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{{Short description|State in northeastern India}} {{Short description|State in northeastern India}}
{{Redirect|Ôxôm|other uses|Assam (disambiguation)}} {{Other uses|Assam (disambiguation)}}
{{pp-pc}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2022}} {{Use Indian English|date=September 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2024}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox Indian state or territory
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->
| name = Assam | name = Assam
| official_name = State of Assam
| type = ]
| type = State
| image_seal = File:Seal of Assam.svg
| image_seal = Seal of Assam.svg
| image_skyline = {{Photomontage
| image_skyline = {{multiple image
| photo4a = Bogibeel Bridge view.jpg
| border = infobox
| photo2a = Ahom Raja's Palace, Garhgaon, Sivasagar, Assam 08.jpg
| total_width = 300
| photo2b = Kamakhya Guwahati.JPG
| image_style =
| photo3a = Rang Ghar Assam.jpg
| perrow = 1/2/2/2/1
| photo3b = Academic complex iitg.jpeg
| photo1a = Greater one-horned rhinoceros.jpg | image1 = Kamakhya Temple - DEV 8829.jpg
| caption1 = ]
| position = centre
| image2 = Gargaon'r Kareng Ghor.JPG
| color_border = white
| caption2 = ] in ]
| color = white
| image3 = Rangghar Assam.JPG
| size = 260
| caption3 = ]
| foot_montage = From top, left to right: ] in ], ], ], ], ], ]
| image4 = MANAS NATIONAL PARK.jpg
| caption4 = ]s in ]
| image5 = Majuli Island.jpg
| caption5 = ]
| image6 = Extra Zoomed Snap of Indian Rhino from Assam's Kaziranga National Park.jpg
| caption6 = ] in ]
| image7 = Gates to Greenery.jpg
| caption7 = ] ]
}} }}
| etymology = "A-ham" (Uneven) or from "Ahom"
| seal_alt = Seal of Assam
| nickname = "Land of red river and blue hills"
| image_map = IN-AS.svg
| motto = Joi Aai Axom <br/>(Hail Mother Assam)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://assam.gov.in/about-us/389 |title=State Symbols &#124; Assam State Portal |publisher=Assam.gov.in |date=1 December 2020 |access-date=24 August 2022 |archive-date=4 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704080747/https://assam.gov.in/about-us/389 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| seal_size = 100px
| anthem = "]"<ref name="ab">{{cite book |last=Baruah |first=Krishna Dulal |title=Xongitor byobohari xutro aru guitar |date=May 2004 |publisher=Ananta Hazarika, Banalata |edition=2nd |page=46 |chapter=O mor aponar dex}}</ref><br/> (O my Dearest Country)
| motto = Joi Aai Axom ''(Hail mother Assam)'' <ref>{{cite web|url=https://assam.gov.in/about-us/389 |title=State Symbols &#124; Assam State Portal |publisher=Assam.gov.in |date=2020-12-01 |accessdate=2022-08-24}}</ref>
| image_map = IN-AS.svg
| anthem = "]"{{ref|est}}<br />''(O my Dearest Country)''
| coordinates = {{coord|26.14|91.77|region:IN-AS|display=inline,title}}
| map_alt =
| region = Northeast India
| map_caption =
| before_was = [[Assam (1947–1963)|
| image_map1 =
State of Assam]]
| map_caption1 =
| formation_date2 = formation1
| coordinates = {{coord|26.14|91.77|region:IN-AS|display=inline,title}}
| formation_date3 = 21 January 1972
| coor_pinpoint = Dispur, Guwahati
| formation_date4 = 26 January 1950<ref>{{cite book |last1=Steinberg |first1=S. |title=The Statesman's Year-Book 1964–65: The One-Volume ENCYCLOPAEDIA of all nations |date=2016 |publisher=Springer |isbn=978-0-230-27093-0 |page=412 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O43LDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA412 |access-date=3 September 2018 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230333/https://books.google.com/books?id=O43LDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA412 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| coordinates_footnotes =
| capital = Dispur
| subdivision_type = Country
| largestcity = Guwahati
| subdivision_name = {{flag|India}}
| districts = ]
| established_title1 = Statehood{{ref|cap|†}}
| Governor = ]<ref name="Governor_2024">{{cite news |title=President Droupadi Murmu appoints six new Governors, reshuffles three others |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lakshman-acharya-appointed-assam-governor-gulab-chand-kataria-replaces-banwarilal-purohit-in-punjab/article68454949.ece |work=The Hindu |date=27 July 2024 |access-date=28 July 2024}}</ref>
| established_date1 = 26 January 1950<ref>{{cite book |last1=Steinberg |first1=S. |title=The Statesman's Year-Book 1964–65: The One-Volume ENCYCLOPAEDIA of all nations |date=2016 |publisher=Springer |isbn=978-0-230-27093-0 |page=412 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O43LDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA412 }}</ref>
| Chief_Minister = ]
| seat_type = Capital
| party = ]
| seat = ]
| judiciary = ]
| seat1_type = Largest city
| legislature_type = Unicameral
| seat1 = ]
| assembly = ]
| parts_type = ]
| assembly_seats = 126 seats
| parts_style = para
| rajya_sabha_seats = 7 seats
| p1 = ]
| lok_sabha_seats = 14 seats
| government_footnotes =
| area_total_km2 = 78438
| governing_body = {{nowrap|]}}
| area_rank = 16th
| leader_title = ]
| length_km = 725
| leader_name = ]<ref name="nie-Mukhi" />
| width_km = 30
| leader_title1 = ]
| elevation_m = 80
| leader_name1 = ] (])
| elevation_max_m = 1,960
| leader_title2 = ]
| elevation_max_point = Cachar Hills section
| leader_name2 = ] (])
| elevation_min_m = 45
| leader_title3 = ]
| population_total = {{Increase}} 31,169,272
| leader_name3 = ] (])<br /> ] (])
| population_as_of = 2011
| leader_title4 = ]
| population_rank = 15th
| leader_name4 = ]
| population_urban = 14.1%
| unit_pref = Metric<!-- or US or UK -->
| population_rural = 85.9%
| area_footnotes =
| population_density = 397
| area_total_km2 = 78,438
| population_demonym = ]
| area_rank = ]
| 0fficial_Langs = ]<ref name=nclmanurep2010>{{cite web |archive-date = 28 December 2017|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171228171523/http://www.nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf |url=http://www.nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf |title=Report of the Commissioner for linguistic minorities: 52nd report (July 2014 to June 2015) |pages=58–59 |publisher=Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India |access-date = 16 February 2016 }}</ref> {{small|(for entire state except ]<ref name="BnOff" />)}} • ] {{small|(holds one of the official language status for the entire state of Assam<ref>{{cite news |last1=PTI |title=Assam Assembly Accords Associate Official Language Status To Bodo |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-assembly-accords-associate-official-language-status-to-bodo-2345750 |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=NDTV |date=30 December 2020}}</ref>)}} • ] {{small|(]{{efn|] has three districts. In all the three districts, ] (alias ]) serves as an official language, besides Bengali language.}} and ])}}<ref name="Meitei"/> • ] {{small|(])}}<ref name="BnOff"/>
| area_note =
| official_script = ] {{small|(for ] & ])}} • ] {{small|(for ])}} • ] {{small|(for ])}}
| elevation_max_m =
| GDP_footnotes = <ref name="Assam Budget 2021">{{cite web |url=https://finance.assam.gov.in/portlets/assam-budget-2021-22 |title=Assam Budget 2021 |date=16 July 2021 |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=17 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717122909/https://finance.assam.gov.in/portlets/assam-budget-2021-22 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| elevation_min_m =
| GDP_total = {{IncreaseNeutral}} {{INRConvert|6.43|lc|lk=r}}
| elevation_note =
| GDP_year = 2024–2025
| population_footnotes =
| GDP_rank = 18th
| population_total = 31169272
| GDP_per_capita = {{Increase}} {{INRConvert|118504|lk=r}}
| population_as_of = 2011
| GDP_per_capita_rank = 18th
| population_rank = ]
| HDI_year = 2018
| population_density_km2 = 397
| HDI = {{IncreaseNeutral}}0.614 {{color|#fc0|Medium}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/ |title=Sub-national HDI – Area Database – Global Data Lab |website=hdi.globaldatalab.org|access-date=13 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923120638/https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/|archive-date=23 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
| elevation_footnotes =
| HDI_rank = 30th
| elevation_m = 45-1960
| literacy = {{Increase}} 72.19%<ref name="pc-census2011">{{cite web |title=Census 2011 (Final Data) – Demographic details, Literate Population (Total, Rural & Urban) |url=http://planningcommission.gov.in/data/datatable/data_2312/DatabookDec2014%20307.pdf |website=planningcommission.gov.in |publisher=Planning Commission, Government of India |access-date=3 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180127163347/http://planningcommission.gov.in/data/datatable/data_2312/DatabookDec2014%20307.pdf |archive-date=27 January 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| elevation_ft = 148-6430
| literacy_year = 2011
| population_note =
| literacy_rank = 26th
| demographics_type1 = GDP {{nobold|(2020-21)}}
| sex_ratio = 958
| demographics1_footnotes = <ref name="Assam Budget 2021">{{cite web|url=https://finance.assam.gov.in/portlets/assam-budget-2021-22|title=Assam Budget 2021|date=16 July 2021|access-date=17 July 2021}}</ref>
| sexratio_year = 2011
| demographics1_title1 = ]
| sexratio_rank = 12th
| demographics1_info1 = {{INRConvert|3.74|lc}}
| iso_code = IN-AS
| demographics1_title2 = ]
| registration_plate = AS
| demographics1_info2 = {{INRConvert|109069}}
| website = assam.gov.in
| timezone1 = ]
| footnotes = • First recognised as an administrative division on 1 April 1911, and led to the establishment of ] by partitioning ]. <br /> • Assam was one of the original provincial divisions of British India. <br /> • Assam has had a legislature since 1937.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamassembly.gov.in/history.html |title=Assam Legislative Assembly - History |access-date=14 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913195856/http://www.assamassembly.gov.in/history.html |archive-date=13 September 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| utc_offset1 = +05:30
| foundation_day = Assam Day
| iso_code = ]
| mammal = ]
| blank_name_sec2 = ] {{nobold|(2018)}}
| bird = ]
| blank_info_sec2 = {{increase}} 0.614<ref name="GlobalDataLab">{{cite web|url=https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/|title=Sub-national HDI – Area Database – Global Data Lab|website=hdi.globaldatalab.org|access-date=13 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923120638/https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/|archive-date=23 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><br />{{color|#FFA500|medium}} · ]
| flower = ]
| blank1_name_sec2 = ] {{nobold|(2011)}}
| fruit = ]
| blank1_info_sec2 = 72.19%<ref name="pc-census2011">{{cite web |title=Census 2011 (Final Data) – Demographic details, Literate Population (Total, Rural & Urban) |url=http://planningcommission.gov.in/data/datatable/data_2312/DatabookDec2014%20307.pdf |website=planningcommission.gov.in |publisher=Planning Commission, Government of India |access-date=3 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180127163347/http://planningcommission.gov.in/data/datatable/data_2312/DatabookDec2014%20307.pdf |archive-date=27 January 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| tree = ]
| blank2_name_sec2 = ] {{nobold|(2011)}}
| image_highway = SH IN-AS.png
| blank2_info_sec2 = 958 ]/1000 ]<ref name="pc-census2011" />
| SH_numbers = ]
| demographics_type2 = Languages
| demographics2_title1 = Official
| demographics2_info1 = ]<ref name=nclmanurep2010>{{cite web |archive-date = 28 December 2017|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171228171523/http://www.nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf|url = http://www.nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf |title = Report of the Commissioner for linguistic minorities: 52nd report (July 2014 to June 2015) |pages = 58–59 |publisher = Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India |access-date = 16 February 2016 |df = dmy-all }}</ref>• ]<ref name="BodoOff">{{cite news |last1=PTI |title=Assam Assembly Accords Associate Official Language Status To Bodo |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-assembly-accords-associate-official-language-status-to-bodo-2345750 |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=NDTV |date=30 December 2020}}</ref>• ]<ref name="BnOff">{{Cite news|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/govt-withdraws-assamese-as-official-language-from-barak-valley-114090901180_1.html|title=Govt withdraws Assamese as official language from Barak valley|agency=Press Trust of India|date=9 September 2014|work=Business Standard India|access-date=29 January 2018}}</ref>
| demographics2_title2 =
| demographics2_info2 =
| website = {{URL|assam.gov.in/}}
| footnotes = {{ref|cap|†}} First recognised as an administrative division on 1 April 1911, and led to the establishment of ] by partitioning ]. <br /> {{note|cap|}} Assam was one of the original provincial divisions of British India. <br /> {{note|cap|}} Assam has had a legislature since 1937.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamassembly.gov.in/history.html |title=Assam Legislative Assembly - History |access-date=14 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913195856/http://www.assamassembly.gov.in/history.html |archive-date=13 September 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| official_name =
}} }}


'''Assam''' ({{IPAc-en|ə|'|s|æ|m|,_|æ|-}};<ref>{{cite Merriam-Webster|Assam|access-date=3 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite dictionary |url=http://www.lexico.com/definition/Assam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200107235127/https://www.lexico.com/definition/assam |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 January 2020 |title=Assam |dictionary=] UK English Dictionary |publisher=]}}</ref> {{IPA-as|ˈɔxɔm|3=As-অসম-2.oga|lang}}) is a state in ] ], south of the eastern ] along the ] and ] valleys. Assam covers an area of {{convert|78438|km2|mi2|abbr=on}}. The state is bordered by ] and ] to the north; ] and ] to the east; ], ], ] and ] to the south; and ] to the west via the ], a {{convert|22|km}} wide strip of land that connects the state to the rest of India. ] and ] are the official languages of Assam, while ] is an additional official language in the ]. '''Assam''' ({{IPAc-en|ə|'|s|æ|m|,_|æ|ˈ|s|æ|m}} {{respell|ə|SAM|,_|a|SAM}};<ref>{{cite Merriam-Webster|Assam|access-date=3 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite encyclopedia |url=http://www.lexico.com/definition/Assam |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200107235127/https://www.lexico.com/definition/assam |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 January 2020 |title=Assam |dictionary=] UK English Dictionary |publisher=]}}</ref> {{IPA|as|ɔ'xɔm|lang|As-অসম-2.oga}}) is a state in ] ], south of the eastern ] along the ] and ] valleys. Assam covers an area of {{convert|78438|km2|mi2|abbr=on}}. It is the second largest state in ] by area and the largest in terms of population, with more than 31 million inhabitants. The state is bordered by ] and ] to the north; ] and ] to the east; ], ], ] and ] to the south; and ] to the west via the ], a {{convert|22|km|mi|adj=mid|-wide}} strip of land that connects the state to the rest of India. ] and ] are two of the official languages for the entire state and ] (]) is recognised as an additional official language in three districts of ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Purkayastha |first=Biswa Kalyan |date=24 February 2024|title=Assam recognises Manipuri as associate official language in four districts|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/assam-recognises-manipuri-as-associate-official-language-in-four-districts-101708770769105.html |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=17 May 2024}}</ref> in ] and for the ] region, alongside ], which is also an official language in the Barak Valley.


Assam is known for ] and ]. The state was the first site for ] in ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/here-is-indias-oil-story/1153719/|title=Here is India's oil story|date=3 May 2018|website=The Financial Express|access-date=21 July 2019}}</ref> Assam is home to the one-horned ], along with the ], ], ] and various species of Asiatic birds, and provides one of the last wild habitats for the ]. The ] is aided by ] to ] and ], which are ]s. ] is famed for its ]s. ] forests are found in the state which, as a result of abundant rainfall, look green all year round. Assam receives more rainfall than most parts of India; this rain feeds the ], whose ] and ]s provide the region with a hydro-] environment. The state has 35 ] with 5 ]. ] (containing the state capital ]) is the largest city in ]. Assam is known for ] and ]. The state was the first site for ] in ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/here-is-indias-oil-story/1153719/ |title=Here is India's oil story |date=3 May 2018 |website=The Financial Express |access-date=21 July 2019 |archive-date=21 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721050940/https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/here-is-indias-oil-story/1153719/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Assam is home to the one-horned ], along with the ], ], ] and various species of Asiatic birds, and provides one of the last wild habitats for the ]. The ] is aided by ] to ] and ], which are ]s. ] is famed for its ]s. ] forests are found in the state which, as a result of abundant rainfall, look green all year round. Assam receives more rainfall than most parts of India; this rain feeds the ], whose ] and ]s provide the region with a distinctive hydro-] environment.


