NOCTE
Location:
Tirap District
General Information:
They migrated from Myanmar (Burma) across Patkoi Hills
and inhabit in the Khonsa, Namsang and Laju circles of
the Tirap district. Their villages are thickly populated.
Chieftainship is prevalent among them. Till 1945 they were
known for very skilled head hunters. It is a custom of men
to shave the front part of their head and making a thick tuft
of hair at back. They have tattooed their body considered it
as symbol of bravery and victory.
Agriculture is their mainstay of life and they practice Jhum
cultivation. Millet and maize are their staple food, Paddy,
maize and millet are the main crops. Their food includes various
meat, fish and vegetables. Those who have embraced Vaishnavism
generally do not eat beef.
They also believe in the existence of a supreme being and host
of smaller deities and spirits. Chalo-Loku is one of their main
festivals. Also celebrate Ranglo festival on a community basis
in the month of July or August. Generally, they dispose the dead
by exposure on open platform but in case of accidental death,
the dead body is cremated.
The menfolk are expert in cane, bamboo and wooden crafts.
Pottery making is mainly the craft of old women. Their trade
is involved with mainly salt which was obtained from their locality.
Now-a-days, they earn substantial amount of money by selling betelleaves.