in the residence is some unforgettable sight. Shangnyu Village and its famed wooden carving, Veda Peak and Chui Village are some of the other attractions in Mon.

Wokha

Wokha is nature’s spectacular gift to Nagaland. Dotted with colourful orchards, carpeted with multi-hued flowers and fringed by hills and river, Wokha is a nature lovers’ paradise. About 4 hours drive from Kohima, this district is the perfect place to bask and see the glory of nature. A tourist village above Riphyim is a major attraction in Wokha district, this place is known to offer splendid views of a dam on Donyan River. The tourist lodge at Riphyim also makes a great place to visit as it renders uncluttered view from the window of its each room. Wokha is the land of Lotha tribe and one has wonderful opportunity here to interact with the tribal people and see their traditional art and craft. Apart from this, Mount Tiyi, Liphanyan Governor’s Camp, Water Pool, Totsu Cliff, Tehurang Valley, Baghty Valley and Vankhosung town are the places that may interest travellers in Wokha. The Lothas celebrate a post-harvest festival called Tokhu Emong Festival in the month of November. It is believed, this 9 days festival is the best period to visit Wokha.

Dzukou Valley

Blessed with absolutely mesmerizing beauty, Dzukou Valley (2438m) is situated at a distance of about 30kms from the state capital, Kohima. Gorgeous Dzukou valley is a trekker’s delight and is reckoned to be the best trekking circuit in the country. Dzukou Valley is to Nagaland is what Valley of Flowers is to Uttarakhand. An unexplored and pristine land replete with a sizeable number of multi-hued flowers, this valley is certainly a must visit place in Nagaland. Offering breathtaking vistas, Dzukou is dotted with many ravines and streams. The best time to visit Dzukou Valley is spring when the entire valley blossoms with flowers and looks heavenly; however, winter is also a good time to be here as at this time of the year one can witness a deserted yet magnificent view of the valley.

Tuophema Village

A tourist village, situated about 41kms away from Kohima, Tuophema is built around ethnic model of tourism. The village offers traditionally styled thatched huts, traditional artefacts, jewelleries, clothing and souvenir museum and authentic Naga delicacies. This place gives an opportunity to soak the colour of Nagas and learn more about the culture of this fascinating land. The Angami Sekrenyi festival celebrated between the 25th and 27th of February each year is a major attraction of this village.

 

 

Khonoma Green Village

Khonoma Green Village is the result of responsible Naga tribes. Situated at a distance of about 20kms from Kohima, Khonoma Green Village is one of its kinds in India. The village is the home of the Angami tribe who have given up hunting and only practice agriculture (jhum or shift agriculture) to make a living. The houses in Khonoma are made using natural means and it is a way of Angami to show concern for the conservation of natural resources. In this green village, baskets are woven and handloom work is carried on along with agriculture. Khonoma is undoubtedly an inspiring place that takes us one step closer to nature and urges us to take initiatives to conserve and protect our natural environment. The energy of this place is something that everyone must experience.

Benreu

An epitome of untouched beauty, Benreu is a village located in Peren district of Nagaland. This beautiful village tucked on a ridge signifies ethnic tourism in Nagaland. Remaining unexplored, this village is a wonderful gateway to a quiet and peaceful holiday amidst immaculate nature. The simple village life and their day-to-day activities are the major attraction here apart from the breathtaking landscape of the place. Benreu can be considered as a cultural paradise that shows many colours of Naga lifestyle and culture.

Tuensang

Tuensang is the eastern-most district of Nagaland and is the homeland of the Chang Nagas. Although, Chang is the predominant tribe here, Tuensang is famed as the place where many tribes live together. This co-existence has resulted in a flavoursome blend of culture and tradition in this district. Tuensang is also popular for its handloom, handicrafts, artworks and jewellery. It is infact one of the best places to go souvenir shopping in Nagaland. Changsangmonko, Chilise, Chunglimiyti and Tsadang Village offer several legends that are quite interesting to hear; these villages also make some of the most interesting places to see in Tuensang.

Transport network of Nagaland

Road Network in Nagaland

The primary mode of communication in Nagaland is road. Airways and railways are still undergoing its stages of development in Nagaland. The road network of Nagaland sums up to 9860 kms in total and thanks to this road network, a total of 900 villages are connected through it. Nagaland is highly dependent on the road network for all of its transport purposes include import and export of goods. National Highway 39 connects Kohima, Imphal and the Myanmar border at Moreh that runs through Dimapur. Kohima, the state capital, could be reached from Dimapur on NH 39.