== Etymology == == Etymology ==
{{main|Etymology of Assam}} {{main|Etymology of Assam}}
The first dated mention of the region comes from '']'' (1st century) and ]'s ] (2nd century) which calls the region ''Kirrhadia'' after the ] population.<ref>''Besatia'' in the Schoff translation and also sometimes used by Ptolemy, they are a people similar to Kirradai and they lived in the region between "Assam and Sichuan" {{harv|Casson|1989|pp=241–243}}</ref><ref>"The ''Periplus of the Erythraen Sea'' (last quarter of the first century A.D) and Ptolemy's ''Geography'' (middle of the second century A.D) appear to call the land including Assam Kirrhadia after its Kirata population." {{harvcol|Sircar|1990|pp=60–61}}</ref> In the classical period and up to the 12th century the region east of the ], largely congruent to present-day Assam, was called ], and alternatively, ].<ref>"Prior to the thirteenth century the present region was called Kāmarūpa or, alternatively, Prāgjyotiṣapur", Lahiri, Nayanjot., ''Pre-Ahom Assam'' (Delhi 1991) p. 14</ref> Though a western portion of Assam as a region continued to be called ], the ] that emerged in the east, and which came to dominate the entire ], was called Assam (e.g. Mughals used ''Asham''); and the ] too was called Assam. Though the precise ] is not clear, the name Assam is associated with the ], originally called ''Shyam'' (]).<ref>"Ahoms also gave Assam and its language their name (''Ahom'' and the modern ''ɒχɒm'' 'Assam' come from an attested earlier form ''asam'', ''acam'', probably from a Burmese corruption of the word ''Shan/Shyam'', cf. ''Siam'': Kakati 1962; 1-4)." {{harv|Masica|1993|p=50}}</ref> The first dated mention of the region comes from '']'' (1st century) and ]'s ] (2nd century), which calls the region ''Kirrhadia'', apparently after the ] population.<ref>''Besatia'' in the Schoff translation and also sometimes used by Ptolemy, they are a people similar to Kirradai and they lived in the region between "Assam and Sichuan" {{harv|Casson|1989|pp=241–243}}</ref><ref>"The ''Periplus of the Erythraen Sea'' (last quarter of the first century A.D) and Ptolemy's ''Geography'' (middle of the second century A.D) appear to call the land including Assam Kirrhadia after its Kirata population." {{harvcol|Sircar|1990|pp=60–61}}</ref> In the classical period and up to the 12th century, the region east of the ], largely congruent to present-day Assam, was called ], and alternatively, ].<ref>"Prior to the thirteenth century the present region was called Kāmarūpa or, alternatively, Prāgjyotiṣapur", Lahiri, Nayanjot., ''Pre-Ahom Assam'' (Delhi 1991) p. 14</ref> Though a western portion of Assam as a region continued to be called ], the ] that emerged in the east, and which came to dominate the entire ], was called Assam (e.g. Mughals used ''Asham''); and the ] too was called Assam. Though the precise ] is not clear, the name Assam is associated with the ], originally called ''Shyam'' (]).<ref>"Ahoms also gave Assam and its language their name (''Ahom'' and the modern ''ɒχɒm'' 'Assam' come from an attested earlier form ''asam'', ''acam'', probably from a Burmese corruption of the word ''Shan/Shyam'', cf. ''Siam'': Kakati 1962; 1-4)." {{harv|Masica|1993|p=50}}</ref>


== History == == History ==
{{Main|History of Assam}} {{Main|History of Assam}}
{{cleanup|reason=too long|date=August 2019}}


=== Pre-history === === Pre-history ===
{{further|People of Assam}} {{further|People of Assam}}
Assam and adjoining regions have evidences of human settlement from the beginning of the ]. The hills at the height of 1,500 to 2,000 feet (460–615&nbsp;m) were popular habitats probably due to availability of exposed dolerite basalt, useful for tool-making.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA">{{Citation| last = Sircar| first = D C| contribution = Pragjyotisha-Kamarupa| year = 1990| title = The Comprehensive History of Assam| editor-last = Barpujari| editor-first = H K| volume = I| pages = 59–78| place = Guwahati| publisher = Publication Board, Assam}}</ref> Assam and adjoining regions have evidences of human settlement from the beginning of the ]. The hills at the height of 1,500 to 2,000 feet (460–615&nbsp;m) were popular habitats probably due to availability of exposed dolerite basalt, useful for tool-making.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA">{{Citation |last=Sircar |first=D C |contribution=Pragjyotisha-Kamarupa |year=1990 |title=The Comprehensive History of Assam| editor-last = Barpujari| editor-first = H K |volume=I |pages=59–78 |place=Guwahati |publisher=Publication Board, Assam}}</ref>
] site in Guwahati has revealed ]-] era artefacts including flight of stairs and a water tank which may date from 1st century BCE and may be 2,000 years old. Experts speculate that another significant find at Ambari is ] ] from the 2nd century BCE.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jan2316/at055|title=The Assam Tribune Online|website=www.assamtribune.com|access-date=3 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160127024137/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jan2316%2Fat055|archive-date=27 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/relics-hold-clue-to-missing-history-sunga-kushana-era-terracotta-artefacts-may-say-if-guwahati-existed-before-7th-century-ad/cid/345105|title=Relics hold clue to missing history – Sunga-Kushana era terracotta artefacts may say if Guwahati existed before 7th century AD|website=www.telegraphindia.com|access-date=3 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190104021630/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/relics-hold-clue-to-missing-history-sunga-kushana-era-terracotta-artefacts-may-say-if-guwahati-existed-before-7th-century-ad/cid/345105|archive-date=4 January 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> ] site in Guwahati has revealed ]-] era artefacts including flight of stairs and a water tank which may date from 1st century BCE and may be 2,000 years old. Experts speculate that another significant find at Ambari is ] ] from the 2nd century BCE.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jan2316/at055 |title=The Assam Tribune Online |website=www.assamtribune.com|access-date=3 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160127024137/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jan2316%2Fat055|archive-date=27 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/relics-hold-clue-to-missing-history-sunga-kushana-era-terracotta-artefacts-may-say-if-guwahati-existed-before-7th-century-ad/cid/345105 |title=Relics hold clue to missing history – Sunga-Kushana era terracotta artefacts may say if Guwahati existed before 7th century AD |website=www.telegraphindia.com|access-date=3 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190104021630/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/relics-hold-clue-to-missing-history-sunga-kushana-era-terracotta-artefacts-may-say-if-guwahati-existed-before-7th-century-ad/cid/345105 |archive-date=4 January 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Legend === === Legend ===
{{further|Danava dynasty|Bhauma dynasty|Asura Kingdom}} {{further|Danava dynasty|Bhauma dynasty|Asura kingdom}}
According to a late text, ] (c. 9th–10th century ]), the earliest ruler of Assam was Mahiranga Danav of the ], which was removed by ] of ] and established the ]. The last of these rulers, also Naraka, was slain by ]. Naraka's son ] became the king, who (it is mentioned in the Mahabharata) fought for the ]s in the ] with an army of ], ] and dwellers of the eastern coast. At the same time towards the east in central Assam, ] was ruled by another line of kings.<ref>India History Association. Session (2001), ''Proceedings of North East India History Association North East'' he came under the 'bad' influence of Banasura, ruler of Sonitapura (identified with Tezpur now under Sonitpur district in central Assam), and ended up sidelining Kamakhya in favour of Siva. Thereafter Naraka forsook the guidance</ref> According to a late text, ] (c. 9th–10th century ]), the earliest ruler of Assam was Mahiranga Danav of the ], which was removed by ] of ] and established the ]. The last of these rulers, also Naraka, was slain by ]. Naraka's son ] became the king, who (it is mentioned in the Mahabharata) fought for the ]s in the ] with an army of ], ] and dwellers of the eastern coast. At the same time towards the east in central Assam, ] was ruled by another line of kings.<ref>India History Association. Session (2001), ''Proceedings of North East India History Association North East'' he came under the 'bad' influence of Banasura, ruler of Sonitapura (identified with Tezpur now under Sonitpur district in central Assam), and ended up sidelining Kamakhya in favour of Siva. Thereafter Naraka forsook the guidance</ref>


=== Ancient era === === Ancient era ===
{{multiple image {{multiple image
| align = right | align = right
| image1 = Kamarupa map.png | image1 = Kamarupa map (cropped).png
| width1 = 185 | width1 = 185
| caption1 = ] kingdom at its height | caption1 = ] kingdom at its height
| image2 = Madan kamdev ruins.JPG | image2 = DEOPAHAR NUMALIGARH ASSAM INDIA .jpg
| width2 = 235 | width2 = 185
| caption2 ={{center|] ruins}} | caption2 = {{center|] ruins}}
}} }}

{{further|Kamarupa}} {{further|Kamarupa}}

Evidence indicates presence of civilization in Assam around 2nd century BCE, a rock cut stupa at ] has been dated to 200 BCE contemporary with rock cut ] and ] caves of Maharashtra.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Barman|first=Bratatee|title=Archaeology of BCE 200 -CE 1200 Assam (Northeast India): Pre-literary to Historical and Early Medieval Periods|url=https://www.academia.edu/45688900|journal=Archaeology in Northeast India Recent Trends and Future Prospects Essays Celebrating 150 Years of Research|date=January 2020 |language=en}}</ref> ]'s 4th-century-CE ] mentions ]<ref>Tej Ram Sharma,1978, "Personal and geographical names in the Gupta inscriptions. (1.publ.)", Page 254, Kamarupa consisted of the Western districts of the Brahmaputra valley which being the most powerful state.</ref> and ] (Central Assam)<ref>Suresh Kant Sharma, Usha Sharma – 2005,"Discovery of North-East India: Geography, History, Culture, ... – Volume 3", Page 248, Davaka (Nowgong) and Kamarupa as separate and submissive friendly kingdoms.</ref> as frontier kingdoms of the ]. Davaka was later absorbed by Kamarupa, which grew into a large kingdom that spanned from Karatoya river to near present ] and covered the entire Brahmaputra valley, ], parts of ] and, at times ] and parts of ].<ref>The eastern border of Kamarupa is given by the temple of the goddess Tamreshvari (Pūrvāte Kāmarūpasya devī Dikkaravasini in ]) near present-day Sadiya. "...the temple of the goddess Tameshwari (Dikkaravasini) is now located at modern Sadiya about 100 miles to the northeast of Sibsagar" {{harv|Sircar|1990|pp=63–68}}.</ref> The kingdom was ruled by three dynasties who traced their lineage from a mleccha or Kirata Naraka; the ] (c. 350–650 CE), the ] (c.655–900 CE) and the ] (c. 900–1100 CE), from their capitals in present-day ] (]), Tezpur (]) and ] (]) respectively. All three dynasties claimed descent from ]. In the reign of the Varman king, ] (c. 600–650 CE), the Chinese traveller ] visited the ] and recorded his travels. Later, after weakening and disintegration (after the Kamarupa-Palas), the Kamarupa tradition was extended to c. 1255 CE by the Lunar I (c. 1120–1185 CE) and Lunar II (c. 1155–1255 CE) dynasties.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" />
Evidence indicates presence of civilisation in Assam around 2nd century BCE, a rock cut stupa at ] has been dated to 200 BCE contemporary with rock cut ] and ] caves of Maharashtra. The site is located in a hilly terrain where several rock-cut ]s, votive stupas and the deities of Hindu, Buddhist and ] pantheon are scattered.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Barman |first=Bratatee |title=Archaeology of BCE 200 -CE 1200 Assam (Northeast India): Pre-literary to Historical and Early Medieval Periods |url=https://www.academia.edu/45688900 |journal=Archaeology in Northeast India Recent Trends and Future Prospects Essays Celebrating 150 Years of Research |date=January 2020 |language=en |access-date=14 August 2021 |archive-date=27 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220427104437/https://www.academia.edu/45688900 |url-status=live }}</ref> ]'s 4th-century-CE ] mentions ]<ref>Tej Ram Sharma,1978, "Personal and geographical names in the Gupta inscriptions. (1.publ.)", Page 254, Kamarupa consisted of the Western districts of the Brahmaputra valley which being the most powerful state.</ref> and ] (Central Assam)<ref>Suresh Kant Sharma, Usha Sharma – 2005,"Discovery of North-East India: Geography, History, Culture, ... – Volume 3", Page 248, Davaka (Nowgong) and Kamarupa as separate and submissive friendly kingdoms.</ref> as frontier kingdoms of the ]. Davaka was later absorbed by Kamarupa, which grew into a large kingdom that spanned from Karatoya river to near present ] and covered the entire Brahmaputra valley, ], parts of ] and, at times ] and parts of ].<ref>The eastern border of Kamarupa is given by the temple of the goddess Tamreshvari (Pūrvāte Kāmarūpasya devī Dikkaravasini in ]) near present-day Sadiya. "...the temple of the goddess Tameshwari (Dikkaravasini) is now located at modern Sadiya about 100 miles to the northeast of Sibsagar" {{harv|Sircar|1990|pp=63–68}}.</ref> The kingdom was ruled by three dynasties who traced their lineage from a mleccha or Kirata Naraka; the ] (c. 350–650 CE), the ] (c.655–900 CE) and the ] (c. 900–1100 CE), from their capitals in present-day ] (]), Tezpur (]) and ] (]) respectively. All three dynasties claimed descent from ]. In the reign of the Varman king, ] (c. 600–650 CE), the Chinese traveller ] visited the ] and recorded his travels. Later, after weakening and disintegration (after the Kamarupa-Palas), the Kamarupa tradition was extended to c. 1255 CE by the Lunar I (c. 1120–1185 CE) and Lunar II (c. 1155–1255 CE) dynasties.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" />


=== Medieval era === === Medieval era ===
{{further|Kamata kingdom|Koch dynasty|Ahom kingdom|Chutia kingdom|Kachari kingdom|Baro-Bhuyan}} {{further|Kamata kingdom|Koch dynasty|Ahom kingdom|Chutia kingdom|Kachari kingdom|Baro-Bhuyan}}
The ], a ] group by origin, held the regions on both the banks of Brahmaputra with its domain in the area eastwards from ] (north bank) and ] (south bank), in ] and in the state of ]. It was annexed by the Ahoms in the year 1524. The rivalry between the Chutias and Ahoms for the supremacy of eastern Assam led to a series of conflicts between them from the early 16th century.


The Medieval Assam history may have started with the advent of ] in the early part of the 13th century and covers their entire rule of 600 years till 1826. The medieval history of Assam is especially known for its conflict with Muslim powers under ] and ], finally resulting in Assamese victory, however, this military glory was shattered in the early 19th century when it failed to resist the ], which led to its annexation.<ref>{{harvcol|Baruah|1986|p=36}}</ref>
The ], another ] dynasty, (13th century–1854) ruled from ] to central and southern Assam and had their capital at ]. With the expansion of Ahom kingdom, by the early 17th century, the Chutia areas were annexed and since c. 1536 the Kacharis remained only in ] and ], and more as an Ahom ally than a competing force.


===Chutia kingdom===
The ], a ] group, ruled ].<ref>Banikanta Kakati, ''Assamese:Its formation and development''</ref> The Ahom built their kingdom and consolidated their power in Eastern Assam with the modern town of ] as their capital. Until the early 16th century, the Ahoms ruled a small kingdom in ] and suddenly expanded during King ]'s rule taking advantage of weakening rule of Chutia and Dimasa kingdoms. By 1681, the whole track down to the border of the modern district of ] came permanently under their sway. Ahoms ruled for nearly 600 years (1228–1826) with major expansions in the early 16th century at the cost of ] and ] kingdoms. Since the 13th century, the centre of the Ahom polity was upper Assam; the kingdom was gradually extended to the ] in the 17th or 18th century. It was at its zenith during the reign of ] or Swargadeo ] (c. 1696–1714).


The ], another ] dynasty, established sovereignty around 1510. The Koch kingdom in ] and present-day ] was at its zenith in the early reign of ] (c. 1540–1587). It split into two in c. 1581, the western part as a ] vassal and the eastern as an Ahom satellite state. Later, in 1682, ] was entirely annexed by the Ahoms. ], a ] group by origin, held the regions on both the banks of Brahmaputra with its domain in the area eastwards from ] (north bank) and ] (south bank), in ] and in the state of ]. It was annexed by the Ahoms in the year 1524. The rivalry between the Chutias and Ahoms for the supremacy of eastern Assam led to a series of conflicts between them from the early 16th century.


===Kachari kingdom===
Despite numerous invasions, mostly by the Muslim rulers, no western power ruled Assam until the arrival of the British. Though the ] made seventeen attempts to invade, they were never successful. The most successful invader ], a governor of ], briefly occupied ] (c. 1662–1663), the then capital, but found it difficult to prevent ] attacks on his forces, forcing them to leave. The decisive victory of the Assamese led by general ] on the Mughals, then under command of ], in the ] in 1671 almost ended Mughal ambitions in this region. The Mughals were comprehensively defeated in the ] and expelled from Lower Assam during the reign of ] in 1682.<ref>"In the Battle of Itakhuli in September 1682, the Ahom forces chased the defeated Mughals nearly one hundred kilometers back to the Manas river. The Manas then became the Ahom-Mughal boundary until the British occupation." {{cite book |last=Richards |first=John F. |title=The Mughal Empire |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC |page=247 |access-date=26 January 2013 |year=1995 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |location=Cambridge |isbn=0521566037 }}</ref>
{{Main|Kachari kingdom}}

The Dimasa, a Bodo-Kachari dynasty that ruled from the 13th century until 1854, controlled territories stretching from the Dikhow River to central and southern Assam, with their capital at Dimapur. By the early 17th century, with the expansion of the Ahom kingdom, the Chutia regions were annexed, and by around 1536, the Kacharis were confined to the areas of Cachar and North Cachar. At this point, they became more of an ally to the Ahoms than a rival force.

=== Ahom kingdom ===

=== Early period ===
{{Main|Sukaphaa}}
The ], a ] group, ruled ] for almost 600 years.<ref>Banikanta Kakati, ''Assamese:Its formation and development''</ref> In the year 1228 the Tai-Ahoms came to the ] under the leadership of ] along with 9,000 men from ], a Tai state, situated in South-Western ] of China, and established his kingdom in ]. In 1253, he founded the capital city in a hillock and named it ]. At the time of his advent, the area was inhabited by ]s and Borahis, to the north, to the north-east was the ] and to the south was the ] and to the west on the plains were the ].

