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Meghalaya: The Abode of Clouds
Wikipedia Article: Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a state in northeast India. Meghalaya was formed on 21 January 1972 by carving out two districts from the state of Assam: the United Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills and the Garo Hills. The state is bound to the south by the Bangladeshi divisions of Mymensingh and Sylhet, to the west by the Bangladeshi division of Rangpur, and to the north and east by India's State of Assam. The capital of Meghalaya is Shillong. During the British rule of India, the British authorities nicknamed it the "Scotland of the East". English is the official language of Meghalaya. Unlike many Indian states, Meghalaya has historically followed a matrilineal system where the lineage and inheritance are traced through women; the youngest daughter inherits all wealth and she also takes care of her parents. The state is the wettest region of India, with the wettest areas in the southern Khasi Hills recording an average of 12,000mm of rain a year. About 70 per cent of the state is forested. The Meghalaya subtropical forests ecoregion encompasses the state; its mountain forests are distinct from the lowland tropical forests to the north and south. The forests are notable for their biodiversity of mammals, birds, and plants. (Wikipedia)
History
Meghalaya's history traces back to the Neolithic period, with archaeological sites in the Khasi and Garo Hills indicating early human settlements. The Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes had their own kingdoms until they came under British administration in the 19th century. The region was incorporated into Assam in 1835 and enjoyed semi-independent status under British rule. Post-independence, a movement for a separate hill state led to the formation of Meghalaya on 21 January 1972, comprising the United Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills districts carved out from Assam.
Culture
Meghalaya's culture is rich and diverse, with the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes each having distinct traditions. The state is known for its matrilineal society, where lineage and inheritance are traced through women. Traditional festivals like Shad Suk Mynsiem (Khasi), Wangala (Garo), and Behdeinkhlam (Jaintia) are celebrated with fervor. Music and dance are integral, with traditional instruments accompanying folk dances.
Major Cities
- Shillong: The capital city, known as the "Scotland of the East," is a cultural hub with colonial architecture and vibrant markets.
- Tura: Located in the Garo Hills, it's the second-largest city and an administrative center.
- Jowai: Situated in the Jaintia Hills, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
Temples and Palaces
- Nartiang Durga Temple: A significant Hindu temple in the Jaintia Hills, considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.
- Smit Palace: The traditional seat of the Hima Khyrim, showcasing Khasi architecture.
Geography
Meghalaya is a mountainous state with stretches of valley and highland plateaus. The elevation ranges from 150 m to 1,961 m, with Shillong Peak being the highest point. The state is geologically rich, containing deposits of coal, limestone, uranium, and sillimanite. Meghalaya is also the wettest region of India, with areas like Mawsynram and Cherrapunji receiving average annual rainfall of 12,000 mm.
People and Ethnicity
The majority of Meghalaya's population comprises tribal communities: the Khasis, Garos, and Jaintias. These groups have distinct languages, customs, and traditions. The state follows a matrilineal system, especially among the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. Other communities include Bengalis, Nepalis, and Assamese.
Cuisine
Meghalaya's cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Popular dishes include Jadoh (rice with meat), Dohneiiong (pork with black sesame), and Nakham Bitchi (a spicy soup made with dried fish). Rice is a staple, accompanied by meat and vegetables. Fermented foods and bamboo shoots are commonly used.
Healthcare
Healthcare facilities in Meghalaya are concentrated in urban areas like Shillong and Tura, with hospitals and clinics providing medical services. However, rural regions often face challenges in accessing quality healthcare. The state government is working to improve healthcare infrastructure and services across the state.
Religions
Christianity is the predominant religion in Meghalaya, practiced by about 75% of the population, with Catholics, Presbyterians, Baptists, and Church of God being common denominations. Hinduism is the largest religious minority, followed by indigenous faiths like Niamtre, Niam Khasi, and Songsarek. Islam is practiced by a smaller percentage of the population.
Tourism
Meghalaya offers a range of tourist attractions:
- Living Root Bridges: Ingenious bio-engineered structures found in Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong.
- Nohkalikai Falls: India's tallest plunge waterfall near Cherrapunji.
- Umiam Lake: A scenic reservoir near Shillong, popular for water sports.
- Mawsmai Caves: Limestone caves near Cherrapunji open to tourists.
- Balpakram National Park: A biodiversity hotspot in the Garo Hills.
Politics and Government
Meghalaya has a unicameral legislative assembly with 60 seats. The state has two representatives in the Lok Sabha and one in the Rajya Sabha. The Governor is C. H. Vijayashankar, and the Chief Minister is Conrad Sangma of the National People's Party (NPP). The state has its own High Court, established in 2013.
Transportation
- Roads: Meghalaya has about 1,170 km of national highways, connecting major towns and facilitating trade with Bangladesh.
- Airports: Shillong Airport at Umroi offers flights to major cities.
- Rail Services: Meghalaya's rail connectivity is limited, with the nearest major station in Guwahati, Assam.
- Bridges: Numerous bridges span the state's rivers and gorges, enhancing connectivity.
Education System
Meghalaya has several educational institutions, including the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong. The state emphasizes education, with efforts to improve literacy rates and educational infrastructure.
Dams and Agriculture
Agriculture is a primary occupation in Meghalaya, with rice, maize, potatoes, and various fruits being major crops. The Umiam Dam near Shillong is a significant hydroelectric project, providing power and supporting irrigation.
Industries
- Agriculture: The backbone of the state's economy, with a focus on horticulture and organic farming.
- Handicrafts: Traditional weaving, cane and bamboo products are prominent.
- Tourism: A growing sector, leveraging the state's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Mining: Coal and limestone mining are significant, though environmental concerns are prompting shifts towards sustainable practices.
Meghalaya, with its rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty, holds immense potential for development. Efforts are ongoing to harness its resources sustainably and improve the quality of life for its residents.
