Communities of North-East India: An Anthropological Perspective

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This volume contains papers presented in the National Seminar on Anthropology and Community' that was held in the Department of Anthropology. Dibrugarh University, on 12th and 13th November, 1992. The Seminar was sponsored by Dibrugarh University.

The north-eastern part of this sub-continent has always been a place of mystique and interest for anthropologists and scholars of allied disciplines. It offers many virgin areas that are yet to be explored and as such this region is often described as the paradise for anthropologists. The main centre of attraction is its people who have migrated to this part of India through different routes and at different times. The heterogeneous population of this area is composed of diverse biological, cultural and linguistic heritages. The rich cultures of these communities add colours to the uniqueness of the place. As per Anthropological Survey of India Report 1992, there are about 250 identifiable communities in North-East India. So this region attracts the attention of many social scientists, ethnologists, linguists, travellers and missionaries. Till recently people with different ethnic affiliations were living here in considerable harmony but the situation is gradually changing for various reasons.

The discipline of anthropology studies man covering its bio- logical and cultural dimensions. Anthropology, since its beginning, has been concerned with the affairs of human community. Initially anthropology as a discipline centred around the study of primitive societies but the subject has passed through many stages. There is gradual development in anthropological stud- ies. In the contemporary time anthropology practically studies every human society, their life style and bio-cultural problems. North-East India with its rich culture and heritage always draws attention of the anthropologists.