For more than two and a half centuries, Sukapha and his descendants, while primarily focused on administering the kingdom, upheld their dominance in the valley through their military prowess.<ref>{{Harvcol|Baruah|1986|pp=220–224}}</ref>
]

==== Expansion ====
{{Main|Suhungmung|Dimasa kingdom}}
] (1230) in red dotted lines, ] (1560) in blue lines, ] (1700) in red lines.]]
The reign of ] marked the first massive expansion of ]. Besides sending a punitive expeditions against the Nagas, they fought numerous battles with the Bhuyans, Chutias, Kacharis, Turko-Afghans, and the Naras. In 1522–23 the ] was annexed and the captured tract was placed under the administration of Sadiya-Khowa-Gohain. After securing the eastern tract, Suhungmung than expanded his kingdom westwards through conquest and extended it till Marangi to the west of the ] river. When the Kacharis tried to regain the lost territory they were defeated and their capital ] was sacked. Over the remaining part of the Kachari kingdom, a new king Detsung was placed as a tributary, but Detsung proved disloyal and revolted against the Ahoms. He was subsequently executed. A new dependent king was set up on the Kachari throne with the name of Nirbhaynarayan. Since then the Kachari kings were regarded as 'thapita sanchita' meaning - established and maintained by the Ahom rulers.

Suhungmung's reign also witnessed the first Muslim-invasions of the kingdom. After a series of battle, the invaders were roundly defeated and were chased up to ]. The Sultan of Bengal, terrified by the approaching army of Suhungmung, made peace by offering his two daughters and five paraganas, along with other articles as dowry to the king. The rising Koch king ] also offered his submission, and the Ahom general Ton-Kham granted him all the territories that were received as dowry from the Sultan of Bengal on the condition of annual tribute.<ref>{{Harvcol|Baruah|1986|pp=224–234}}</ref>

The successors of Suhungmung, ] and ], sent many expeditions against the Bhuyans and Nagas. But were significant with the wars with the Koch. During the reign of ], the Ahoms lost to a Koch army led by ] and the Ahoms had to accept Koch supremacy and had to give up the tracts of north of Brahmaputra. However, the lost tract was soon recovered with further military expeditions.<ref>{{Harvcol|Gogoi|2017|pp=1–17}}</ref>

=== Later Period ===

==== War with Mughals ====
{{Main|Ahom kingdom|Bengal Subah|Koch dynasty|Ahom–Mughal conflicts}}
] ]]
Soon after the death of ] his kingdom, got divided between the sons of Nara Narayan and ] as ] and ]. In 1609, Laxmi Narayan king of ] accepted the vassalage of ], and the ] king Raghudev and later his son Parikshit sought assistance from Ahoms. In 1612, the ] attacked ] and his territory up to ] were annexed in the Mughal domain. This brought the Mughals with direct contact with Ahoms. Meanwhile, Parikshit was trying to renew his friendship with Ahoms, but got captured, and died on his way to his kingdom. Later ], a brother of Parikshit who had taken refugee under the Ahoms was made the king of Darrang in 1615 by the Ahom king ]. From 1616, onwards many battles were fought the Mughal without any tangible result, with the first ] till after the last battle where the treaty was concluded in 1639 which fixed the Asurar ali on the south bank and the Barnadi on the north bank of the Brahmaputra as the boundary between the two.
Pratap Singha had also enacted the ] and created a number of army and civil administration posts such as the ] and ].
] a 17th-century mud fort ruins|left]]
] taking the advantage of ] between the sons of ], occupied the imperial territories up to ]. ] after becoming the emperor, appointed ], to recover the lost territory. After fail negotiations. In November 1661, Mir Jumla proceeded with a huge army and fleet to invade Ahom kingdom. Here the Ahoms, lost at several places, and then captured the Ahom capital ]. During the rainy season Mir Jumla and his army suffered immeasurable hardship due to the climatic condition of the valley in addition the guerrilla fighting resorted against the invaders. And at last no noticeable gain, negotiation started and in January 1663, ] was concluded. According to the treaty, the Ahoms had to acknowledging Mughal supremacy, ceded the territory west of the Bharali on the north bank and the Kalang on the south bank along with a huge amount of war indemnity and handing over the sons of the Gohains as hostage and two Ahom princesses to the Mughal harem.

Soon after the departure of ], ] died and the new king ] began preparations to overthrow Mughal supremacy and to recover the lost territory. After numerous battles, finally after the ] the Mughals were forced to retreat.

The period after 1671 was very unstable due to the rivalry among the nobles, who wanted to arrest their own political power and influence by placing their own choice of prince in the throne. In 1679, ], in hopes of becoming king with the help of Mughals, surrendered Guwahati without any battle. But after the accession of ], fought the final ] where the Mughals were badly defeated. And the since then the border was fixed at Manah on the north bank and the Nagarbera hill on the south bank of the Brahmaputra till its annexation by the ] in 1826.<ref>"In the Battle of Itakhuli in September 1682, the Ahom forces chased the defeated Mughals nearly one hundred kilometers back to the Manas river. The Manas then became the Ahom-Mughal boundary until the British occupation." {{cite book |last=Richards |first=John F. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC |title=The Mughal Empire |publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=1995 |isbn=0521566037 |location=Cambridge |page=247 |access-date=26 January 2013 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230334/https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Harvcol|Gogoi|2017|pp=17–20}}</ref>

=== 18th century ===
{{see also|Rudra Singha|Siva Singha|Moamoria rebellion}}
], Devi dol and Vishnu dol on the banks ], the largest temple constructed during Ahom era]]
] and ] by Badha Ligira, {{Circa|1736}}.]]
] succeeded ], his reign is notable because of his military achievements and his socio-culture contributions. He had both subjugated the Kachari and Jaintia kingdoms, and had captured their kings and forced to accept Ahom suzerainty and agreed them to pay annual tribute. Other than that, several expeditions were sent against the Miris, the Daflas, the Naga Mishmis and the Nagas of Namsung, Dayang and the Rengma Nagas during late 17th century and early 18th century. Rudra Singha had made extensive preparations for his invasion of Bengal but remained unfulfilled due to his sudden death in 1714.

After ], the Ahoms achieved no notable military achievement. During this period from, ] to ], the kingdom witnessed peace and prosperity and was significant for constructive activities and other development. In the field of religion also, ] spread all over the kingdom and started to influence all aspects of people's life. The religious heads of Vaisnavite monastery exalted great influence with royal patronage and established numerous ] and most of the people became their disciples. So got the Ahom court greatly came under the influence of Sakta Brahman priests and astrologers. The religious policies concluded by ] and the persecutions of unfavored Satras, embroiled the situation more along with the pressure of ] in the 18th century.<ref>{{Harvcol|Gogoi|2017|pp=20–26}}</ref>

This finally resulted in the ] (1769–1805), which greatly weakened the ] where the country was greatly depopulated and unorganised. The political rivalry between the nobles made a pathway for the Burmese to invade and weakened it more and finally leading to its annexation.


=== Colonial era === === Colonial era ===
Line 149: Line 195:
{{further|Colonial Assam|Assam Province}} {{further|Colonial Assam|Assam Province}}


The discovery of '']'' in 1834 in Assam was followed by testing in 1836–37 in London. The British allowed companies to rent land from 1839 onwards. Thereafter tea plantations proliferated in Eastern Assam,<ref name=Roy>{{cite book|last=Roy|first=Tirthankar|title=India in the World Economy: From Antiquity to the Present|year=2012|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-1-107-00910-3|page=202}}</ref> where the soil and the climate were most suitable. Problems with the imported Han Chinese labourers from China and hostility from native Assamese resulted in the migration of forced labourers from central and eastern parts of India. After initial trial and error with planting the Chinese and the Assamese-Chinese hybrid varieties, the planters later accepted the local '']'' as the most suitable variety for Assam. By the 1850s, the industry started seeing some profits. The industry saw initial growth, when in 1861, investors were allowed to own land in Assam and it saw substantial progress with the invention of new technologies and machinery for preparing processed tea during the 1870s. The discovery of '']'' in 1834 in Assam was followed by testing in 1836–37 in London. The British allowed companies to rent land from 1839 onwards. Thereafter tea plantations proliferated in Eastern Assam,<ref name=Roy>{{cite book |last=Roy |first=Tirthankar |title=India in the World Economy: From Antiquity to the Present |year=2012 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-1-107-00910-3 |page=202}}</ref> where the soil and the climate were most suitable. Problems with the imported Han Chinese labourers from China and hostility from native Assamese resulted in the migration of forced labourers from central and eastern parts of India. After initial trial and error with planting the Chinese and the Assamese-Chinese hybrid varieties, the planters later accepted the local '']'' as the most suitable variety for Assam. By the 1850s, the industry started seeing some profits. The industry saw initial growth, when in 1861, investors were allowed to own land in Assam and it saw substantial progress with the invention of new technologies and machinery for preparing processed tea during the 1870s.


Despite the commercial success, tea labourers continued to be exploited, working and living under poor conditions. Fearful of greater government interference, the tea growers formed the ] in 1888 to lobby to retain the status quo. The organisation was successful in this, but even after India's independence, conditions of the labourers have improved very little.<ref>{{Citation Despite the commercial success, tea labourers continued to be exploited, working and living under poor conditions. Fearful of greater government interference, the tea growers formed the ] in 1888 to lobby to retain the status quo. The organisation was successful in this, but even after India's independence, conditions of the labourers have improved very little.<ref>{{Citation |last1=MacFarlane |first1=Alan |last2=MacFarlane |first2=Iris |title=Green Gold, The Empire of Tea, Ch. 6–11 |publisher=Random House, London |year=2003}}</ref>
| last1 = MacFarlane | first1 = Alan
| last2 = MacFarlane | first2 = Iris
| title = Green Gold, The Empire of Tea, Ch. 6–11
| publisher = Random House, London
| year = 2003 }}</ref>


In the later part of the 18th century, religious tensions and atrocities by the nobles led to the ] (1769–1805), resulting in tremendous casualties of lives and property. The rebellion was suppressed but the kingdom was severely weakened by the civil war. Political rivalry between Prime Minister Purnananda ] and Badan Chandra ], the ] Viceroy of Western Assam, led to an invitation to the Burmese by the latter,<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 225</ref><ref>Bhuyan Dr. S.K. Tunkhungia Buranji or A History of Assam (1681–1826) 1968 page 199</ref><ref>Barbaruah Hiteswar Ahomar-Din or A History of Assam under the Ahoms 1981 page 299</ref><ref>Barua Gunaviram Assam Buranji or A History of Assam 2008 page 108</ref> in turn leading to three successive ]. The reigning monarch ] tried to check the Burmese invaders but he was defeated after fierce resistance. And Ahom occupied Assam was captured by the Burmese.<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 230</ref><ref>Bhuyan Dr. S.K. Tunkhungia Buranji or A History of Assam (1681–1826) 1968 page 206</ref><ref>Barbaruah Hiteswar Ahomar-Din or A History of Assam under the Ahoms 1981 page 320</ref> In the later part of the 18th century, religious tensions and atrocities by the nobles led to the ] (1769–1805), resulting in tremendous casualties of lives and property. The rebellion was suppressed but the kingdom was severely weakened by the civil war. Political rivalry between Prime Minister Purnananda ] and Badan Chandra ], the ] Viceroy of Western Assam, led to an invitation to the Burmese by the latter,<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 225</ref><ref>Bhuyan Dr. S.K. Tunkhungia Buranji or A History of Assam (1681–1826) 1968 page 199</ref><ref>Barbaruah Hiteswar Ahomar-Din or A History of Assam under the Ahoms 1981 page 299</ref><ref>Barua Gunaviram Assam Buranji or A History of Assam 2008 page 108</ref> in turn leading to three successive ]. The reigning monarch ] tried to check the Burmese invaders but he was defeated after fierce resistance, which led to the Burmese occupation of Assam.<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 230</ref><ref>Bhuyan Dr. S.K. Tunkhungia Buranji or A History of Assam (1681–1826) 1968 page 206</ref><ref>Barbaruah Hiteswar Ahomar-Din or A History of Assam under the Ahoms 1981 page 320</ref>


A reign of terror was unleashed by the Burmese on the Assamese people,<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 231</ref><ref>Bhuyan Dr. S.K. Tunkhungia Buranji or A History of Assam (1681–1826) 1968 page 207</ref><ref>Barbaruah Hiteswar Ahomar-Din or A History of Assam under the Ahoms 1981 page 318</ref><ref>Barua Gunaviram Assam Buranji or A History of Assam 2008 page 116-117</ref> who fled to neighbouring kingdoms and British-ruled ].<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 232</ref><ref>Barua Gunaviram Assam Buranji or A History of Assam 2008 page117</ref> The Burmese reached the ]'s borders, and the ] ensued in 1824. The war ended under the ]<ref>{{Citation|editor-first=C. U.|editor-last=Aitchison |title=The Treaty of Yandaboo, (A Collection of Treaties, Engagements and Sanads: Relating to India and Neighbouring Countries. Vol. XII.) |place=Calcutta |pages=230–233 |url=http://projectsouthasia.sdstate.edu/Docs/history/primarydocs/Treaties/Burma/002.htm |publisher=Projectsouthasia.sdstate.edu |year=1931 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202003039/http://projectsouthasia.sdstate.edu/Docs/history/primarydocs/Treaties/Burma/002.htm |archive-date=2 December 2008 }}</ref> in 1826, with the Company taking control of Western Assam and installing ] as king of Upper Assam in 1833. The arrangement lasted until 1838 and thereafter the British gradually annexed the entire region. Thereafter the court language and medium of instruction in educational institutions of Assam was made ], instead of Assamese. Starting from 1836 until 1873, this imposition of a foreign tongue created greater unemployment among the ] and Assamese literature naturally suffered in its growth.<ref>{{Cite book|title=North-East India, Problem Prospect and Politics|last=Barpujari|first=H.K.|publisher=Spectrum Publishers.|year=1998|location=Guwahati|page=41}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|title=Social History of Assam|last=Bose|first=M.L.|publisher=Ashok Kumar Mittal Concept Publishing Company|year=1989|location=New Delhi|page=91}}</ref> A reign of terror was unleashed by the Burmese on the Assamese people,<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 231</ref><ref>Bhuyan Dr. S.K. Tunkhungia Buranji or A History of Assam (1681–1826) 1968 page 207</ref><ref>Barbaruah Hiteswar Ahomar-Din or A History of Assam under the Ahoms 1981 page 318</ref><ref>Barua Gunaviram Assam Buranji or A History of Assam 2008 page 116-117</ref> who fled to neighbouring kingdoms and British-ruled ].<ref>Gait E.A. A History of Assam 1926 Calcutta and Shimla Thacker & Co page 232</ref><ref>Barua Gunaviram Assam Buranji or A History of Assam 2008 page117</ref> The Burmese reached the ]'s borders, and the ] ensued in 1824. The war ended under the ]<ref>{{Citation|editor-first=C. U.|editor-last=Aitchison |title=The Treaty of Yandaboo, (A Collection of Treaties, Engagements and Sanads: Relating to India and Neighbouring Countries. Vol. XII.) |place=Calcutta |pages=230–233 |url=http://projectsouthasia.sdstate.edu/Docs/history/primarydocs/Treaties/Burma/002.htm |publisher=Projectsouthasia.sdstate.edu |year=1931 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202003039/http://projectsouthasia.sdstate.edu/Docs/history/primarydocs/Treaties/Burma/002.htm |archive-date=2 December 2008}}</ref> in 1826, with the Company taking control of Western Assam and installing ] as king of Upper Assam in 1833. The arrangement lasted until 1838 and thereafter the British gradually annexed the entire region. Thereafter the court language and medium of instruction in educational institutions of Assam was made ], instead of Assamese. Starting from 1836 until 1873, this imposition of a foreign tongue created greater unemployment among the ] and Assamese literature naturally suffered in its growth.<ref>{{Cite book |title=North-East India, Problem Prospect and Politics |last=Barpujari |first=H.K. |publisher=Spectrum Publishers. |year=1998 |location=Guwahati |page=41}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=Social History of Assam |last=Bose |first=M.L. |publisher=Ashok Kumar Mittal Concept Publishing Company |year=1989 |location=New Delhi |page=91}}</ref>
]]] ]]]


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The Assam territory was first separated from Bengal in 1874 as the 'North-East Frontier' ], also known as the Assam Chief-Commissionership. It was incorporated into the new province of ] in 1905 after the partition of Bengal (1905–1911) and re-established in 1912 as ].<ref>], ''A Popular History of British India.'' p. 505</ref> The Assam territory was first separated from Bengal in 1874 as the 'North-East Frontier' ], also known as the Assam Chief-Commissionership. It was incorporated into the new province of ] in 1905 after the partition of Bengal (1905–1911) and re-established in 1912 as ].<ref>], ''A Popular History of British India.'' p. 505</ref>


After a few initially unsuccessful attempts to gain independence for Assam during the 1850s, anti-colonial Assamese joined and actively supported the ] against the British from the early 20th century, with ] emerging as the preeminent nationalist leader in the Assam Congress.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} Bordoloi's major political rival in this time was Sir Saidullah, who was representing the ], and had the backing of the influential Muslim cleric ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/publication/faultlines/volume13/Article2.htm|title= The Secessionist Insurgency and the Freedom of Minds|last1= Nath|first1= Sunil|year= 2001|website= www.satp.org|publisher= Institute for Conflict Management|access-date= 24 January 2014|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180417020155/http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/publication/faultlines/volume13/Article2.htm|archive-date= 17 April 2018|url-status=live|df= dmy-all}}</ref> After a few initially unsuccessful attempts to gain independence for Assam during the 1850s, anti-colonial Assamese joined and actively supported the ] against the British from the early 20th century, with ] emerging as the preeminent nationalist leader in the Assam Congress.{{citation needed|date=June 2020}} Bordoloi's major political rival in this time was Sir Saidullah, who was representing the ], and had the backing of the influential Muslim cleric ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/publication/faultlines/volume13/Article2.htm |title=The Secessionist Insurgency and the Freedom of Minds |last1=Nath |first1=Sunil |year=2001 |website=www.satp.org |publisher=Institute for Conflict Management|access-date= 24 January 2014|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180417020155/http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/publication/faultlines/volume13/Article2.htm|archive-date= 17 April 2018|url-status=live }}</ref>


The ''Assam Postage Circle'' was established by 1873 under the headship of the Deputy Post Master General.<ref>{{cite web |author=Indian Philatelists Forum |url=http://modernindianphilately.blogspot.in/2011/06/indian-postal-circles.html |title=Glimpses of Modern Indian Philately: INDIAN POSTAL CIRCLES |publisher=Modernindianphilately.blogspot.in |date=4 June 2011 |access-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508223652/http://modernindianphilately.blogspot.in/2011/06/indian-postal-circles.html |archive-date=8 May 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> The ''Assam Postage Circle'' was established by 1873 under the headship of the Deputy Post Master General.<ref>{{cite web |author=Indian Philatelists Forum |url=http://modernindianphilately.blogspot.in/2011/06/indian-postal-circles.html |title=Glimpses of Modern Indian Philately: INDIAN POSTAL CIRCLES |publisher=Modernindianphilately.blogspot.in |date=4 June 2011 |access-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508223652/http://modernindianphilately.blogspot.in/2011/06/indian-postal-circles.html |archive-date=8 May 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>


At the turn of the 20th century, British India consisted of eight provinces that were administered either by a governor or a lieutenant-governor. Assam Province was one among the major eight provinces of British India. The table below shows the major original provinces during British India covering the Assam Province under the Administrative Office of the Chief Commissioner. At the turn of the 20th century, British India consisted of eight provinces that were administered either by a governor or a lieutenant-governor. Assam Province was one among the major eight provinces of British India. The table below shows the major original provinces during British India covering the Assam Province under the Administrative Office of the Chief Commissioner.

