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Hindustan Times
29 minutes ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Nagaland govt to set up commission for reviewing reservation policy: Tribal group
Kohima, The Nagaland government on Tuesday agreed in principle to set up a commission within 15 days to examine the core demands of five tribes concerning the state's reservation policy. This was stated by CORRP, a panel comprising representatives of five major tribes of Nagaland. Its members held a meeting convened by Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton during the day over their demand for a review of the state's reservation policy. Patton told reporters after the meeting that the state Cabinet would discuss the matter later this month. Tesinlo Semy, Convenor of the Committee on Review of Reservation Policy , told reporters that the discussions were 'fruitful' and that the government has assured them that a commission would be formed by June 17. 'The commission will examine the core demands of the five tribes and submit its recommendations to the government. The cabinet will then take a decision,' Semy said. While no date was fixed for the next meeting, he said that the CORRP would meet with the government again after 15 days. Asked about the composition and leadership of the Commission, Semy said the decision rests with the Cabinet. The five major Naga tribes of Nagaland held coordinated protest rallies in various districts on May 29, demanding a review of the state's long-standing job reservation policy. The coordinated action was led under the banner of the CORRP, an organisation formed in 2023 as mandated by the apex tribal organisations of the five tribes – Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma and Sumi. They had submitted an 'Ultimatum Reminder', citing the Nagaland government's alleged failure to respond to two key communications: a memorandum dated September 20, 2024, and a 30-day ultimatum served on April 26, 2025. Their primary concerns revolve around the indefinite nature of the current reservation system, originally intended for a 10-year term starting in 1977, and the demand for either its abolition or the exclusive reservation of the remaining unreserved communities. Initially, a 25 per cent quota was allocated for seven tribes in non-technical and non-gazetted posts for 10 years. These tribes were designated as 'backward' based on their educational and economic disadvantage and limited representation in state services. This reservation has since increased to 37 per cent, officials said. Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton told reporters that the tribal bodies had initially called for either scrapping the existing Backward Reservation policy or allocating the remaining quota to the five tribes. 'After prolonged deliberation, they requested that instead of a mere committee, a bi-parliamentary commission be formed,' Patton said. He added that the government has asked the tribal bodies for time until June 17 to allow the Cabinet to deliberate on the matter. 'We are thankful to the five tribal bodies for agreeing to this timeline and for deciding to keep their agitation in abeyance until then,' he said. Asserting that the cabinet is expected to hold a meeting within the stipulated period to decide on setting up the proposed commission, Patton said that tribal leaders would be informed of the cabinet's decision, and further meetings would be held if necessary. Following the assurance of the government, the CORRP has kept on hold its proposed agitation.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Five tribes rally against job quota policy in Nagaland
Dimapur: Hundreds of people from five Naga tribes – Sumi, Ao, Lotha, Angami, and Rengma – under the banner of the 5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy (CoRRP), took out rallies in five district headquarters of Nagaland on Thursday against the state govt's alleged inaction on their demands to review the Nagaland job reservation policy. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Defying the inclement weather, protesters gathered in Dimapur, Kohima, Mokokchung, Tseminyu and Wokha, demanding either a complete scrapping of the 48-year-old indefinite job quota for seven backward tribes, introduced in 1977 for an initial period of 10 years, or the exclusive reservation of the remaining unreserved quota for their five tribes. In Dimapur, a large number of protesters, both young and old, convened at the DC court junction, before marching to the deputy commissioner's office to submit a memorandum. Leaders of the three tribe organizations, who were present, affirmed their unwavering commitment to continue the agitation until their demands were met. They announced their plan for the second phase of the stir, which will be a peaceful sit-in (dharna) outside the Nagaland Civil Secretariat starting June 2nd. This will be followed by a total shutdown in all districts inhabited by the five tribes, commencing on June protesters then proceeded to the DC office to submit an "ultimatum reminder" to the state government. The memorandum, addressed to the chief secretary, reiterated that the 5 CoRRP, representing the apex bodies of the five tribes – Angami Public Organisation, Ao Senden, Lotha Hoho, Rengma Hoho, and Sumi Hoho – had previously submitted a memorandum to CM Neiphiu Rio on September 20, 2024, followed by a 30-day ultimatum on April 26, 2025, to address their demands. The memo expressed disappointment that the state govt's response, conveyed through a letter from the home commissioner dated May 25, 2025, had failed to address the core concerns and issues raised in their initial memorandum. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The 5 CoRRP stated that they were resorting to democratic agitation through public protest rallies in all districts inhabited by the five tribes and submitting an ultimatum reminder regarding their "legitimate demands." The committee further declared their intention to intensify the agitation in various forms until their grievances are adequately addressed.