National Highways

Tipaimukh Road ( Highway 150)

A state highway of Manipur, the Tipaimukh Road was declared a highway in 1999. The highway from Manipur connects to its bordering states as well which are Mizoram and Nagaland with 141 kms and 36 kms each respectively. The total length of the highway is 700 kms and it initiates at6 Seling (NH54) then passes through the route Tipaimukh-Imphal-Ukhrul-Jessami in Manipur and then finally it ends at Kohima in Nagaland.

National Highway 155

This is a highway which runs entirely through the state itself. The distance the road runs for is 342 kms and it connects Mokukchung NH 61 with Jessami NH 150 junction.

National Highway 36

Dimapur and Nagaon is connected to each other via the NH 36 which covers a distance of about 170 kms. The Highway starts at Nagaon in Assam and ends at Dimapur in Nagaland.

National Highway 61 NH 61 is the highway which starts at Nagaland itself and runs into the state of Assam. The length of the Highway is 240 kms. long with a majority of it i.e. 220 kms. of it running within Nagaland itself.

Nagaland State Transport

The Nagaland state transport was set up under the Government of Nagaland to provide to its people an efficient and economic transport facility. When it started in the year 1965, the only means of transport in the state was Nagaland State transport buses. The geographic formation of the state being majorly hills, road transport is a major form of communication for the people here. Today apart from the Nagaland State transport (NST) other private operators have also emerged who provide services with comparably higher rates. The Nagaland State transport presently operates a total of 112 scheduled services daily covering a total of around 21,300 kms.

Nagaland Air Service

Nagaland has only one airport located at Dimapur. The Dimapur Airport is located at NH 39 in the 3rd mile area. The terminal airport can accommodate a total of 500 departing passengers and 300 arriving passengers. Plans are still going on in order to develop and expand the Dimapur Airport. Flights land and leave from the airport on a regular basis. Guwahati and Kolkata have direct flights from the Airport. Air India and Jet Airways are the two flight operators providing flights to and from Dimapur.

Nagaland Railways

The major railhead in Nagaland is Dimapur which is linked to Guwahati, the gateway to the northeastern India. Guwahati is in turn connected to the rest of the country by important trains. The 1676 mm railway track of Dimapur was laid earlier by the Assam Bengal Railways. Initially it was from Chittagong to Lumding which later got extended to Tinsukia in 1903.

 

Horticulture in Nagaland

The total area covered by horticultural crops in the state has been estimated at 42897 ha (2008-09). The fruits grown in the state range from tropical and sub-tropical fruits like banana, papaya, pineapple and citrus to temperate fruits like apple, pear, peach, plum, strawberry and even certain nut fruits. The state has rich diversity of different vegetable crops and both indigenous tropical vegetables and temperate vegetables are grown to a considerable extent. The major vegetables grown in the region are cabbage, cauliflower, tomato, knol-khol, radish, carrot, French bean and different cucurbitaceous crops. Among the flowering plants anthurium, roses, lillium, alstromeria, heliconia, and zantedeschia are introduced in the state. Tuber and rhizomatous crops like sweet potato, colocasia, ginger and turmeric grow abundantly in the state, while plantation crops like cashew nut, black pepper have been introduced recently in the state. Apart from these, underutilized crops like passion fruit, kiwi fruit, chow-chow and others are grown in some areas.

Land Holding and Land Use Pattern

The horticultural practices in state is still primitive and yet to see modernization and mechanization. 38% of the total area cultivated in the State falls under jhum and only 4% falls under permanent and irrigation fields. With the total area of about 16, 57,900 hectares of land, about 80% falls under hilly terrain and only 20% comes under gentle slope and plain area and only 2.59 % of the total area is under horticulture. Due to repeated jhuming of short duration cycle in the hills, the soil is subjected to heavy soil erosion as a result of which the fields are reduced and soil become very poor. Therefore, in order to bring this jhum land into Horticulture Development, it is proposed to bring more area under Area Expansion for Horticultural crops in order to convert the hilly areas into a settled permanent cultivation like fruits, vegetables, flowers, medicinal & aromatic plants.