The following table lists their areas and populations. It does not include those of the dependent Native States:{{citation needed|date=May 2022}}
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed"
|- style="vertical-align:bottom;"
! Province of British India{{citation needed|date=May 2022}} !! Area (thousands of square miles)!! Population (millions) !! Chief Administrative Officer
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 170 || style="text-align:center;"| 9 || style="text-align:center;"| Lieutenant-Governor
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 151 || style="text-align:center;"| 75 || style="text-align:center;"| Lieutenant-Governor
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 142 || style="text-align:center;"| 38 || style="text-align:center;"| Governor-in-Council
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 123 || style="text-align:center;"| 19 || style="text-align:center;"| Governor-in-Council
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 107 || style="text-align:center;"| 48 || style="text-align:center;"| Lieutenant-Governor
|- style="text-align:center;"
|| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 104 || style="text-align:center;"| 13 || style="text-align:center;"| Chief Commissioner
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 97 || style="text-align:center;"| 20 || style="text-align:center;"| Lieutenant-Governor
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| ] || style="text-align:center;"| 49 || style="text-align:center;"| 6 || style="text-align:center;"| Chief Commissioner
|}


With the partition of India in 1947, Assam became a constituent state of India. The ] of Assam (excluding the Karimganj subdivision) was given up to East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh. With the partition of India in 1947, Assam became a constituent state of India. The ] of Assam (excluding the Karimganj subdivision) was given up to East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh.
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=== Modern history === === Modern history ===
{{See also|Assam separatist movements}} {{See also|Assam separatist movements}}
] ]


The government of India, which has the unilateral powers to change the borders of a state, divided Assam into several states beginning in 1970 within the borders of what was then Assam. In 1963, the Naga Hills district became the 16th state of India under the name of ]. Part of Tuensang was added to Nagaland. In 1970, in response to the demands of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo people of the ], the districts containing the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills were formed into an autonomous state within Assam; in 1972 this became a separate state under the name of Meghalaya. In 1972, Arunachal Pradesh (the ]) and Mizoram (from the Mizo Hills in the south) were separated from Assam as union territories; both became states in 1986.<ref name="Bhattacharyya1995">{{cite book|author=Bhubaneswar Bhattacharyya|title=The troubled border: some facts about boundary disputes between Assam-Nagaland, Assam-Arunachal Pradesh, Assam-Meghalaya, and Assam-Mizoram|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sktuAAAAMAAJ|year=1995|publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall|isbn=9788173310997}}</ref> The government of India, which has the unilateral powers to change the borders of a state, divided Assam into several states beginning in 1970 within the borders of what was then Assam. In 1963, the Naga Hills district became the 16th state of India under the name of ]. Part of Tuensang was added to Nagaland. In 1970, in response to the demands of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo people of the ], the districts containing the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills were formed into an autonomous state within Assam; in 1972 this became a separate state under the name of Meghalaya. In 1972, Arunachal Pradesh (the ]) and Mizoram (from the Mizo Hills in the south) were separated from Assam as union territories; both became states in 1986.<ref name="Bhattacharyya1995">{{cite book |author=Bhubaneswar Bhattacharyya |title=The troubled border: some facts about boundary disputes between Assam-Nagaland, Assam-Arunachal Pradesh, Assam-Meghalaya, and Assam-Mizoram |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sktuAAAAMAAJ |year=1995 |publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall |isbn=9788173310997}}</ref>


Since the restructuring of Assam after independence, communal tensions and violence remain. ] began forming along ethnic lines, and demands for autonomy and sovereignty grew, resulting in the fragmentation of Assam. In 1961, the government of Assam passed legislation making use of the ] compulsory. It was withdrawn later ]. In the 1980s the Brahmaputra valley saw a six-year ]<ref name="Hazarika">{{Citation Since the restructuring of Assam after independence, communal tensions and violence remain. ] began forming along ethnic lines, and demands for autonomy and sovereignty grew, resulting in the fragmentation of Assam. In 1961, the government of Assam passed legislation making use of the ] compulsory. It was withdrawn later ]. In the 1980s the Brahmaputra valley saw a six-year ]<ref name="Hazarika">{{Citation |first=Sanjoy |last=Hazarika |title=Strangers of the Mist |publisher=Penguin Books Australia Ltd. |year=2003 |isbn=0-14-024052-7}}</ref> triggered by the discovery of a sudden rise in registered voters on electoral rolls. It tried to force the government to identify and deport foreigners illegally migrating from neighbouring ] and to provide constitutional, legislative, administrative and cultural safeguards for the indigenous Assamese majority, which they felt was under threat due to the increase of migration from Bangladesh. The agitation ended after an accord (Assam Accord 1985) between its leaders and the Union Government, which remained unimplemented, causing simmering discontent.<ref name="SinhaSKillmig">{{cite web |author=Governor of Assam |title=Report on Illegal Migration into Assam |date=8 November 1998 |url=http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm| access-date =26 May 2007 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070609170339/http://satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm| archive-date= 9 June 2007 | url-status=live}}</ref>
| first = Sanjoy | last = Hazarika
| title = Strangers of the Mist
| publisher = Penguin Books Australia Ltd.
| year = 2003
| isbn = 0-14-024052-7 }}</ref> triggered by the discovery of a sudden rise in registered voters on electoral rolls. It tried to force the government to identify and deport foreigners illegally migrating from neighbouring ] and to provide constitutional, legislative, administrative and cultural safeguards for the indigenous Assamese majority, which they felt was under threat due to the increase of migration from Bangladesh. The agitation ended after an accord (Assam Accord 1985) between its leaders and the Union Government, which remained unimplemented, causing simmering discontent.<ref name="SinhaSKillmig">{{cite web
| author=Governor of Assam
| title = Report on Illegal Migration into Assam
| date = 8 November 1998
| url = http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm
| access-date =26 May 2007 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070609170339/http://satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm| archive-date= 9 June 2007 | url-status=live}}</ref>


The post 1970s experienced the growth of armed separatist groups such as the ] (ULFA)<ref name="Hazarika" /> and the ] (NDFB). In November 1990, the ] deployed the ], after which low-intensity military conflicts and political homicides have been continuing for more than a decade. In recent times, ethnically based militant groups have grown. The ] Act has been applied in Assam, after agitation of the communities due to the sluggish rate of development and general apathy of successive state governments towards Indigenous Assamese communities.{{citation needed|date=November 2015}} The post 1970s experienced the growth of armed separatist groups such as the ] (ULFA)<ref name="Hazarika" /> and the ] (NDFB). In November 1990, the ] deployed the ], after which low-intensity military conflicts and political homicides have been continuing for more than a decade. In recent times, ethnically based militant groups have grown. The ] Act has been applied in Assam, after agitation of the communities due to the sluggish rate of development and general apathy of successive state governments towards Indigenous Assamese communities.{{citation needed|date=November 2015}}


Deadly floods hit the state in ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Reuters |date=2022-05-24 |title=Floods kill 25 in India's Assam, displace thousands |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/floods-kill-25-indias-assam-displace-thousands-2022-05-24/ |access-date=2022-06-03}}</ref> Deadly floods hit the state in ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=24 May 2022 |title=Floods kill 25 in India's Assam, displace thousands |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/floods-kill-25-indias-assam-displace-thousands-2022-05-24/ |access-date=3 June 2022 |archive-date=3 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603053816/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/floods-kill-25-indias-assam-displace-thousands-2022-05-24/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


== Geography == == Geography ==
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{{See also|Tourism in North East India}} {{See also|Tourism in North East India}}


A significant geographical aspect of Assam is that it contains three of six physiographic divisions of India – The Northern Himalayas (Eastern Hills), The Northern Plains (Brahmaputra plain) and Deccan Plateau (Karbi Anglong). As the Brahmaputra flows in Assam the climate here is cold and there is rainfall most of the month. Geomorphic studies conclude that the Brahmaputra, the life-line of Assam, is an ] older than the Himalayas, which has ] since they started rising. The river with steep ] and rapids in Arunachal Pradesh entering Assam, becomes a ] (at times 10&nbsp;mi/16&nbsp;km wide) and with tributaries, creates a flood plain (Brahmaputra Valley: 50–60&nbsp;mi/80–100&nbsp;km wide, 600&nbsp;mi/1000&nbsp;km long).<ref name="RLSinghIndia">{{Citation A significant geographical aspect of Assam is that it contains three of six physiographic divisions of India – The Northern Himalayas (Eastern Hills), The Northern Plains (Brahmaputra plain) and Deccan Plateau (Karbi Anglong). As the Brahmaputra flows in Assam the climate here is cold and there is rainfall most of the month. Geomorphic studies conclude that the Brahmaputra, the life-line of Assam, is an ] older than the Himalayas, which has ] since they started rising. The river with steep ] and rapids in Arunachal Pradesh entering Assam, becomes a ] (at times 10&nbsp;mi/16&nbsp;km wide) and with tributaries, creates a flood plain (Brahmaputra Valley: 50–60&nbsp;mi/80–100&nbsp;km wide, 600&nbsp;mi/1000&nbsp;km long).<ref name="RLSinghIndia">{{Citation |first=R. L. |last=Singh |title=India, A Regional Geography |place=Varanasi, India |publisher=National Geographical Society of India |year=1993}}</ref> The hills of ], ] and those in and close to Guwahati (also Khasi-Garo Hills) now eroded and dissected are originally parts of the South Indian Plateau system.<ref name="RLSinghIndia" /> In the south, the ] originating in the Barail Range (Assam-Nagaland border) flows through the ] with a 25–30&nbsp;miles (40–50&nbsp;km) wide valley and enters Bangladesh with the name ].
| first = R. L. | last = Singh
| title = India, A Regional Geography
| place = Varanasi, India
| publisher = National Geographical Society of India
| year = 1993 }}</ref> The hills of ], ] and those in and close to Guwahati (also Khasi-Garo Hills) now eroded and dissected are originally parts of the South Indian Plateau system.<ref name="RLSinghIndia" /> In the south, the ] originating in the Barail Range (Assam-Nagaland border) flows through the ] with a 25–30&nbsp;miles (40–50&nbsp;km) wide valley and enters Bangladesh with the name ].


Urban centres include ], one of the 100 fastest growing cities in the world.<ref>{{cite news|title=Guwahati's landscape to change with satellite towns, BRT systems|url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jun1610/at036|access-date=4 August 2013|newspaper=The Assam Tribune|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103180934/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jun1610%2Fat036|archive-date=3 November 2013}}</ref> Guwahati is also referred to as the "Gateway to the North-East India". ], (in the Barak valley) is the second most populous city in Assam and an important centre of business. Other large cities include ], an oil and natural gas industry centre,<ref>{{cite web|title=Dibrugarh – Roing – Mayudia – Anini Tourist Circuit |url=http://www.arunachaltourism.com/top5.php |publisher=Arunachal Tourism |access-date=4 August 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130406132625/http://www.arunachaltourism.com/top5.php |archive-date=6 April 2013 }}</ref> Urban centres include ], one of the 100 fastest growing cities in the world.<ref>{{cite news |title=Guwahati's landscape to change with satellite towns, BRT systems |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jun1610/at036|access-date=4 August 2013 |newspaper=The Assam Tribune|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103180934/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=jun1610%2Fat036|archive-date=3 November 2013}}</ref> Guwahati is also referred to as the "Gateway to the North-East India". ], (in the Barak valley) is the second most populous city in Assam and an important centre of business. Other large cities include ], an oil and natural gas industry centre,<ref>{{cite web |title=Dibrugarh – Roing – Mayudia – Anini Tourist Circuit |url=http://www.arunachaltourism.com/top5.php |publisher=Arunachal Tourism |access-date=4 August 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130406132625/http://www.arunachaltourism.com/top5.php |archive-date=6 April 2013}}</ref>


=== Climate === === Climate ===
With the ], Assam is temperate (summer max. at 95–100&nbsp;°F or 35–38&nbsp;°C and winter min. at 43–46&nbsp;°F or 6–8&nbsp;°C) and experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity.<ref name="RLSinghIndia" /><ref>{{cite web With the ], Assam is temperate (summer max. at 95–100&nbsp;°F or 35–38&nbsp;°C and winter min. at 43–46&nbsp;°F or 6–8&nbsp;°C) and experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity.<ref name="RLSinghIndia" /><ref>{{cite web |last=Purdue University |title=The Köppen Classification of Climates |url=http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/tropical/lecture_04/lec_04.html |access-date = 25 May 2007|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070605020325/http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/tropical/lecture_04/lec_04.html |archive-date = 5 June 2007|url-status = dead }}</ref> The climate is characterised by heavy monsoon downpours reducing summer temperatures and affecting foggy nights and mornings in winters, frequent during the afternoons. Spring (March–April) and autumn (September–October) are usually pleasant with moderate rainfall and temperature. Assam's agriculture usually depends on the south-west monsoon rains.
|last = Purdue University
|title = The Köppen Classification of Climates
|url = http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/tropical/lecture_04/lec_04.html
|access-date = 25 May 2007
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070605020325/http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/tropical/lecture_04/lec_04.html
|archive-date = 5 June 2007
|url-status = dead
|df = dmy-all
}}</ref> The climate is characterised by heavy monsoon downpours reducing summer temperatures and affecting foggy nights and mornings in winters, frequent during the afternoons. Spring (March–April) and autumn (September–October) are usually pleasant with moderate rainfall and temperature. Assam's agriculture usually depends on the south-west monsoon rains.