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Rallies held in Nagaland over delay in review of job reservation policy
Kohima: Five major Naga tribes took out rallies across eight districts in Nagaland on Thursday against the state government's inaction to review the 50 years-old job reservation policy for seven backward tribes. The five tribes --- Angami, Ao, Lotha, Sumi and Rengma --- organised rallies in the capital Kohima, Mokokchung, Wokha, Zunheboto, Tseminyu, Chümoukedima, Niuland and the state's commercial hub Dimapur. The committee of five tribes has demanded a comprehensive review and reformation to the Nagaland job Reservation Policy for Backward Tribes to ensure that all tribes get fair opportunities in the government sector. The state government has convened a meeting with the representatives of the five aggrieved tribal bodies and their joint committee members on June 3. 'We welcome the invitation by the state government and hope that core issues raised by us will be addressed,' secretary of the committee GK Zhimomi said. Earlier this month, the Nagaland government said that it could not proceed with a review of the job reservation policy without accurate and up-to-date population data, emphasising that any such move must be based on the national census figures. The Nagaland job reservation policy for backward tribes (BTs) was introduced in 1977, reserving 25% of the total vacancies in non-technical and non-gazetted posts reserved for 'seven BTs deemed to be educationally and economically very backward' and having minimal representation in public services. This reservation was initially intended to last for 10 years. However, in 1987, the policy was not reviewed, and in 1989, the state government issued an order stating that the policy would continue until further notice. Over the years, the policy remained in place but both the number of BTs and the reservation quota increased. Currently, job reservations for BTs in the government sector stand at 37%—with 25% allocated to the seven tribes of the eastern Nagaland bloc and 12% to four other backward tribes. The committee has expressed the view that maintaining an indefinite reservation system without proper review poses a serious risk of economic imbalance and discrimination among the Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Nagaland, potentially leading to greater inequality. The committee submitted a representation to the Neiphiu Rio-led state government in September 2024, demanding either the scrapping of the quota policy or the reservation of the remaining unreserved quota exclusively for the five non-BT tribes, which constitute nearly 55% of the ST population in Nagaland. This, they argued, would ensure fair opportunities for all tribes and uphold the principles of meritocracy and equality. The committee noted that recommendations from various committees —set up by the state government itself to review the policy—have largely been kept 'in cold storage,' with only some piecemeal implementation. It said that core issues such as the duration of reservation, internal reservations, discrimination stemming from multiple benefits and flexible options for BTs, the concept of a creamy layer, discrepancies in entry age, and backlog of reserved posts have remained unaddressed, despite repeated reminders from non-BT tribal bodies. The five-tribe panel issued a 30-day ultimatum on April 26, which expired reportedly without any response from the state government. 'This public protest rally is organised to express our resentment against state government's indifferent attitude to our genuine demand for review of job reservation policy. While reservation policy is a constitutional act, it needs to be reviewed from time to time. Certain percentage of reservation for backward tribes is legitimate, but reservation for each backward tribe is demeaning the merit of deserving candidates,' Angami Public Organisation in Kohima vice-president Vikehielie Victor said. An ultimatum was sent to the chief secretary through the district deputy commissioners, stating that the five tribes' bodies plan to intensify their phase-wise agitation in various forms until the state government addresses their grievances.
NDTV
7 days ago
- NDTV
8 Tribal Crafts From Northeast India That Are Deeply Rooted In Culture & History
India's Northeast isn't just geographically remote — it's also culturally rich in a way that feels untouched by the rush of the modern world. Home to more than 200 tribes, the region's crafts are as diverse as its landscapes, and every weave, pot, or painting is grounded in daily life, ritual, and ancestry. These are crafts with a point of view. Whether it's a bold Naga shawl that once signified warrior status or a bamboo basket woven for practical farming needs, the handmade treasures of the Northeast offer a window into the cultural heartbeat of the region. Here's a look at some of the most iconic tribal crafts from Northeast India, sorted by state, that you'll want to know about. Here Are 8 Noteworthy Tribal Crafts From Northeast India: 1. Naga Shawls — Nagaland A Naga shawl isn't just clothing — it's an identity marker. Traditionally, the colours and motifs on these shawls reflect tribal affiliations, gender, and even social status. The Tsungkotepsu shawl of the Ao tribe, once exclusive to warriors, features fierce symbols like spears and buffalo horns. Woven on backstrap looms using wool or cotton, these textiles are now being integrated into modern fashion. But the meanings remain: Each line and motif is still tied to centuries of tradition. 