Decadal growth of horticulture in Nagaland 

The total area under horticultural crops (fruits & vegetables) in the state is around 42.9 thousand hectare, which is around 2.59 % of the total geographical area of the state and it gives a total production of 327.13 thousand tones with a productivity of 7.63 t/ ha. The area under fruits has been increased from 13.6 thousand hectares in 1996-97 to 19.27 thousand hectares during 2008-09 with a production of 168.9 and 191.32 thousand tones respectively. However, the area under vegetables has decreased during the same period. Under Horticulture Technology Mission cultivation of citrus, pineapple, passion fruit and banana through area expansion has been promoted by the Department of Horticulture, Govt. of Nagaland during 2004-10. Besides, mango, litchi, kiwi is focused during 2009- 10. Under integrated development of horticultural crops, The Horticulture Department, Govt. of Nagaland has covered 137 ha of large cardamom, 57 ha of passion fruit, 144 ha of citrus, 57 ha of betel vine, 56 ha of pineapple, 28 ha of cashew, 28 ha of ginger, and 49 ha of kiwifruit. The floriculture is gaining popularity in the state. However, this sector is basically based in urban areas of the state. During 2009-10, anthurium, roses, lillium alstromeria, heliconia, gerbera, and zantedeschia were grown in Hi-tech green houses in 4 districts of the state.

State horticulture nursery

The State Horticulture Nursery initiated series of developmental activities mainly focused on maintenance of accredited nurseries. The Year wise calendars of farm operations were actively executed as per the requirement of the crop under different progeny mother blocks. Besides farm developments and operations, the SHN have conducted several trainings and Farm visits for students and visitors from within and outside the state. Recently, under MIDH (CSS), the first ever Hi-Tech Nursery in the state also known as Semi-Automated Vegetable Seedling Production Unit was successfully installed and inaugurated by Shri. Jalaj Shrivastava (IAS), Additional Secretary, DAC & FW, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Govt. of India. The Hi-Tech production unit has the capacity to produce 70,000 quality seedlings per unit batch which will serve as a boon to the farming community of the district.

Coconut Development Board

Coconut Development Board is a statutory body established by the Government of India for the integrated development of coconut production and utilization in the country with focus on productivity increase and product diversification. The Board functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. The aim of the Coconut Development Board (CDB) is to assist the coconut farmers in coconut production, processing, marketing and export of value-added coconut products.

The foot-hill belts of Nagaland, specially bordering Assam having sub-tropical type of climates with adequate rainfall is ideal for coconut plantation. The survey conducted by the Coconut Development Board, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India had found about 15000 Ha. of land extending from Jalukie Area in Peren district to Tizit Valley area in Mon district suitable for Coconut plantation consisting of seven districts of the state.

Adoptive trials of Coconut plantation in these areas had proved successful. The farmers had also realized the beneficial of coconut plantation which has got high market demand and high cost returns and thus the demands for coconut seedlings are increasing year after year in the state. Under Horticulture Development programme, the Department is keeping a provision for procurement of Coconut seedling, inputs for development of the following district of Dimapur, Peren, Wokha, Mokokchung, Mon, Kohima and Longleng in the foothill area adjacent to Assam. During 2017-18, CDB had sanctioned an amount of Rs. 53.575 lakhs for coconut plantation and development related schemes in seven (7) districts of Nagaland.

Dragon Fruit cultivation

Dragon Fruit is famous in Thailand, Vietnam, Israel and Sri Lanka. In India, commercial cultivation of this fruit is picking up and in Nagaland some farmers and fruit lovers have initiated its cultivation.  The Dream Dragon Fruit Farm at Shitovi village in Dimapur district is the first farm where exotic Dragon Fruit is produced and sold by demand only. Ms. Lucy Ngullie Thomas has been growing Red, White and Yellow Dragon Fruits since 2013 besides other exotic fruits. The 5 hectares Dream Dragon Fruit Farm is well maintained and adopts all technical cultural practices. This is the only dragon fruit farm in the state which has healthy and well maintained Mother Plants of Red and White varieties producing cuttings for sales and propagation. The Dream Dragon Fruit Farm is an Accredited Nursery with 1 Star rating by the accrediting authority under Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH) and the owner is now capable to produce and sell dragon fruit cuttings to interested farmers throughout the country.

Nagaland: Geographical location

Located in the north eastern region of India, the state of Nagaland shares the international border with the country of Myanmar. The state lies between the geographical coordinates of 25°6′ and 27°4′ North latitudes and 93°20′ and 95°15′ East longitude. The state is home to 16 different tribes, each of whom have their distinct customs, attires, languages and dialect.