==== Flooding ==== ==== Flooding ====
{{See also|Brahmaputra floods}} {{See also|Brahmaputra floods}}
<!---can move to economy, if not here---> <!---can move to economy, if not here--->
Every year, flooding from the Brahmaputra and other rivers such as Barak River etc. deluges places in Assam. The water levels of the rivers rise because of rainfall resulting in the rivers overflowing their banks and engulfing nearby areas. Apart from houses and livestock being washed away by flood water, bridges, railway tracks, and roads are also damaged by the calamity, which causes communication breakdown in many places. Fatalities are also caused by the natural disaster in many places of the State.<ref name="Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13">{{cite web |url=http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |title=Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13 |publisher=NDTV |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824155525/http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |archive-date=24 August 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Flood situation in Assam worsens">{{cite news|url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/top-headlines/assam-flood-situation-worsens/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121174112/https://www.sentinelassam.com/top-headlines/assam-flood-situation-worsens/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 January 2022 |title=Flood situation in Assam worsens |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref> Every year, rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak overflow due to heavy rainfall, causing widespread flooding across Assam. The rising water levels submerge nearby areas, washing away houses, livestock, and damaging infrastructure such as bridges, railway tracks, and roads, leading to communication breakdowns in many regions. This natural disaster also results in numerous fatalities throughout the state.<ref name="Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13">{{cite web |url=http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |title=Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13 |publisher=NDTV |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824155525/http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |archive-date=24 August 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Flood situation in Assam worsens">{{cite news |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/top-headlines/assam-flood-situation-worsens/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121174112/https://www.sentinelassam.com/top-headlines/assam-flood-situation-worsens/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 January 2022 |title=Flood situation in Assam worsens |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref>


=== Fauna === === Fauna ===
{{See also|Biodiversity of Assam}} {{See also|Biodiversity of Assam}}

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Assam is one of the richest ] zones in the world and consists of tropical ]s,<ref>{{Citation|last=Borthakur |first=Ahir Bhairab |title=Call of the wild |url=http://www.downtoearth.org.in/full6.asp?foldername=20020115&filename=gra&sec_id=11&sid=1 |journal=Down to Earth |date=15 January 2002 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928003319/http://www.downtoearth.org.in/full6.asp?foldername=20020115&filename=gra&sec_id=11&sid=1 |archive-date=28 September 2007 }}</ref> deciduous forests, riverine ],<ref>{{cite web | last1 = Birdlife International, UK | url = http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/asia_strategy/pdf_downloads/grasslandsGO2.pdf | title = Indo-Gangetic Grasslands | access-date = 31 May 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070615001747/http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/asia_strategy/pdf_downloads/grasslandsGO2.pdf | archive-date = 15 June 2007 | url-status=live | df = dmy-all }}</ref> ]<ref>National Mission on Bamboo Applications 2004</ref> orchards and numerous ]<ref>{{Citation|last=Sharma |first=Pradip |title=An Overview on Wetlands in Assam |url=http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf |journal=ENVIS Assam, Assam Science Technology and Environment Council |volume=2 |page=7 |date=April–June 2003 |postscript=. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060520204718/http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf |archive-date=20 May 2006 }}</ref> ecosystems; Many are now protected as national parks and reserved forests. Assam is one of the richest ] zones in the world and consists of tropical ]s,<ref>{{Citation |last=Borthakur |first=Ahir Bhairab |title=Call of the wild |url=http://www.downtoearth.org.in/full6.asp?foldername=20020115&filename=gra&sec_id=11&sid=1 |journal=Down to Earth |date=15 January 2002 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928003319/http://www.downtoearth.org.in/full6.asp?foldername=20020115&filename=gra&sec_id=11&sid=1 |archive-date=28 September 2007}}</ref> deciduous forests, riverine ],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Birdlife International, UK |url=http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/asia_strategy/pdf_downloads/grasslandsGO2.pdf |title=Indo-Gangetic Grasslands | access-date = 31 May 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070615001747/http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/species/asia_strategy/pdf_downloads/grasslandsGO2.pdf | archive-date = 15 June 2007 | url-status=live }}</ref> ]<ref>National Mission on Bamboo Applications 2004</ref> orchards and numerous ]<ref>{{Citation |last=Sharma |first=Pradip |title=An Overview on Wetlands in Assam |url=http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf |journal=ENVIS Assam, Assam Science Technology and Environment Council |volume=2 |page=7 |date=April–June 2003 |postscript=. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060520204718/http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf |archive-date=20 May 2006}}</ref> ecosystems; Many are now protected as national parks and reserved forests.


Assam has wildlife sanctuaries, the most prominent of which are two UNESCO ]<ref>{{cite web | last = World Heritage Centre | first = UNESCO | title = World Heritage List | url = https://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31 | access-date = 30 May 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070606091740/https://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31 | archive-date = 6 June 2007 | url-status=live | df = dmy-all }}</ref>-the ], on the bank of the ], and the ], near the border with Bhutan. The Kaziranga is a refuge for the fast-disappearing Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The state is the last refuge for numerous other endangered and threatened species including the ] or ''deohanh'', ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ]. Threatened species that are extinct in Assam include the ], a critically endangered fish-eating crocodilian, and the ] (which may be extinct worldwide). For the state bird, the white-winged wood duck, Assam is a globally important area.{{clarify|reason=why? Is it threatened or something? What does "globally important" signify?|date=August 2014}}<ref>Choudhury, A.U.(1996) Survey of the white-winged wood duck and the Bengal florican in Tinsukia district & adjacent areas of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The Rhino Foundation for Nature in North East India, Guwahati, India. 82pp+</ref> In addition to the above, there are three other National Parks in Assam namely Dibru Saikhowa National Park, Nameri National Park and the Orang National Park. Assam has wildlife sanctuaries, the most prominent of which are two UNESCO ]<ref>{{cite web |last=World Heritage Centre |first=UNESCO |title=World Heritage List |url=https://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31 | access-date = 30 May 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070606091740/https://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31 | archive-date = 6 June 2007 | url-status=live }}</ref>-the ], on the bank of the ], and the ], near the border with Bhutan. The Kaziranga is a refuge for the fast-disappearing Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The state is the last refuge for numerous other endangered and threatened species including the ] or ''deohanh'', ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ]. Threatened species that are extinct in Assam include the ], a critically endangered fish-eating crocodilian, and the ] (which may be extinct worldwide). For the state bird, the white-winged wood duck, Assam is a globally important area.{{clarify|reason=why? Is it threatened or something? What does "globally important" signify?|date=August 2014}}<ref>Choudhury, A.U.(1996) Survey of the white-winged wood duck and the Bengal florican in Tinsukia district & adjacent areas of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The Rhino Foundation for Nature in North East India, Guwahati, India. 82pp+</ref> In addition to the above, there are three other National Parks in Assam namely Dibru Saikhowa National Park, Nameri National Park and the Orang National Park.


Assam has conserved the one-horned ] from near extinction, along with the ], tiger and numerous species of birds, and it provides one of the last wild habitats for the ]. ] and ] are both ]. The state contains ] forests and forest products, much depleted from earlier times.<!---maybe should be in history---> A land of high rainfall, Assam displays greenery. The Brahmaputra River tributaries and ]s provide the region with hydro-] environment.{{citation needed|date=March 2015}} Assam has conserved the one-horned ] from near extinction, along with the ], tiger and numerous species of birds, and it provides one of the last wild habitats for the ]. ] and ] are both ]. The state contains ] forests and forest products, much depleted from earlier times.<!---maybe should be in history---> A land of high rainfall, Assam displays greenery. The Brahmaputra River tributaries and ]s provide the region with hydro-] environment.{{citation needed|date=March 2015}}
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=== Flora === === Flora ===
Assam is remarkably rich in ] species and the ] is the state flower of Assam.<ref>{{Cite journal| last = ENVIS Assam| title = Endemic Orchids of Assam| url = http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf| journal = ENVIS Assam, Assam Science Technology and Environment Council| volume = 2| page = 8| date = April–June 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060520204718/http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf|archive-date=20 May 2006 }}</ref> The recently established Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park boasts more than 500 of the estimated 1,314 orchid species found in India. Assam is remarkably rich in ] species and the ] is the state flower of Assam.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=ENVIS Assam |title=Endemic Orchids of Assam |url=http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf |journal=ENVIS Assam, Assam Science Technology and Environment Council |volume=2 |page=8 |date=April–June 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060520204718/http://www.envisassam.org/VOL2_2.pdf|archive-date=20 May 2006}}</ref> The recently established Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park boasts more than 500 of the estimated 1,314 orchid species found in India.


=== Geology === === Geology ===
Assam has ], natural gas, coal, ] and other minor minerals such as ], ], ]s, ] and ].<ref name="NEDFiNICminerals">{{cite web|last=NEDFi & NIC-Assam |title=North East India Databank |url=http://nerdatabank.nic.in/as_minerals.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070418204719/http://www.nerdatabank.nic.in/as_minerals.htm |archive-date=18 April 2007 }}</ref> A small quantity of iron ore is available in western districts.<ref name="NEDFiNICminerals" /> Discovered in 1889, all the major petroleum-gas reserves are in Upper parts. A recent ] estimate shows {{convert|399|Moilbbl|m3}} of oil, {{convert|1178|Gcuft|m3}} of gas and {{convert|67|Moilbbl|m3}} of natural gas liquids in the Assam Geologic Province.<ref>Wandrey 2004, p. 17</ref>{{citation needed|reason=USGS is stated as source, but secondary source given here, which is "okay" but should probably be enhanced with primary one as well|date=August 2014}} Assam has ], natural gas, coal, ] and other minor minerals such as ], ], ]s, ] and ].<ref name="NEDFiNICminerals">{{cite web |last=NEDFi & NIC-Assam |title=North East India Databank |url=http://nerdatabank.nic.in/as_minerals.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070418204719/http://www.nerdatabank.nic.in/as_minerals.htm |archive-date=18 April 2007}}</ref> A small quantity of iron ore is available in western districts.<ref name="NEDFiNICminerals" /> Discovered in 1889, all the major petroleum-gas reserves are in Upper parts. A recent ] estimate shows {{convert|399|Moilbbl|m3}} of oil, {{convert|1178|Gcuft|m3}} of gas and {{convert|67|Moilbbl|m3}} of ] in the Assam Geologic Province.<ref>Wandrey 2004, p. 17</ref>{{citation needed|reason=USGS is stated as source, but secondary source given here, which is "okay" but should probably be enhanced with primary one as well|date=August 2014}}


The region is prone to natural disasters like annual floods and frequent mild earthquakes. Strong earthquakes were recorded in 1869, ], and ]. The region is prone to natural disasters like annual floods and frequent mild earthquakes. Strong earthquakes were recorded in 1869, ], and ].


== Demographics == == Demographics ==
{{Main|Assamese people|People of Assam}} {{Main|Demography of Assam|Assamese people|Assamese Manipuri people|People of Assam}}
{{cleanup|reason=too long|date=August 2019}}


=== Population === === Population ===
]
{{Historical population {{Historical population
| source = ]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/PCA/A2_Data_Table.html |title=Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India |website=www.censusindia.gov.in |access-date=12 January 2020}}</ref> | source = ]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/PCA/A2_Data_Table.html |title=A - 2 DECADAL VARIATION IN POPULATION SINCE 1901 |publisher= Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India |access-date=12 January 2020 |archive-date=8 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190808131957/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/PCA/A2_Data_Table.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
| 1901 | 3289680 | 1901 | 3289680
| 1911 | 3848617 | 1911 | 3848617
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}} }}
] for the ]]] ] for the ]]]
The total population of Assam was 26.66&nbsp;million with 4.91&nbsp;million households in 2001.<ref name="GoAStats">{{cite web |last=Government of Assam 2002–03 |title=Statistics of Assam |url=http://www.assamgov.org/generalinformation/assamstatistics.html |access-date = 3 June 2007|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070607170354/http://assamgov.org/generalinformation/assamstatistics.html |archive-date = 7 June 2007|url-status = dead }}</ref> Higher population concentration was recorded in the districts of ], ], ], ], ], ], and ]. Assam's population was estimated at 28.67&nbsp;million in 2006 and at 30.57&nbsp;million in 2011
The total population of Assam was 26.66&nbsp;million with 4.91&nbsp;million households in 2001.<ref name="GoAStats">{{cite web
and is expected to reach 34.18&nbsp; million by 2021 and 35.60&nbsp;million by 2026.<ref>{{cite web |author=National Commission on Population, Census of India |title=Population Projections for India and States 2001–2026 |year=2006 |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in| access-date =15 May 2007 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070514045222/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/| archive-date= 14 May 2007 | url-status=live}}</ref>
|last = Government of Assam 2002–03
|title = Statistics of Assam
|url = http://www.assamgov.org/generalinformation/assamstatistics.html
|access-date = 3 June 2007
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070607170354/http://assamgov.org/generalinformation/assamstatistics.html
|archive-date = 7 June 2007
|url-status = dead
|df = dmy-all
}}</ref> Higher population concentration was recorded in the districts of ], ], ], ], ], ], and ]. Assam's population was estimated at 28.67&nbsp;million in 2006 and at 30.57&nbsp;million in 2011
and is expected to reach 34.18&nbsp; million by 2021 and 35.60&nbsp;million by 2026.<ref>{{cite web
| author=National Commission on Population, Census of India
| title = Population Projections for India and States 2001–2026
| year = 2006
| url = http://www.censusindia.gov.in
| access-date =15 May 2007 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070514045222/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/| archive-date= 14 May 2007 | url-status=live}}</ref>


As per the 2011 census, the total population of Assam was 31,169,272. The total population of the state has increased from 26,638,407 to 31,169,272 in the last ten years with a growth rate of 16.93%.<ref name="AsCensus">{{cite web As per the 2011 census, the total population of Assam was 31,169,272. The total population of the state has increased from 26,638,407 to 31,169,272 in the last ten years with a growth rate of 16.93%.<ref name="AsCensus">{{cite web |last=Government of Assam Census 2011 |title=onlineassam |url=http://online.assam.gov.in/web/population-census/| access-date = 6 June 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120621011519/http://online.assam.gov.in/web/population-census| archive-date = 21 June 2012| url-status=dead }}</ref>
| last = Government of Assam Census 2011
| title = onlineassam
| url = http://online.assam.gov.in/web/population-census/
| access-date = 6 June 2012
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120621011519/http://online.assam.gov.in/web/population-census
| archive-date = 21 June 2012
| url-status=dead
| df = dmy-all
}}</ref>


Of the 33 districts, eight districts registered a rise in the decadal population growth rate. Religious minority-dominated districts like ], ], ], ], ], and ], recorded growth rates ranging from 20 per cent to 24 per cent during the last decade. Eastern Assamese districts, including ] and ], registered around 9 per cent population growth. These districts do not have any international border.<ref>{{cite web Of the 33 districts, ], ], ], ], ], and ], recorded growth rates ranging from 20 per cent to 24 per cent during the last decade, whereas ] and ], registered around 9 per cent population growth. These districts do not have any international border.<ref>{{cite web |last=cdpsindia |title=centre for development and peace studies |url=http://cdpsindia.org/point-of-view60.asp| access-date = 6 June 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121021210551/http://cdpsindia.org/point-of-view60.asp| archive-date = 21 October 2012| url-status=live }}</ref>
| last = cdpsindia
| title = centre for development and peace studies
| url = http://cdpsindia.org/point-of-view60.asp
| access-date = 6 June 2012
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121021210551/http://cdpsindia.org/point-of-view60.asp
| archive-date = 21 October 2012
| url-status=live
| df = dmy-all
}}</ref>


]
In 2011, the ] rate in the state was 73.18%. The male literacy rate was 78.81% and the female literacy rate was 67.27%.<ref name="AsCensus" /> In 2001, the census had recorded literacy in Assam at 63.3% with male literacy at 71.3% and female at 54.6%. The urbanisation rate was recorded at 12.9%.<ref>Director of Census Operations, Census of India 2001</ref> In 2011, the ] rate in the state was 73.18%. The male literacy rate was 78.81% and the female literacy rate was 67.27%.<ref name="AsCensus" /> In 2001, the census had recorded literacy in Assam at 63.3% with male literacy at 71.3% and female at 54.6%. The urbanisation rate was recorded at 12.9%.<ref>Director of Census Operations, Census of India 2001</ref>


The growth of population in Assam has increased since the middle decades of the 20th century. The population grew from 3.29&nbsp;million in 1901 to 6.70&nbsp;million in 1941. It increased to 14.63&nbsp;million in 1971 and 22.41&nbsp;million in 1991.<ref name="GoAStats" /> The growth in the ] and ] was high primarily due to the influx of people from ], now Bangladesh.<ref name="SinhaSKillmig" /> The growth of population in Assam has increased since the middle decades of the 20th century. The population grew from 3.29&nbsp;million in 1901 to 6.70&nbsp;million in 1941. It increased to 14.63&nbsp;million in 1971 and 22.41&nbsp;million in 1991.<ref name="GoAStats" /> The growth in the ] and ] was high primarily due to the influx of large number of illegal immigrants from ], now Bangladesh.<ref name="SinhaSKillmig" />