2. Bamboo And Cane Craft — Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, And Manipur Used in everything from tools to furniture, bamboo and cane are the lifeblood of utilitarian craft in the Northeast. In Tripura, Riang artisans create finely detailed cane stools and trays, while in Assam, bamboo is used for everything from household baskets to the decorative yet functional Japi hat. Manipur and Mizoram continue to produce an impressive array of woven goods, often combining traditional technique with clean, modern design-making them a hit among eco-conscious consumers. 3. Phanek And Innaphi Textiles — Manipur Worn by Meitei women, the Phanek is a woven skirt, typically paired with a sheer stole called the Innaphi. These textiles are handwoven using traditional techniques, often passed down through generations within families. Each colour and design carries meaning-red symbolises strength, while white denotes purity. The fabrics are worn for everything from daily wear to religious ceremonies, and their quiet elegance is winning over global design houses. 4. Eri And Muga Silk — Assam Assam is world-famous for two unique types of silk: Muga and Eri. Muga silk, with its natural golden hue, is exclusive to Assam and is known for its durability and sheen. It was once reserved for royalty and remains a marker of prestige. Eri silk, often called the 'peace silk', is produced without killing the silkworm, making it a favourite in sustainable fashion circles. Soft, breathable, and ethically made, Eri is commonly used in shawls and scarves, often dyed with natural pigments. 5. Black Pottery — Manipur The village of Andro in Manipur is home to a rare form of black pottery made without a potter's wheel. Instead, the clay is beaten and moulded by hand, then fired in an open flame, giving it its distinctive black sheen. Used traditionally for cooking and storage, these pots are made from a mix of serpentine stone and weathered rock. The all-black aesthetic has recently caught the eye of interior designers and collectors who love its raw, minimal vibe. 6. Wood Carving And Bead Jewellery — Arunachal Pradesh In Arunachal Pradesh, traditional crafts lean heavily on nature. The Monpa tribe carves wooden altars and ritual masks used in Buddhist ceremonies. The Apatani and Nyishi communities create elaborate bead jewellery, often incorporating bones, feathers, and seeds. These items aren't decorative in the conventional sense — they're ceremonial and symbolic, tied to rites of passage and tribal pride. 7. Thangka Paintings — Arunachal Pradesh & Sikkim Though more widely associated with Tibetan Buddhism, Thangka paintings are also deeply rooted in Arunachal Pradesh (especially among the Monpa) and parts of Sikkim. These paintings are done on cotton or silk and depict Buddhist deities, mandalas, or life events of the Buddha. Highly detailed and spiritually significant, Thangkas require years of training to perfect. They're not just visual — they're devotional tools meant for meditation and prayer. In recent years, some are being adapted as wall art for global homes, but traditionally they're rolled and stored when not in use, like a scroll. 8. Puan Textiles — Mizoram The Puan is more than a traditional garment — it's a symbol of Mizo identity. Handwoven with bold stripes, checks, and geometric motifs, it's worn during ceremonies, festivals, and formal events. Today, designers in Mizoram are incorporating Puan patterns into contemporary silhouettes — think bags, jackets, and even shoes — without losing the integrity of the original motifs.
The Hindu
25-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Nagaland group announces stir against job quota for backward tribes
An organisation of five 'advanced' tribes in Nagaland has announced a movement against the State government's failure to respond to its 30-day deadline to review its job reservation policy for backward tribes. On April 26, the Five Tribes Committee Review of Reservation Policy served the ultimatum to the Neiphiu Rio-led government, demanding immediate revision of the job quota for the State's backward tribes. The deadline expires on May 25. The five tribes are Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi. The committee represents their respective apex bodies — the Angami Public Organisation, Ao Senden, Lotha Hoho, Rengma Hoho, and Sumi Hoho. After a consultative meeting with these five apex bodies and other community-based organisations at Chumoukedima on Saturday (May 24, 2025), the committee decided to protest the government's silence on the matter peacefully and in phases. 'Our core demand is to either scrap the reservation policy altogether or allocate the remaining unreserved quota to the five tribes,' the committee's secretary, G.K. Zhimomi, said. He said the committee was not against any tribe benefiting from the reservation policy. 'A review of this 48-year-old policy is long overdue because of the vastly different scenario now,' he added. Mr. Zhimomi said the government failed to review the policy in 1987 and issued an order in 1989, stating that the reservation would continue until further notice. The committee's 30-day ultimatum was a follow-up of the memorandum it submitted to the State government on September 20, 2024, requesting a review of the job quota policy. Meanwhile, the student bodies of three communities recognised as Backward Tribes (BTs) have opposed the five-tribe committee's demand, insisting that diluting the current policy would affect the marginalised communities. These bodies are the Chakhesang Students' Union, Zeliang Students' Union, and Pochury Students' Union. The three unions said the reservation policy 'has been a cornerstone for addressing socio-economic inequalities' faced by the BTs, and diluting or scrapping it would deprive the beneficiary communities of job opportunities. In August 2024, Chief Minister Rio told the 60-member Nagaland Assembly that the reservation for the BTs began in 1977 and 37% of the non-technical and non-gazetted jobs are currently reserved for them. The quota is divided into 25% for seven Eastern Nagaland BTs and 12% for four other BTs.
