The north-eastern part of India—Assam—is characterized by an eclectic mix of cultures, languages, and traditions and amazing natural beauty. This region of the country has a distinct identity from the rest of India. The land is characterized by broad valleys, rolling hills, and low mountains giving it a picturesque and varied landscape.
Assam and, for that matter, the whole of Northeast India is characterized by rice cultivation, which occupies more than 85% of the total cultivated area. The traditional method of cultivation, locally known as “Jhuming” or “Slash and Burn,” is commonly practiced. Assam is one of the more developed states of this relatively isolated region.
In Northeast India, there is a close ethnic and cultural affinity with the neighbouring countries of Tibet, Bhutan, and Myanmar. In fact, the region boasts of possessing what could arguably be called the northernmost tropical rainforests in the world. These forests support an incredible variety of plant species, with nearly 50% of the 17,500 flowering plants of India being found in this region and 40% of them are endemic to the region. The wild varieties of some of the economically important plants like citrus, banana, rice, sugarcane, and pulses are all indigenous to this region.
The cultivation of tea, coffee, and rubber introduced to Assam, West Bengal, and Tripura during the mid-19th century significantly altered the economy and agriculture of this region.
Meghalaya, as one of the states in Northeast India, is known for its beautiful landscapes and hence called the “abode of clouds.” It offers tourists a varied range of attractions—from beautiful landscapes and scenic vistas to unique cultural experiences, local cuisines, and vibrant festivals.
Located geographically close to the Tropics, Northeast India has a tropical climate, particularly in the valleys, with a monsoon pattern. Heavy rainfall is confined to the summer months of June to September, which supports the lush green vegetation and accounts for the rich biodiversity of the region.
North East India is an absolute treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and agricultural richness, epitomized through its unique blend of traditions, languages, and breath-taking landscapes.
(The article is solely the opinion of the author. The views expressed here are solely personal and not in any way connected to any organisation or any political party.)