The state of Nagaland enjoys a salubrious climate. The torrential monsoon rains are an integral feature of the state’s weather. The maximum average temperature recorded in summer is 31 degree Celsius while the minimum is as low as 4 degrees Celsius in winter. Some regions in the state are subject to frost in winters. The state records an average annual rainfall of 2000mm-2500mm.

The state of Nagaland is drained by four chief rivers of Doyang, Jhanji, Dhansiri and Dikhu. The rivers are the tributaries of the mighty Brahmaputra River with their sources in the mountain ranges of the state. 20 percent of the total land area of the state is covered with wooded forest, rich in flora and fauna. The evergreen tropical and the sub tropical forests are found in strategic pockets in the state of Nagaland.

As far as physiographic aspect of Nagaland is concerned, it lies in the Purvanchal region of Indian sub-continent. It is a ranges of eastern Himalayan mountain system that radiating from north to south. Nagaland comprises of Naga Hills and Patkai boom of the purvanchal ranges. As we focus on the whole of Nagaland, the altitude of the landscape is ascending from west to east. The altitude of Mon in the north east of Nagaland is 898m and Dimapur in the southwest is 260m are lower in height compare to Phek in the southeast 1524m and Noklak 1524m,Shamatore 1692m and Saramati 3840m in the extreme east and Wakching 1031m in the northeast of Nagaland. So it shows that the eastern part of Nagaland is comparatively higher in altitude than western part of Nagaland.

 

 

Relief and structure of Nagaland

Nagaland is largely a mountainous state. The Naga Hills rise from the Brahmaputra Valley in Assam to about 610 metres (2,000 ft) and rise further to the southeast, as high as 1,800 metres (6,000 ft). Mount Saramati at an elevation of 3,841.00 metres (12,601.70 ft) is the state’s highest peak; this is where the Naga Hills merge with the Patkai Range in which form the boundary with Burma. Rivers such as the Doyang and Diphu to the north, the Barak river in the southwest, dissect the entire state. 20 percent of the total land area of the state is covered with wooded forest, a haven for flora and fauna. The evergreen tropical and the sub tropical forests are found in strategic pockets in the state.

Topographically, the landscape of Nagaland can be divided into three divisions:

The foothills of the west

These ranges of foothills are characterized by undulating with gentle slopes. The important feature of this area is that, the river valleys of wider area are identified here. The important places with their altitude are Dimapur 260m, Medziphema 305m, Baghty 305m, Changtongya 954m, Mangkolemba 914m, Tuli 315m and Mon 898m. The river valleys of this region are in the rivers of Dhansari, lower course of Doyang, lower course of Milak and Dikhu. This region is ranging from the lowest altitude of 260m in Dimapur to the highest of 954min Changtongya area of Mokokchung district. It lies as the north – south ranges with several ribs of hills from Mon area to Dimapur area. The altitude of this range is ascending from south to north.

The lower range of the middle Nagaland

This range lies from 1000m – 1500m above main sea level which characterized by moderate degree of slopes with intensified ribs of ranges compare to the foothills range. Deepening of river beds with steep sided banks is also another characteristic of this region. Landslides are also important feature of this region and landforms are mostly of youth stage. This region is ascending from north to south in terms of altitude above main sea level. This is being justified as that Wakching area has an altitude of 1031m and Longleng 1067m, in the north, Mokokchung 1326m, Tuensang 1372m and Wokha 1314m in the middle and again raised at Tseminyu 1422m and Kohima area 1444m in the south. So it is found that this region is ascending in altitude from north to south.

High hills and mountainous region

This region runs north-south stretch with bulge of hills in the middle ranging from 1500m and above. The altitude of Noklak 1524m in the north, Longkhim 1672m, Shamator 1692m and Zunheboto 1874m within the middle, saramati 3837m, Phek 1524m, Pfutseru 2134m, Kikruma 1643m and Japfu 3015m in the south and southeastern shows the picture of its physiograpy. The south and southeastern part of this region is comparatively higher in altitude than the northern part of the region. This region is characterized by highly dissected slopes and v shaped valleys of seasonal and perennial streams. The waterfalls and rapids are important feature of this region. The hill top of this region is characterized by the presence of spotted hills on it. The slope degrees of this region are steep and the ribs of ranges are intensified.

 

Fishing in Nagaland

Nagaland is endowed with rich and unique natural resources, which provides immense potential for aquaculture development. In spite of the available resources, aquaculture has not made much impact in the state so far. The meagre production of the state is still far from self-sufficient and this can be attributed to a number of constraints such as land locked hilly terrain, lack of adequate funds, lack of professional support and non-availability of critical inputs.

