Tribes in News

Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes: Backdrop of Ethnic Conflict in Manipur

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes

Mains level: NA

Why in the news?

Manipur CM took it to social media where he alleged an “unnatural growth” in the population of the “Chin-Kuki-Zo” tribes in the state, posing a perceived threat to indigenous communities and national security.

About Chin-Kuki-Zo Tribes

Chin Tribe Kuki Tribe Zo Tribe
Ethnic Composition Major ethnic group in Myanmar’s Chin State; known for distinct customs and language. Heterogeneous group in Northeast India; recognized for diverse subtribes. Diverse ethnic group in Northeast India, Myanmar, and parts of Bangladesh.
Geographical Distribution Primarily in Myanmar’s Chin State; significant populations in Indian states like Mizoram. Mainly in Northeast India; also found in Chin State, Myanmar. Inhabits Northeast India, particularly Mizoram and Manipur; also in parts of Myanmar and Bangladesh.
Language Chin language, part of Kuki-Chin subgroup of Tibeto-Burman family. Kuki-Chin languages; various dialects with distinct variations. Mizo-Kuki-Chin languages; different dialects within Tibeto-Burman family.
Culture and Traditions Vibrant music, dance, festivals; celebrates Chin National Day. Rich oral traditions, folk music; celebrates festivals like Chavang Kut. Rich oral literature, vibrant festivals; celebrates Chapchar Kut and Mim Kut.
Livelihood Historically practiced subsistence agriculture; now diversified livelihoods. Historically practiced shifting (Jhum) cultivation; now engaged in various occupations. Historically practiced shifting (Jhum) cultivation; now diverse livelihood patterns.
Religion Predominantly Christianity with some traditional animistic beliefs. Predominantly Christianity with traditional animistic practices. Predominantly Christianity with remnants of traditional beliefs.
Socio-Political Organization Advocates for cultural identity and rights; e.g., Chin National Front. Promotes Kuki identity; active organizations like Kuki National Organization. Promotes Zo identity; e.g., Zomi Council and Mizo Zirlai Pawl.

Issues with their migration

The Chin-Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur are contributing to the conflict in the state due to various factors.

  • There have been longstanding demands from various tribal groups for greater recognition of their ethnic identity and autonomy within Manipur.
  • Land ownership and control are significant issues among the Chin-Kuki-Zo tribes in Manipur.
[2016]  Consider the following pairs: (2016)

Community sometimes  mentioned in the news In the affairs of
1. Kurd Bangladesh
2. Madhesi Nepal
3. Rohingya Myanmar

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 only

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