The mistrust and clashes between indigenous Assamese people and ] started as early as 1952,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Muslim-Bodo-mistrust-exists-for-many-decades/articleshow/15115081.cms?referral=PM |title=Muslim-Bodo mistrust exists for many decades |work=The Times of India |date=24 July 2012 |access-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017031311/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Muslim-Bodo-mistrust-exists-for-many-decades/articleshow/15115081.cms?referral=PM |archive-date=17 October 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-govt-mulls-arming-Muslims-in-Bodo-areas/articleshow/34650259.cms |title=Assam govt mulls arming Muslims in Bodo areas |work=The Times of India |date=5 May 2014 |access-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140505021416/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-govt-mulls-arming-Muslims-in-Bodo-areas/articleshow/34650259.cms |archive-date=5 May 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> but is rooted in ] of the 1940s.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Andre|first1=Aletta|last2=Kumar|first2=Abhimanyu|title=Protest poetry: Assam's Bengali Muslims take a stand|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2016/12/protest-poetry-assam-bengali-muslims-stand-161219094434005.html|access-date=26 January 2017|agency=]|publisher=]|date=23 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202060836/http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2016/12/protest-poetry-assam-bengali-muslims-stand-161219094434005.html|archive-date=2 February 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> At least 77 people died<ref name=IBNLive>{{cite web |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/assam-violence-four-more-bodies-found-toll-rises-to-77/1038364.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126114936/http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/assam-violence-four-more-bodies-found-toll-rises-to-77/1038364.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=26 January 2013 |title=Assam violence: Four more bodies found, toll rises to 77 |date=8 August 2012 |work=IBN |access-date=2 November 2013}}</ref> and 400,000 people were displaced in the ] between indigenous ] and ].<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/29/world/asia/after-tensions-in-indias-east-turn-deadly-claims-officials-turned-a-blind-eye.html?_r=1 | title=As Tensions in India Turn Deadly, Some Say Officials Ignored Warning Signs | newspaper=The New York Times | date=28 July 2012 | first=Gardiner | last=Harris | access-date=26 February 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301183316/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/29/world/asia/after-tensions-in-indias-east-turn-deadly-claims-officials-turned-a-blind-eye.html?_r=1 | archive-date=1 March 2017 | url-status=live | df=dmy-all }}</ref> The mistrust and clashes between indigenous Assamese people and ] started as early as 1952,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Muslim-Bodo-mistrust-exists-for-many-decades/articleshow/15115081.cms?referral=PM |title=Muslim-Bodo mistrust exists for many decades |work=The Times of India |date=24 July 2012 |access-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017031311/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/Muslim-Bodo-mistrust-exists-for-many-decades/articleshow/15115081.cms?referral=PM |archive-date=17 October 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-govt-mulls-arming-Muslims-in-Bodo-areas/articleshow/34650259.cms |title=Assam govt mulls arming Muslims in Bodo areas |work=The Times of India |date=5 May 2014 |access-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140505021416/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Assam-govt-mulls-arming-Muslims-in-Bodo-areas/articleshow/34650259.cms |archive-date=5 May 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> but is rooted in ] of the 1940s.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Andre |first1=Aletta |last2=Kumar |first2=Abhimanyu |title=Protest poetry: Assam's Bengali Muslims take a stand |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2016/12/protest-poetry-assam-bengali-muslims-stand-161219094434005.html|access-date=26 January 2017 |agency=] |publisher=] |date=23 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202060836/http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2016/12/protest-poetry-assam-bengali-muslims-stand-161219094434005.html|archive-date=2 February 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> At least 77 people died<ref name=IBNLive>{{cite web |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/assam-violence-four-more-bodies-found-toll-rises-to-77/1038364.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126114936/http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/assam-violence-four-more-bodies-found-toll-rises-to-77/1038364.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=26 January 2013 |title=Assam violence: Four more bodies found, toll rises to 77 |date=8 August 2012 |work=IBN |access-date=2 November 2013}}</ref> and 400,000 people were displaced in the ] between indigenous ] and ].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/29/world/asia/after-tensions-in-indias-east-turn-deadly-claims-officials-turned-a-blind-eye.html?_r=1 |title=As Tensions in India Turn Deadly, Some Say Officials Ignored Warning Signs |newspaper=The New York Times |date=28 July 2012 |first=Gardiner |last=Harris | access-date=26 February 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301183316/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/29/world/asia/after-tensions-in-indias-east-turn-deadly-claims-officials-turned-a-blind-eye.html?_r=1 | archive-date=1 March 2017 | url-status=live }}</ref>


The People of India project has studied 115 of the ethnic groups in Assam. 79 (69%) identify themselves regionally, 22 (19%) locally, and 3 trans-nationally. The earliest settlers were ], ] followed by ], ], and ] people.<ref>Taher, Mohammad (1993) ''The Peopling of Assam and contemporary social structure'' in Ahmad, Aijazuddin (ed) Social Structure and Regional Development, Rawat Publications, New Delhi</ref> Forty-five languages are spoken by different communities, including three major language families: Austroasiatic (5), ] (24) and ] (12). Three of the spoken languages do not fall in these families. There is a high degree of ].{{citation needed|reason="high" is essentially a meaningless word. 90%? 15%?|date=November 2015}} The People of India project has studied 115 of the ethnic groups in Assam. 79 (69%) identify themselves regionally, 22 (19%) locally, and 3 trans-nationally. The earliest settlers were ], ] followed by ], ], and ] people.<ref>Taher, Mohammad (1993) ''The Peopling of Assam and contemporary social structure'' in Ahmad, Aijazuddin (ed) Social Structure and Regional Development, Rawat Publications, New Delhi</ref> Forty-five languages are spoken by different communities, including three major language families: Austroasiatic (5), ] (24) and ] (12). Three of the spoken languages do not fall in these families. There is a high degree of ].{{citation needed|reason="high" is essentially a meaningless word. 90%? 15%?|date=November 2015}}


=== Religions === === Religions ===
]]]
{{See also|Hinduism in Assam|Islam in Assam|Christianity in Assam|Ahom religion}} {{See also|Hinduism in Assam|Islam in Assam|Christianity in Assam|Ahom religion}}
]]]
], ]]]

{{Pie chart {{Pie chart
|thumb = right |thumb = right
|caption = Religion in Assam (2011)<ref name="census2011">{{cite web|title=Population by religion community – 2011|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|website=Census of India, 2012|publisher=The Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150825155850/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|archive-date=25 August 2015}}</ref> |caption = Religion in Assam (2011)<ref name="census2011">{{cite web |title=Population by religion community – 2011 |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS |website=Census of India, 2012 |publisher=The Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150825155850/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW00C-01%20MDDS.XLS|archive-date=25 August 2015}}</ref>
|label1 = ]|color1 =darkorange |label1 = ]|color1 =darkorange
|value1 = 61.47 |value1 = 61.47
Line 365: Line 328:
|label3 = ]|color3 = blue |label3 = ]|color3 = blue
|value3 = 3.74 |value3 = 3.74
|label4 = ]|color4 = Gold |label4 = ]|color4 = yellow
|value4 = 0.18 |value4 = 0.18
|label7 = ]|color7 = Brown |label7 = ]|color7 = Pink
|value7 = 0.08 |value7 = 0.08
|label8 = ]|color8 = DarkKhaki |label8 = ]|color8 = DarkKhaki
|value8 = 0.07 |value8 = 0.07
|label6 = ]|color6 = pink |label6 = ]|color6 = red
|value6 = 0.09 |value6 = 0.09
|label5 = ]|color5 = Black |label5 = ]|color5 = Black
Line 378: Line 341:
}} }}
] in ].]] ] in ].]]
According to the ], 61.47% were ], 34.22% were ]s.<ref name="census2011" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/census-2011-religion-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/article1-1384347.aspx|title=Census 2011 data rekindles 'demographic invasion' fear in Assam|access-date=26 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905104547/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/census-2011-religion-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/article1-1384347.aspx|archive-date=5 September 2015|url-status=dead|date=26 August 2015}}</ref> Christian minorities (3.7%) are found among the Scheduled Tribe and Castes population.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers-say/article7582284.ece|title=India's religions by numbers|date=26 August 2015|access-date=5 August 2016|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110201326/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers-say/article7582284.ece|archive-date=10 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The Scheduled Tribe population in Assam is around 13%, of which Bodos account for 40%.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/bodo-hopes-and-minority-rights/article5998693.ece|title=Bodos and their rights|access-date=29 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201092705/http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/bodo-hopes-and-minority-rights/article5998693.ece|archive-date=1 December 2016|url-status=live|newspaper=The Hindu|date=12 May 2014|last1=Deka|first1=Kaustubh}}</ref> Other religions followed include ] (0.1%), ] (0.2%), ] (0.1%) and ] (amongst ], ], ] etc. communities). Many Hindus in Assam are followers of the ] sect of ], which gave rise to ], designed to be simpler places of worship than traditional Hindu temples.{{citation needed|date=August 2015}} According to the ], 61.47% were ], 34.22% were ]s.<ref name="census2011" /><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/census-2011-religion-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/article1-1384347.aspx |title=Census 2011 data rekindles 'demographic invasion' fear in Assam|access-date=26 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905104547/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/census-2011-religion-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/article1-1384347.aspx|archive-date=5 September 2015|url-status=dead |date=26 August 2015}}</ref> Christian minorities (3.7%) are found among the Scheduled Tribe and Castes population.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers-say/article7582284.ece |title=India's religions by numbers |date=26 August 2015|access-date=5 August 2016 |newspaper=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110201326/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/religious-communities-census-2011-what-the-numbers-say/article7582284.ece|archive-date=10 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The Scheduled Tribe population in Assam is around 13%, of which Bodos account for 40%.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/bodo-hopes-and-minority-rights/article5998693.ece |title=Bodos and their rights|access-date=29 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201092705/http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/bodo-hopes-and-minority-rights/article5998693.ece|archive-date=1 December 2016|url-status=live |newspaper=The Hindu |date=12 May 2014 |last1=Deka |first1=Kaustubh}}</ref> Other religions followed include ] (0.1%), ] (0.2%), ] (0.1%) and ] (among ], ], ] etc. communities).

The three popular sects of Hinduism, namely, ], ], and ] are prevalent here. Many Assamese Hindus are also followers of the ] sect of ].{{citation needed|date=August 2015}}


{| class="wikitable" {| class="wikitable"
|+ ''Assam's Religious diversity as of the 2011 census''<ref>{{cite web| url = https://censusindia.gov.in| title = Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India}}</ref> |+ ''Assam's Religious diversity as of the 2011 census''<ref name="Census of India Website : Office of">{{cite web |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/ |title=Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India |access-date=11 October 2020 |archive-date=3 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603015649/https://censusindia.gov.in/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|- |-
! Religion ! Religion
Line 414: Line 379:
|} |}


Out of 32 districts of Assam, 9 are Muslim majority according to the 2011 census of India. The districts are Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, Morigaon, Nagaon, Karimganj, Hailakandi, Darrang and Bongaigaon.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-majority-districts-in-Assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms|title=Muslim majority districts in Assam up|website=]|access-date=23 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104231940/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-majority-districts-in-Assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms|archive-date=4 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/assam-muslim-growth-is-higher-in-districts-away-from-border/|title=Assam Muslim growth is higher in districts away from border|access-date=23 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223192413/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/assam-muslim-growth-is-higher-in-districts-away-from-border/|archive-date=23 December 2015|url-status=live|date=31 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/census-2011-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/story-oZUhBaXPNupGBmGQirjV0I.html|title=Census 2011 data rekindles 'demographic invasion' fear in Assam|access-date=23 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104231940/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/census-2011-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/story-oZUhBaXPNupGBmGQirjV0I.html|archive-date=4 January 2016|url-status=live|date=26 August 2015}}</ref> Out of 32 districts of Assam, 9 are ] majority according to the 2011 census of India. The districts are ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-majority-districts-in-Assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms |title=Muslim majority districts in Assam up |website=]|date=26 August 2015 |access-date=23 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104231940/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-majority-districts-in-Assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms|archive-date=4 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/assam-muslim-growth-is-higher-in-districts-away-from-border/ |title=Assam Muslim growth is higher in districts away from border|access-date=23 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223192413/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/assam-muslim-growth-is-higher-in-districts-away-from-border/|archive-date=23 December 2015|url-status=live |date=31 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/census-2011-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/story-oZUhBaXPNupGBmGQirjV0I.html |title=Census 2011 data rekindles 'demographic invasion' fear in Assam|access-date=23 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104231940/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/census-2011-data-rekindles-demographic-invasion-fear-in-assam/story-oZUhBaXPNupGBmGQirjV0I.html|archive-date=4 January 2016|url-status=live |date=26 August 2015}}</ref>


=== Languages === === Languages ===
{{See also|Assamese language|Assamese literature|Bengali language|Bodo language}} {{See also|Assamese language|Assamese literature|Bengali language|Bodo language|Meitei language in Assam}}

] ]


{{Pie chart {{Pie chart
| thumb = right | thumb = right
| caption = Languages of Assam (2011)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011Census/Language-2011/Part-A.pdf | title=Distribution of the 22 scheduled languages-India/States/Union Territories - 2011 census |access-date=23 August 2021 |publisher=]}}</ref> | caption = Languages of Assam (2011)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011Census/Language-2011/Part-A.pdf |title=Distribution of the 22 scheduled languages-India/States/Union Territories - 2011 census |access-date=23 August 2021 |publisher=] |archive-date=11 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011091053/https://censusindia.gov.in/2011Census/Language-2011/Part-A.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
| label1 = ] | value1 = 48.38 | color1 = gold | label1 = ] | value1 = 48.38 | color1 = purple
| label2 = ] | value2 = 28.92 | color2 = saddlebrown | label2 = ] | value2 = 28.92 | color2 = orchid
| label3 = ] | value3 = 4.51 | color3 = royalblue | label3 = ] | value3 = 4.51 | color3 = royalblue
| label4 = ] | value4 = 3.21 | color4 = orange | label4 = ] | value4 = 3.21 | color4 = orange
| label5 = ] | value5 = 2.29 | color5 = red | label5 = ] | value5 = 2.29 | color5 = burlywood
| label6 = ] | value6 = 1.98 | color6 = darkorchid | label6 = ] | value6 = 1.98 | color6 = lightskyblue
| label7 = ] | value7 = 1.91 | color7 = pink | label7 = ] | value7 = 1.91 | color7 = lightcoral
| label8 = ] | value8 = 1.64 | color8 = darkblue | label8 = ] | value8 = 1.64 | color8 = darkblue
| label9 = Others | value9 = 7.16 | color9 = Grey | label9 = Others | value9 = 7.16 | color9 = Grey
}} }}


] and ] are the official languages of the state, while ] is official in the three districts of ],<ref name="BodoOff"/><ref name="BnOff"/> where ] is most commonly spoken.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ethnologue.com/language/syl|title=Sylheti|publisher=Ethnologue|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313092352/https://www.ethnologue.com/language/syl|archive-date=13 March 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> ] and ] are the official languages of the state, ] (]) is official in ] and all the three districts of ], while ] is official in the three districts of ],<ref name="BodoOff">{{cite news |last1=PTI |title=Assam Assembly Accords Associate Official Language Status To Bodo |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-assembly-accords-associate-official-language-status-to-bodo-2345750 |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=NDTV |date=30 December 2020 |archive-date=21 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220221093623/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-assembly-accords-associate-official-language-status-to-bodo-2345750 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="BnOff">{{Cite news |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/govt-withdraws-assamese-as-official-language-from-barak-valley-114090901180_1.html |title=Govt withdraws Assamese as official language from Barak valley |agency=Press Trust of India |date=9 September 2014 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=29 January 2018 |archive-date=29 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129195116/http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/govt-withdraws-assamese-as-official-language-from-barak-valley-114090901180_1.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Meitei">{{Cite news |last=Purkayastha |first=Biswa Kalyan |date=24 February 2024 |title=Assam recognises Manipuri as associate official language in four districts |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/assam-recognises-manipuri-as-associate-official-language-in-four-districts-101708770769105.html |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=26 February 2024 |archive-date=25 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225153123/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/assam-recognises-manipuri-as-associate-official-language-in-four-districts-101708770769105.html |url-status=live }}</ref> where ] is most commonly spoken.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ethnologue.com/language/syl |title=Sylheti |publisher=Ethnologue|access-date=12 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313092352/https://www.ethnologue.com/language/syl|archive-date=13 March 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable" {| class="wikitable"
|+ '''Assam linguistic diversity as per (2011 census)'''<ref>{{cite web| url = https://censusindia.gov.in/| title = Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India}}</ref> |+ '''Assam linguistic diversity as per (2011 census)'''<ref name="Census of India Website : Office of"/>
|- |-
! Language ! Language
Line 472: Line 438:
| 31,205,576 | 31,205,576
|} |}
]
According to the language census of 2011 in Assam, out of a total population of around 31 million, Assamese is spoken by more than 22 million total speakers, with more than 15 million people speaking it as their ] and around 7 million as ].<ref name="Government of India">{{cite web |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-17.html |title=C-17 POPULATION BY BILINGUALISM AND TRILINGUALISM |first=Ministry of Home Affairs |last=Government of India |access-date=23 August 2021 |archive-date=13 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191113211224/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-17.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Although the number of speakers is growing, the percentage of Assam's population who have it as a mother tongue has fallen slightly. Assamese serves as ''lingua franca'' of the region<ref>"Axomiya is the major language spoken in Assam, and serves almost as a lingua franca among the different speech communities in the whole area." {{harvcol|Goswami|2003|pp=394}}</ref> as it is spoken by over 71% of the population (including the one who have listed Assamese as their ],<ref name="Government of India"/> while 48.38% of them speak it as their mother tongue.<ref name=2011census>{{cite web |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011Census/Language-2011/Statement-1.pdf |title=Scheduled Languages in descending order of speaker's strength - 2011 |access-date=23 August 2021 |publisher=] |archive-date=14 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114073426/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011Census/Language-2011/Statement-1.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> According to the 24th Edition of ], Assamese is spoken by 15,327,990 persons as mother tongue across the world as of 2021.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ethnologue.com/language/asm |title=Assamese |access-date=22 August 2021 |archive-date=24 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224190334/https://www.ethnologue.com/language/asm |url-status=live }}</ref> However, ] results, have found that 10 million people speaks Assamese as their mother tongue in Assam, which is significantly fewer than the census result of 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.india.com/news/india/assam-assembly-elections-2016-assamese-are-minority-muslims-are-largest-electoral-group-in-this-poll-battle-1093774/ |title=Assam Assembly Elections 2016: Assamese are minority, Muslims are largest electoral group in this poll battle! |date=8 April 2016 |access-date=19 July 2021 |archive-date=27 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210627233152/https://www.india.com/news/india/assam-assembly-elections-2016-assamese-are-minority-muslims-are-largest-electoral-group-in-this-poll-battle-1093774/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Assamese speakers constituted 48% of the State population according to the 2011 Census.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://assamtribune.com/assamese-speakers-in-assam-an-insecure-future/ |title=Assamese speakers in Assam: An insecure future? |date=10 April 2021 |access-date=20 July 2021 |archive-date=29 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629010339/https://assamtribune.com/assamese-speakers-in-assam-an-insecure-future/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/asam-sahitya-sabha-gives-government-two-month-ultimatum-on-use-of-assamese/articleshow/65115339.cms |title=Assamese language: Asam Sahitya Sabha gives government two-month ultimatum on use of Assamese &#124; Guwahati News |website=] |date=24 July 2018 |access-date=20 July 2021 |archive-date=20 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720160642/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/asam-sahitya-sabha-gives-government-two-month-ultimatum-on-use-of-assamese/articleshow/65115339.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/asam-sahitya-sabha-ajmal-foundation-prod-on-assamese/cid/1739350 |title=Sabha, Ajmal prod on Assamese |access-date=20 July 2021 |archive-date=20 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720160642/https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/asam-sahitya-sabha-ajmal-foundation-prod-on-assamese/cid/1739350 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/take-action-against-chalo-paltai-propagators-sabha-tells-government/articleshow/69672729.cms |title=Take action against 'Chalo Paltai' propagators, Sabha tells government &#124; Guwahati News |website=] |date=6 June 2019 |access-date=20 July 2021 |archive-date=20 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720160645/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/take-action-against-chalo-paltai-propagators-sabha-tells-government/articleshow/69672729.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>


