The Socio-economic life of the Nyishis’ of Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

Nyishi is the single largest tribe of Arunachal Pradesh spreading in six districts namely Papumpare, Lower Subansiri, East Kameng, Kurung Kumey, Kra Daadi and Upper Subansiri district. Traditionally socio-economic status of the Nyishis’ is determined by the numbers of mithun (Bos frontalis) and ornaments possessed. Social and religious practices of the Nyishi were unorganised and unwritten earlier. On other hand many social evil practises like Tapiaparnam, Sacrifice to evil spirit, child marriage, polygamy, clan-war, revenge system, fine system etc were prevalent. Social system of the Nyishis include living pattern, marriage system, judiciary system, food habits, religious life or faith and belief, dress and ornaments and dressing pattern, discipline or behaviour of people etc. And economic life of the Nyishis rely on agriculture, forest, river resources, fish, meat and vegetable vendor, livestock, barter system, hunting and fishing, arts & crafts and handloom etc. And there is no regulatory framework to monitor the price fixation in the commercial or business activities.