Of late, there have been certain remarkable changes in the state’s fisheries scenario especially during the last plan periods wherein local farmers are coming forward to take up aquaculture practices. In spite of the constraints, the department is making serious efforts to assist, guide and educate the people about the importance of fisheries development and sustainable fisheries.

Certain villages/communities are taking steps to conserve their river/stream systems by their own customary law, and today we find many rivers/streams being protected under this law. The numbers of fish farmers are increasing year after year and production has increased considerably. The above given accounts goes to prove that in spite of major hurdles and constraints, the department has been able to make sufficient progress in achieving its aims and objectives and also induce the rural mass to take up fish culture practice by whatever technical assistance and guidance the department could provide with limited funds. In this regard, the department can very soon boast of bringing a revolution in fish culture in the state by way of transfer of scientific technology through extension service by fishery personnel.

The potential of fishery resources in the state are immense. The major potential resource attributes to the cold and riverine fisheries. It comprises of game fishes like mahseer, also known as the ‘National fish of India’ and snow trout. Ornamental fish species such as loaches, danio, barillius etc., are also added assets. But unfortunately, this fishery resource of the state is threatened due to indiscriminate and destructive fishing methods like poisoning, dynamiting, bleaching, electric fishing, and use of unregulated mesh size net. This destructive fishing method indiscriminately kills the juveniles and the brooders leading to decline in riverine fish species. Hence serious efforts from all corners should be made to conserve our riverine fishery resources.

The following approaches for conservation of aquatic flora and flora and their ecosystem, are therefore considered.

• Deforestation and overgrazing activities along the sloppy catchments need to be checked immediately.
• Soil and water conservation measures need to be intensified.
• Enforcement of fishery legislation (Indian Fishery Act/Nagaland Fisheries Act) in streams, rivers and lakes to be effectively implemented.
• Specific gear and mesh size need to be regulated to protect the juveniles.
• Observation of closed season during breeding seasons.
• Declaration of breeding and feeding grounds of fishes as reserves/sanctuaries.
• Banning the use of poison, bleaching powder, dynamite and electric for fishing.
• Seed ranching and their protection may be maintained for the declining stocks.
• Mass awareness through extension activities and voluntary agencies about the need for conservation of fish stocks and their ecosystem.

Schemes and projects

Some of the ongoing projects are as follows:

• Ornamental fish rearing and breeding.
• Reservoir and lake fisheries.
• Riverine fisheries.
• Fish farm construction and up gradation.
• Strengthening of Database and Information Networking for Fishery sector. (Fishery Statistics)

Besides Fisheries department of the state, the agencies undertaking fisheries activities in the state are: Ministry of Agriculture (Govt. of India), North Eastern Council, Indian Council of Agricultural Research. In addition agencies like National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), National Co-operative Development Corporation (NCDC) have contributed to some extend in the process through providing fund.

Development of fresh water aquaculture through FFDA

Under this scheme, assistance is provided to fish farmers through various incentives/facilities like new pond/ponds construction, renovations etc. in order to promote intensive aquaculture. There are 8 (eight) FFDA units in the state at present, which was sanctioned by the Govt. of India one each for each district.

Fisheries Extension and Training

This scheme is shared on 80:20 basis between Central and State Govt. on capital expenditure. Under the scheme, funds are provided for establishment of training centres, training of fisheries personnel, production of video films, publication of manuals and conduct of meeting/workshop/seminar.

Awareness Programme

Under this scheme, the central Govt. has provided 80% of their share for construction of one museum-cum-laboratory amounting to Rs.18.83 lakh during 1999-2000 and 2000-01. Now, the Department has a well-equipped laboratory cum Awareness center at Dimapur which all houses exotic aquarium fishes.

National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen

This was undertaken by the department during 1999-2000 for construction of houses for the fishermen, community hall, ring well etc. The expenditure is shared on 50:50 basis between Central and State Govt. During 1999-2000 and 2000-01 a sum of Rs.43.75 lakh was spent for construction of 40 houses, 2 community halls and 5 ring wells.

Strengthening of Infrastructure of Inland Fish Marketing

This is a 100% central grant scheme provided for construction of cold Storage and purchase of insulated van. This scheme was sanctioned by the Government of India during 1988-89, 1989-90. The Government of India sanctioned a sum of Rs.43.00 lakh and the cold storage has been completed. The scheme is discontinued from 9th Plan.