])]]
According to the language census of 2011 in Assam, out of a total population of around 31 million, Assamese is spoken by more than 22 million total speakers, with more than 15 million people speaking it as their ] and around 7 million as ].<ref name="Government of India">{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-17.html|title=C-17 POPULATION BY BILINGUALISM AND TRILINGUALISM|first=Ministry of Home Affairs|last=Government of India|access-date=23 August 2021}}</ref> Although the number of speakers is growing, the percentage of Assam's population who have it as a mother tongue has fallen slightly. Assamese serves as ''lingua franca'' of the region<ref>"Axomiya is the major language spoken in Assam, and serves almost as a lingua franca among the different speech communities in the whole area." {{harvcol|Goswami|2003|pp=394}}</ref> as it is spoken by over 71% of the population (including the one who have listed Assamese as their ],<ref name="Government of India"/> while 48.38% of them speak it as their ].<ref name=2011census>{{cite web |url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011Census/Language-2011/Statement-1.pdf | title=Scheduled Languages in descending order of speaker's strength - 2011 |access-date=23 August 2021 |publisher=]}}</ref> According to the 24th Edition of ], Assamese is spoken by 15,327,990 persons as ] across the world as of 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ethnologue.com/language/asm|title=Assamese}}</ref> However, ] results, have found that 10 million people speaks Assamese as their mother tongue in Assam, which is significantly fewer than the census result of 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.india.com/news/india/assam-assembly-elections-2016-assamese-are-minority-muslims-are-largest-electoral-group-in-this-poll-battle-1093774/|title = Assam Assembly Elections 2016: Assamese are minority, Muslims are largest electoral group in this poll battle!|date = 8 April 2016}}</ref> Furthermore, the Assamese speakers constituted 48% of the State population according to the 2011 Census, and it is predicted that by 2021 Census (currently under way) will reveal the percentage to dip lower below 40%.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://assamtribune.com/assamese-speakers-in-assam-an-insecure-future/|title = Assamese speakers in Assam: An insecure future?|date = 10 April 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/asam-sahitya-sabha-gives-government-two-month-ultimatum-on-use-of-assamese/articleshow/65115339.cms|title = Assamese language: Asam Sahitya Sabha gives government two-month ultimatum on use of Assamese &#124; Guwahati News - Times of India|website = ]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/asam-sahitya-sabha-ajmal-foundation-prod-on-assamese/cid/1739350|title = Sabha, Ajmal prod on Assamese}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/take-action-against-chalo-paltai-propagators-sabha-tells-government/articleshow/69672729.cms|title = Take action against 'Chalo Paltai' propagators, Sabha tells government &#124; Guwahati News - Times of India|website = ]}}</ref>


The various ] dialects and closely related languages are spoken by around 9 million people in Assam, and the portion of the population that speaks these languages has grown slightly as per the census. However, the number of Bengali speakers is estimated to be more than the expected census results, as out of 35% Muslim population in Assam as per 2011 census, it is being reported that 30% or say 10 million of them speaks different dialects of ] as their native language but during census enumeration, they (]) have reported their mother tongue as ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indigenous-muslims-agreed-on-checking-population-assam-chief-minister-2479078|title = "Indigenous Muslims Agreed on Checking Population": Assam Chief Minister}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/city/guwahati/declare-assamese-our-mother-tongue/articleshow/7438577.cms|title=Declare Assamese our mother tongue &#124; Guwahati News - Times of India|website=]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Saikia|first=Arunabh|title=A new generation of 'Miya' Muslims in Assam may vote for Congress-AIUDF – but only out of compulsion|url=https://scroll.in/article/991174/a-new-generation-of-miya-muslims-in-assam-may-vote-for-congress-aiudf-but-only-out-of-compulsion|access-date=16 July 2021|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Samrat|title=National Register of Citizens: Identity issue haunts Assam, again|url=https://www.newslaundry.com/2018/01/08/national-register-of-citizens-identity-assam-immigrants|access-date=16 July 2021|website=Newslaundry}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.alterinter.org/?The-Economic-Basis-of-Assam-s-Linguistic-Politics-and-Anti-Immigrant-Movements|title = The Economic Basis of Assam's Linguistic Politics and Anti-Immigrant Movements}}</ref> Assam also has a large number of Bengali Hindu population as according to government data, It is being reported that 7.5 million ] live in Assam, thus constituting 25% of the state population as per 2011 census report.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.thenewsweb.in/india/bengali-speaking-voters-may-prove-crucial-in-the-second-phase-of-assam-poll/| title = Reference at www.thenewsweb.in| date = April 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://milaap.org/fundraisers/help-hindu-bengalis-nrc| title = Help Hindu Bengalis in Assam to save them from becoming refugee again {{!}} Milaap}}</ref> ] is the third most-spoken language followed by ] which comes under fourth position. The various ] dialects and closely related languages are spoken by around 9 million people in Assam, and the portion of the population that speaks these languages has grown slightly as per the census. However, the number of Bengali speakers is estimated to be more than the expected census results, as 30% of the of 35% Muslim population in Assam as per 2011 are thought to speak different dialects of Bengali as their native language but during census enumeration, they have reported their mother tongue as ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indigenous-muslims-agreed-on-checking-population-assam-chief-minister-2479078 |title="Indigenous Muslims Agreed on Checking Population": Assam Chief Minister |access-date=19 July 2021 |archive-date=19 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719141439/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indigenous-muslims-agreed-on-checking-population-assam-chief-minister-2479078 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/declare-assamese-our-mother-tongue/articleshow/7438577.cms |title=Declare Assamese our mother tongue &#124; Guwahati News |website=] |date=6 February 2011 |access-date=19 July 2021 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230329/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/declare-assamese-our-mother-tongue/articleshow/7438577.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Saikia |first=Arunabh |title=A new generation of 'Miya' Muslims in Assam may vote for Congress-AIUDF – but only out of compulsion |url=https://scroll.in/article/991174/a-new-generation-of-miya-muslims-in-assam-may-vote-for-congress-aiudf-but-only-out-of-compulsion |access-date=16 July 2021 |website=Scroll.in |date=2 April 2021 |language=en-US |archive-date=11 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210611061950/https://scroll.in/article/991174/a-new-generation-of-miya-muslims-in-assam-may-vote-for-congress-aiudf-but-only-out-of-compulsion |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=X |first=Samrat |title=National Register of Citizens: Identity issue haunts Assam, again |url=https://www.newslaundry.com/2018/01/08/national-register-of-citizens-identity-assam-immigrants |access-date=16 July 2021 |website=Newslaundry |date=8 January 2018 |archive-date=11 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210611061948/https://www.newslaundry.com/2018/01/08/national-register-of-citizens-identity-assam-immigrants |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.alterinter.org/?The-Economic-Basis-of-Assam-s-Linguistic-Politics-and-Anti-Immigrant-Movements |title=The Economic Basis of Assam's Linguistic Politics and Anti-Immigrant Movements |access-date=19 July 2021 |archive-date=22 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210622203258/https://www.alterinter.org/?The-Economic-Basis-of-Assam-s-Linguistic-Politics-and-Anti-Immigrant-Movements |url-status=live }}</ref> In the Brahmaputra Valley, the main Bengali dialect is that of ] (now in Bangladesh),<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Choudhury |first=Sumedha |date=September 2022 |title=Denationalisation and discrimination in postcolonial India |url=http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13582291221113517 |journal=International Journal of Discrimination and the Law |language=en |volume=22 |issue=3 |pages=326–342 |doi=10.1177/13582291221113517 |s2cid=250544870 |issn=1358-2291}}</ref> while in the Barak Valley and Hojai district, ] is the main language which is also considered to be a dialect of Bengali in census.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chakrabarti |first=Angana |date=27 September 2022 |title=Sylhetis were separated by Partition. Now, Indo-Bangladesh festival aims to bring them together |url=https://theprint.in/india/sylhetis-were-separated-by-partition-now-indo-bangladesh-festival-aims-to-bring-them-together/1143683/ |work=ThePrint |access-date=5 January 2024}}</ref> ] is the third most-spoken language followed by ] which comes under fourth position.


{{See also|Brahmaputra valley}} {{See also|Brahmaputra valley}}
] region of Assam]] ] region of Assam]]


{{Pie chart {{Pie chart
|thumb = right |thumb = right
|caption = Languages spoken in Brahmaputra valley (2011)<ref name="censusindia.gov.in"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/amp/opinion/news-battleground-assam-a-tale-of-two-valleys-and-the-caa-quandary-assam-bengal-polls-2021-685761|title = Battleground Assam a tale of two valleys and the CAA quandary Assam bengal polls 2021 &#124; Opinion News – India TV|date = 18 February 2021}}</ref> |caption = Languages spoken in Brahmaputra valley (2011)<ref name="censusindia.gov.in"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/amp/opinion/news-battleground-assam-a-tale-of-two-valleys-and-the-caa-quandary-assam-bengal-polls-2021-685761 |title=Battleground Assam a tale of two valleys and the CAA quandary Assam bengal polls 2021 &#124; Opinion News – India TV |date=18 February 2021 |access-date=17 October 2021 |archive-date=17 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211017095308/https://www.indiatvnews.com/amp/opinion/news-battleground-assam-a-tale-of-two-valleys-and-the-caa-quandary-assam-bengal-polls-2021-685761 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|label1 = ] (]) |label1 = ] (])
|value1 = 55.65 |value1 = 55.65
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|color5 = red |color5 = red
}} }}
The population of the Brahmaputra Valley is 27,580,977 according to the 2011 census report by the Assam government. Assamese is the official language of the Brahmaputra Valley and is spoken by 15 million people comprising 55.65% of the valley population. Bengali is spoken by 6.09 million people representing 22.1% of the valley, Hindi is spoken by 2.1 million comprising 7.61% of the region, Bodo is spoken by 1.41 million comprising 5.13% of the valley's population and 2.98 million people speak various indigenous tribal languages of Assam, such as ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], Sadri, ], ], Gondi, Savara, ], Halam, Ao and Motak. The population of the Brahmaputra Valley is 27,580,977 according to the 2011 census report by the Assam government. Assamese is the official language of the Brahmaputra Valley and is spoken by 15 million people comprising 55.65% of the valley population. Bengali is spoken by 6.09 million people representing 22.1% of the valley, Hindi is spoken by 2.1 million comprising 7.61% of the region, Bodo is spoken by 1.41 million comprising 5.13% of the valley's population and 2.98 million people speak various indigenous tribal languages of Assam, such as ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], Halam, Ao and Motak.


Traditionally, Assamese was the language of the common folk in the ancient ] and in the medieval kingdoms of ], ], Borahi Kachari, ] and ] kingdoms. Traces of the language are found in many poems by Luipa, Sarahapa, and others, in ] (c. 7th–8th century CE). Modern dialects such as ] and ] are remnants of this language. Moreover, Assamese in its traditional form was used by the ethno-cultural groups in the region as lingua-franca, which spread during the stronger kingdoms and was required for economic integration. Localised forms of the language still exist in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. Traditionally, Assamese was the language of the common folk in the ancient ] and in the medieval kingdoms of ], ], Borahi Kachari, ] and ] kingdoms. Traces of the language are found in many poems by Luipa, Sarahapa, and others, in ] (c. 7th–8th century CE). Modern dialects such as ] and ] are remnants of this language, which blend into the ] and ] lects spoken in North Bengal which have the same origin. Moreover, Assamese in its traditional form was used by the ethno-cultural groups in the region as lingua-franca, which spread during the stronger kingdoms and was required for economic integration. Localised forms of the language still exist in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.


Linguistically modern Assamese traces its roots to the version developed by the American Missionaries based on the local form used near ] (Xiwôxagôr) district. Assamese (''Ôxômiya'') is a rich language due to its hybrid nature and unique characteristics of pronunciation and softness. The presence of ] in Assamese makes it a unique among other similar ].<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Das|first1=Ankur|last2=Deka|first2=Tusmita|title=The Allophonic Variation of the Assamese voiceless velar fricative /x/|journal=13th Annual Conference of South Asian Languages (ICOSAL13) |url=https://www.academia.edu/35777293}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.languagesgulper.com/eng/Assamese.html|title=Assamese|website=www.languagesgulper.com|access-date=21 July 2019}}</ref> Linguistically modern Assamese traces its roots to the version developed by the American Missionaries based on the local form used near ] (Xiwôxagôr) district. Assamese (''Ôxômiya'') is a rich language due to its hybrid nature and unique characteristics of pronunciation and softness. The presence of ] in Assamese makes it a unique among other similar ].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Das |first1=Ankur |last2=Deka |first2=Tusmita |title=The Allophonic Variation of the Assamese voiceless velar fricative /x/ |journal=13th Annual Conference of South Asian Languages (ICOSAL13) |url=https://www.academia.edu/35777293 |access-date=21 July 2019 |archive-date=16 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220416085609/https://www.academia.edu/35777293 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.languagesgulper.com/eng/Assamese.html |title=Assamese |website=www.languagesgulper.com |access-date=21 July 2019 |archive-date=6 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206071325/http://www.languagesgulper.com/eng/Assamese.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


] is an ancient language of Assam. Spatial distribution patterns of the ethno-cultural groups, cultural traits and the phenomenon of naming all the major rivers in the ] with Bodo-Kachari words (e.g. ], Dibru, ], D/], and Dikrai) reveal that it was more widely-spoken in ancient times. Bodo is now spoken largely in the Western Assam. It is official language of the ] territorial region and co-official language of the state of Assam. It is also one of twenty-two languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the ]. After years of neglect, now Bodo language is getting attention and its literature is developing. Other native languages of Tibeto-Burman origin and related to Bodo-Kachari are ], ], ], ], and ].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} ] is spoken largely in ]. It is official language of the ] territorial region and co-official language of the state of Assam. It is also one of twenty-two languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the ]. Spatial distribution patterns of the ethno-cultural groups, cultural traits and the phenomenon of naming all the major rivers in the ] with Bodo-Kachari words (e.g. ], Dibru, ], D/], and Dikrai) reveal that it was more widely-spoken in ancient times. Other languages of Tibeto-Burman origin and related to Bodo-Kachari are ], ], ], ], and ].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


There are approximately 590,000 ] speakers spread all over the state forming about 1.98% of Assam's total population according to 2011 census. There are approximately 590,000 ] speakers spread all over the state forming about 1.98% of Assam's total population according to 2011 census.


There are speakers of ] in Assam. A total of six Tai languages were spoken in Assam. Two are now extinct.<ref name="Morey">Morey, Stephen. 2005. ''The Tai languages of Assam: a grammar and texts''. Canberra: Pacific Linguistics.</ref> There are speakers of ] in Assam. A total of six Tai languages were spoken in Assam. Two are now extinct.<ref name="Morey">Morey, Stephen. 2005. ''The Tai languages of Assam: a grammar and texts''. Canberra: Pacific Linguistics.</ref>
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] (critically endangered) * ] (critically endangered)
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== Government and politics == == Government and politics ==
{{Main|Government of Assam|Politics of Assam}} {{Main|Government of Assam|Politics of Assam}}
Assam has Governor ] as the head of the state,<ref name="nie-Mukhi">{{cite news|title=Jagdish Mukhi: Few facts about Assam's new Governor|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/sep/30/jagdish-mukhi-few-facts-about-assams-new-governor-1664813.html|work=The New Indian Express|date=30 September 2017|access-date=30 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170930222521/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/sep/30/jagdish-mukhi-few-facts-about-assams-new-governor-1664813.html|archive-date=30 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> the ] ] of 126 members, and a government led by the ]. The state is divided into five regional ]. Assam has Governor ] as the head of the state,<ref name="Governor_2024"/> the ] ] of 126 members, and a government led by the ]. The state is divided into five regional ].