Industrial development in Nagaland

The development industry in Nagaland has provided an impetus to the economic growth of this north eastern state of India. The proliferation of large scale and medium scale industries has helped to raise the standard of living of the local inhabitants of Nagaland.

Between 2011-12 and 2016-17, Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) expanded at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.61 per cent to US$ 3.28 billion whereas the Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) expanded at a CAGR of 8.94 per cent to US$ 2.90 billion between 2005-06 and 2015-16. Agriculture accounts for a significant share in Nagaland’s economy. It contributed 28.42 per cent to the state’s total GSDP during 2016-17. Around 72 per cent of the population is engaged in the agriculture sector.

As of January 2018, Nagaland had total installed power generation capacity of 154.87 MW, of which 123.70 MW was under central sector and 30.67 MW was under state utilities. Of the total installed power generation capacity, 70.33 MW was contributed by thermal, 53.37 MW by hydro and 31.17 MW by renewable energy. As of August 2017, all villages in the state had electricity supply.

The state has considerable resources of natural minerals, petroleum and hydropower. Nagaland has around 600 million metric tonnes (MT) of crude oil and more than 20 million tonnes (MT) of hydrocarbon reserves, which are unexploited. Moreover, the state has 315 MT of coal reserves and 1,038 MT of limestone reserves. Nagaland’s estimated hydropower generation potential is 1,574 megawatt (MW), while the installed capacity is 53.37 MW as of January 2018, presenting huge investment opportunities.

Promoted by NIDC, the Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) at Dimapur has received formal approval as a special economic zone (SEZ) for agro and food processing. A proposed multi-product SEZ spread across 400 hectares in Dimapur has received formal approval.

The following are some of the major initiatives taken by the government to promote Nagaland as an investment destination:

• In 2017-18 state budget, US$ 61.99 million was allocated by the state government for the development of roads and bridges in Nagaland.
• During the 2017-18 budget, the government proposed to allocate US$ 95.76 million for medical and public health in the state.
• In April 2017, the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) has approved the State Annual Action Plans (SAAPs) for Nagaland for the period of 2017 – 2020. The plans are estimated to cost around US$ 6.69 million under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT).
• The state provides institutional support through various central and state government agencies viz., North East Council, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region and Nagaland Industrial Development Council.
• Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has included 12 villages in Nagaland under the rural tourism scheme in order to promote traditional rural art, craft, textile and culture.
• The state has established various Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) industrial clusters, mainly in Kohima, Wokha and Mokokchung districts.
• The state government has proposed an outlay of around US$ 88.92 million for agriculture and allied sectors development during the state budget 2017-18.
• To exploit the huge potential of hydropower generation in the villages, the New and Renewable Energy Department of the Government of Nagaland has identified 21 feasible sites for hydro projects at the micro and mini levels.
• An Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) has been developed in Ganeshnagar near Dimapur. It has supporting infrastructure such as water supply systems, banks, post offices, police stations, etc.

 

Power resources in Nagaland

Coal

Nagaland is blessed with rich natural resources. Of these, coal is one such resource which can uplift the economy of the local people and Nagaland State in general if utilized properly.     Coal deposits are distributed in eight districts of the State.

The most practiced coal mining method in Nagaland is rat-hole mining. In districts like Mon and Longleng, open cast mining is actively practiced too. As of now, the current picture of coal mining (both abandoned sites and ongoing mining activities) in the State is not a pleasant sight as it is done without any proper planning leading to wastage of coal reserves and causing hazards such a landslide and subsidence in many areas.

The first coalfield in Nagaland was founded in 1907 by the East India Company and is at Borjan and Kongan soil near Naganimora. Naganimora is biggest trading center of Nagaland Coal. The local weekly market held on Saturdays witnesses a medley crowd of Assamese and Konyak Nagas.

Hydro electricity

Doyang river had been a popular destination with the tourists visiting Wokha, but in the recent years, the Doyang Hydro Project has become one of the biggest tourist attractions for people visiting the town of Wokha. The 75 MW hydro power project, which is being constructed over the Doyang River has become famous for some of the breathtaking views that it offers. This dam and reservoir is located 38 km from the town of Wokha and offers an exciting scenic tour. You can easily get sight of the dam from the hilltop of some villages of Wokha. If you feel the rush of adrenaline in your system this can be one of the most adventurous places of visit. You can trek to the reservoir from the hill top through some dense forest cover. On the way you will catch a glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna of this place.