On 19 May 2016, ] under the leadership of ] won the Assembly elections, thus forming the first BJP-led government in Assam.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bjp-win-assam-sarbananda-sonowal-elections-2016-results-2812854/|title=North by Northeast: What explains BJP's stunning win in Assam?|date=22 May 2016|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808224823/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bjp-win-assam-sarbananda-sonowal-elections-2016-results-2812854/|archive-date=8 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On 19 May 2016, ] under the leadership of ] won the Assembly elections, thus forming the first BJP-led government in Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bjp-win-assam-sarbananda-sonowal-elections-2016-results-2812854/ |title=North by Northeast: What explains BJP's stunning win in Assam? |date=22 May 2016|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808224823/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bjp-win-assam-sarbananda-sonowal-elections-2016-results-2812854/|archive-date=8 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Administrative districts === === Administrative districts ===
] 2. ] 3. ] 4. ] 5. ] 6.] 7. ] 8. ] 9. ] 10. ] 11. ] 12. ] 13. ] 14. ] 15. ] 16. ] 17. ] 18. ] 19. ] 20. ] 21. ] 22. ] 23. ] 24. ] 25. ] 26. ] 27. ] 28. ] 29. ] 30. ] 31. ] 32. ] 33. ] 34. ]]] ] 2. ] 3. ] 4. ] 5. ] 6.] 7. ] 8. ] 9. ](merged with Sonitpur district) 10. ] 11. ] 12. ] 13. ] 14. ](merged with Nagaon district)15. ] 16. ] 17. ] 18. ] 19. ] 20. ] 21. ] 22. ] 23. ] 24. ] 25. ] 26. ] 27. ] 28. ] 29. ] 30. ] 31. ] 32. ] 33. ] 34. ](merged with Barpeta district)]]
{{Main|List of districts of Assam}} {{Main|List of districts of Assam}}
The ] of Assam are delineated based on geographic features such as rivers, hills, and forests. The ] of Assam are delineated based on geographic features such as rivers, hills, and forests.


On 15 August 2015, five new districts were formed:<ref name="new districts">{{cite news|title=Govt announces 5 new districts|url=http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14546|access-date=16 August 2015|work=Assam Times|date=15 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150817202614/http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14546|archive-date=17 August 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RDGoA">Revenue Department, Government of Assam</ref> On 15 August 2015, five new districts were formed:<ref name="new districts">{{cite news |title=Govt announces 5 new districts |url=http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14546|access-date=16 August 2015 |work=Assam Times |date=15 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150817202614/http://www.assamtimes.org/node/14546|archive-date=17 August 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RDGoA">Revenue Department, Government of Assam</ref>
* Part of ] became the ] (9 in the nearby map) * Part of ] became the ] (9 in the nearby map)
* Part of ] became the ] (4) * Part of ] became the ] (4)
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* The ] was divided into East (11) and West (15) districts * The ] was divided into East (11) and West (15) districts


On 27 June 2016, an island in the ] was removed from the ] and declared the ], India's first district that is a river island.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://hindustantimes.com/indianews/assam-majuli-to-become-india-s-first-river-island-district/story-hzFoxSUxh3IpRpSeIqrhtM.html| title=Assam: Majuli becomes 1st river island district of India| work=]| date=27 June 2016| access-date=28 June 2016| location=Guwahati| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829023254/http://www.hindustantimes.com/indianews/assam-majuli-to-become-india-s-first-river-island-district/story-hzFoxSUxh3IpRpSeIqrhtM.html| archive-date=29 August 2016| url-status=live| df=dmy-all}}</ref> On 27 June 2016, an island in the ] was bifurcated from the ] and declared the ], India's first district that is a river island.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://hindustantimes.com/indianews/assam-majuli-to-become-india-s-first-river-island-district/story-hzFoxSUxh3IpRpSeIqrhtM.html |title=Assam: Majuli becomes 1st river island district of India |work=] |date=27 June 2016| access-date=28 June 2016 |location=Guwahati| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829023254/http://www.hindustantimes.com/indianews/assam-majuli-to-become-india-s-first-river-island-district/story-hzFoxSUxh3IpRpSeIqrhtM.html| archive-date=29 August 2016| url-status=live }}</ref>


On 12 January 2021 ] has been curves out from ] and formally declared as a district. With the announcement made by Governor ], it has become the 34th district of Assam.<ref>{{cite web|last=Desk|first=Sentinel Digital|date=13 January 2021|title='Bajali' Becomes the 34th Full-Fledged District of Assam On 12 January 2021, ] was carved out from ] and formally declared as a district. With the announcement made by Governor ], it has become the 34th district of Assam.<ref>{{cite web |last=Desk |first=Sentinel Digital |date=13 January 2021 |title='Bajali' Becomes the 34th Full-Fledged District of Assam |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/bajali-becomes-the-34th-full-fledged-district-of-assam-520780 |access-date=16 January 2021 |website=www.sentinelassam.com |language=en |archive-date=13 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113121804/https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/bajali-becomes-the-34th-full-fledged-district-of-assam-520780 |url-status=live }}</ref>

|url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/bajali-becomes-the-34th-full-fledged-district-of-assam-520780
On 31 December 2022, existing four districts Bajali (with Barpeta), Tamulpur(with Udalguri), Biswanath (with Sonitpur) and Hojai(with Nagaon) and number of district came down to 31.
|access-date=16 January 2021|website=www.sentinelassam.com|language=en}}</ref>

However, after the delimitation exercise was carried out in Assam, the ] reconstituted the 4 new districts (Bajali, Tamulpur, Biswanath and Hojai), taking the number of districts to 35 again.


=== Subdivisions === === Subdivisions ===
The administrative districts are further subdivided into 54 "Subdivisions" or '']''.<ref name="RDGoA" /> Every district is administered from a district headquarters with the office of the ], District Magistrate, Office of the District Panchayat and usually with a ]. The administrative districts are further subdivided into 54 "Subdivisions" or '']''.<ref name="RDGoA" /> Every district is administered from a district headquarters with the office of the ], District Magistrate, Office of the District Panchayat and usually with a ].


The ] system is organised under the ''jila-parishad'' (District Panchayat) for a district, '']'' for group of or individual rural areas and under the urban local bodies for the towns and cities. There are now 2489 village panchayats covering 26247 villages in Assam.<ref name="DIPRGoA">{{cite web|last=Directorate of Information and Public Relations |first=Government of Assam |title=Area of the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Assam, 2002 |url=http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |access-date=29 May 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006161204/http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |archive-date=6 October 2007 }}</ref> The 'town-committee' or ''nagar-somiti'' for small towns, 'municipal board' or ''pouro-sobha'' for medium towns and ] or ''pouro-nigom'' for the cities consist of the urban local bodies. The ] system is organised under the ''jila-parishad'' (District Panchayat) for a district, '']'' for group of or individual rural areas and under the urban local bodies for the towns and cities. There are now 2489 village panchayats covering 26247 villages in Assam.<ref name="DIPRGoA">{{cite web |last=Directorate of Information and Public Relations |first=Government of Assam |title=Area of the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Assam, 2002 |url=http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |access-date=29 May 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006161204/http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |archive-date=6 October 2007}}</ref> The 'town-committee' or ''nagar-somiti'' for small towns, 'municipal board' or ''pouro-sobha'' for medium towns and ] or ''pouro-nigom'' for the cities consist of the urban local bodies.


For revenue purposes, the districts are divided into revenue circles and ''mouza''s; for the development projects, the districts are divided into 219 'development-blocks' and for law and order these are divided into 206 police stations or ''thana''. For revenue purposes, the districts are divided into revenue circles and ''mouza''s; for the development projects, the districts are divided into 219 'development-blocks' and for law and order these are divided into 206 police stations or ''thana''.


] is the largest ] and ] administered under the highest form of ] – ] in Assam. The Corporation administers an area of {{cvt|216.79|km2}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/|title=GMC Portal|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805090715/http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/|archive-date=5 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> All other urban centres are managed under ]. ] is the largest ] and ] administered under the highest form of ] – ] in Assam. The Corporation administers an area of {{cvt|216.79|km2}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/ |title=GMC Portal|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805090715/http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/|archive-date=5 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Apart from ] and ] All other urban centres are managed under ].


A list of 9 oldest, classified and prominent, and constantly inhabited, recognised urban centres based on the earliest years of formation of the civic bodies, before the ] of 1947 is tabulated below: A list of 9 oldest, classified and prominent, and constantly inhabited, recognised urban centres based on the earliest years of formation of the civic bodies, before the ] of 1947 is tabulated below:


{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center; font-size:86%;" {| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center; font-size:86%;"
! colspan="9" style="background:#A0A0F0;" | Oldest recognised urban centres of Assam<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gZmusO1pWjUC|title=Quit India Movement in Assam|first=Anil Kumar|last=Sharma|date=1 January 2007|publisher=Mittal Publications|access-date=5 August 2016|via=Google Books|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324090756/https://books.google.com/books?id=gZmusO1pWjUC|archive-date=24 March 2017|url-status=live|isbn=9788183242424}}</ref> ! colspan="9" style="background:#A0A0F0;" | Oldest recognised urban centres of Assam<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gZmusO1pWjUC |title=Quit India Movement in Assam |first=Anil Kumar |last=Sharma |date=1 January 2007 |publisher=Mittal Publications|access-date=5 August 2016 |via=Google Books|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324090756/https://books.google.com/books?id=gZmusO1pWjUC|archive-date=24 March 2017|url-status=live |isbn=9788183242424}}</ref>
|- |-
! style="width: 150px;" | Urban Centres ! style="width: 150px;" | Urban Centres
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|- |-
! rowspan="3" style="text-align:center;"|] ! rowspan="3" style="text-align:center;"|]
| Guwahati Town Committee || 1853 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Gold;" | Tier – III || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Guwahati, the first township of Assam.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mJroCwAAQBAJ|title=Economics of Informal Milk Producing Units in Assam|first=Dr Jugal|last=Saikia|date=8 April 2016|publisher=Notion Press|access-date=5 August 2016|via=Google Books|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324235245/https://books.google.com/books?id=mJroCwAAQBAJ|archive-date=24 March 2017|url-status=live|isbn=9789352069385}}</ref>}} | Guwahati Town Committee || 1853 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Gold;" | Tier – III || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Guwahati, the first township of Assam.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mJroCwAAQBAJ |title=Economics of Informal Milk Producing Units in Assam |first=Dr Jugal |last=Saikia |date=8 April 2016 |publisher=Notion Press|access-date=5 August 2016 |via=Google Books|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324235245/https://books.google.com/books?id=mJroCwAAQBAJ|archive-date=24 March 2017|url-status=live |isbn=9789352069385}}</ref>}}
|- |-
| Guwahati Municipal Board || 1873<sup>↑</sup> || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} ||{{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || | Guwahati Municipal Board || 1873<sup>↑</sup> || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} ||{{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II ||
|- |-
| ] || 1974<sup>↑</sup> || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} ||{{Yes}} || style="background: Aqua;" | Tier – I || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Establishment of Guwahati Municipal Corporation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/?page_id=12|title=History – GMC Portal|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629112827/http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/?page_id=12|archive-date=29 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | ] || 1974<sup>↑</sup> || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} ||{{Yes}} || style="background: Aqua;" | Tier – I || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Establishment of Guwahati Municipal Corporation.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/?page_id=12 |title=History – GMC Portal|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629112827/http://www.gmcportal.in/gmc-web/?page_id=12|archive-date=29 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
|] || 1873 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Dibrugarh, the second township of Assam.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org.in/|title=Municipal Board|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611150105/http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org.in/|archive-date=11 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}} |] & ] || 1873 & 2024 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Dibrugarh, the second township of Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org.in/ |title=Municipal Board|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611150105/http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org.in/|archive-date=11 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
| Goalpara Municipal Board || 1875 || {{No}} {{ref|1|1}} || {{Yes}} || {{No}} {{ref|2|2}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" |Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Goalpara Municipality, 1875.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://goalparamb.org.in/Aboutus.html|title=Municipal Board-About Us|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625135907/http://goalparamb.org.in/Aboutus.html|archive-date=25 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | Goalpara Municipal Board || 1875 || {{No}} {{ref|1|1}} || {{Yes}} || {{No}} {{ref|2|2}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" |Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Goalpara Municipality, 1875.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://goalparamb.org.in/Aboutus.html |title=Municipal Board-About Us|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625135907/http://goalparamb.org.in/Aboutus.html|archive-date=25 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
| Dhubri Municipal Board || 1883 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" |Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Dhubri Municipality, 1883.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dhubrimb.org.in/|title=Dhubri Municipal Board|access-date=14 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407235031/http://www.dhubrimb.org.in/|archive-date=7 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | Dhubri Municipal Board || 1883 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" |Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Dhubri Municipality, 1883.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dhubrimb.org.in/ |title=Dhubri Municipal Board|access-date=14 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407235031/http://www.dhubrimb.org.in/|archive-date=7 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
| Nagaon Municipal Board || 1893 || {{No}} {{ref|3|3}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content =Formation of Nagaon Municipality, 1893.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nagaon.gov.in/hist.html|title=Nagaon – History|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418063334/http://nagaon.gov.in/hist.html|archive-date=18 April 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>}} | Nagaon Municipal Board || 1893 || {{No}} {{ref|3|3}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content =Formation of Nagaon Municipality, 1893.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nagaon.gov.in/hist.html |title=Nagaon – History|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418063334/http://nagaon.gov.in/hist.html|archive-date=18 April 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
| Tezpur Municipal Board || 1894 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Tezpur Municipality, 1894.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tezpurmb.co.in/AboutMunicipalBoard.aspx |title=Municipal Board History |access-date=24 May 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624164612/http://www.tezpurmb.co.in/AboutMunicipalBoard.aspx |archive-date=24 June 2016 }}</ref>}} | Tezpur Municipal Board || 1894 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Tezpur Municipality, 1894.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tezpurmb.co.in/AboutMunicipalBoard.aspx |title=Municipal Board History |access-date=24 May 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624164612/http://www.tezpurmb.co.in/AboutMunicipalBoard.aspx |archive-date=24 June 2016}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
| ] || 1909 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Jorhat Municipality, 1909.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jorhatmunicipalboard.org/jorhat_municipal_board.php|title=Jorhat Municipal Board(JBM), Jorhat, Assam|access-date=5 August 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327181336/http://jorhatmunicipalboard.org/jorhat_municipal_board.php|archive-date=27 March 2016}}</ref>}} | ] || 1909 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Jorhat Municipality, 1909.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jorhatmunicipalboard.org/jorhat_municipal_board.php |title=Jorhat Municipal Board(JBM), Jorhat, Assam|access-date=5 August 2016|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327181336/http://jorhatmunicipalboard.org/jorhat_municipal_board.php|archive-date=27 March 2016}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
| ] || 1920 || {{No}} {{ref|4|4}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Golaghat Municipality, 1920.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1150119/jsp/northeast/story_9079.jsp#.V0OXAZMrIcg|title=AGP lists civic poll candidates|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160630201713/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1150119/jsp/northeast/story_9079.jsp#.V0OXAZMrIcg|archive-date=30 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | ] || 1920 || {{No}} {{ref|4|4}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Golaghat Municipality, 1920.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1150119/jsp/northeast/story_9079.jsp#.V0OXAZMrIcg |title=AGP lists civic poll candidates|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160630201713/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1150119/jsp/northeast/story_9079.jsp#.V0OXAZMrIcg|archive-date=30 June 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}
|- |-
! ] ! ]
|Silchar Municipal Board || 1922 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Silchar Municipality, 1922.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://silchartoday.com/silchar/silchar-municipal-board-silchar-municipality-assam/|title=Silchar Municipal Board (Silchar Municipality) Assam – Silchar Karimganj Hailakandi|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160728100952/http://silchartoday.com/silchar/silchar-municipal-board-silchar-municipality-assam/|archive-date=28 July 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>}} |Silchar Municipal Board || 1922 || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || {{Yes}} || style="background: Orange;" | Tier – II || {{hidden | headercss = text-align: left; | header = More | content = Formation of Silchar Municipality, 1922.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://silchartoday.com/silchar/silchar-municipal-board-silchar-municipality-assam/ |title=Silchar Municipal Board (Silchar Municipality) Assam – Silchar Karimganj Hailakandi|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160728100952/http://silchartoday.com/silchar/silchar-municipal-board-silchar-municipality-assam/|archive-date=28 July 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}
|- |-
| colspan="9" |†<small>''Tier – I: a big city with an ] (in the true sense) administered by a ]. Tier – II: a medium–sized city for an ] administered by a ]. <br /> Tier – III: a small ], larger than a ] with a sizeable human settlement''</small>. <br /> ↑<small>''Upgraded to the next highest form of civic body''.</small> | colspan="9" |†<small>''Tier – I: a big city with an ] (in the true sense) administered by a ]. Tier – II: a medium–sized city for an ] administered by a ]. <br /> Tier – III: a small ], larger than a ] with a sizeable human settlement''</small>. <br /> ↑<small>''Upgraded to the next highest form of civic body''.</small>
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=== Autonomous Council === === Autonomous Council ===
The state has ]. The state has ] under the sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution.
*Bodoland Autonomous Territorial Council *]
*Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council *].
*Dima Hasao Autonomous Council. *].


The state has further more 12 statutory autonomous council – The state has further statutory autonomous councils constituted under State Act-

* ] for ethnic ] (also known as Lalung people)
* ] for ethnic ] (Lalung)
* ] * ]
* ] for ]
* ]
* ] for ]
* ]
* ] for Moran people * ] for Moran people
*Dudhnoi for ethnic ] * Dudhnoi for ethnic ]
* ] for ] * ] for ]
* ] for Matak people * ] for Matak people
* ] for ], * ] for ]
* ] for ] living outside the ] * ] for ] living outside the ]

* Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council, Dibrugarh,
In March 2024, the Assam cabinet had given green signal for 'Kiran Sheikh' development council for the 'Kiran Sheikh' community in ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Singh |first1=Bikash |date=11 March 2024 |title=Assam Cabinet greenlights 'Kiran Sheikh' development council |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/assam-cabinet-greenlights-kiran-sheikh-development-council/articleshow/108387064.cms |work=The Economic Times |access-date=20 March 2024 |archive-date=20 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320113618/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/assam-cabinet-greenlights-kiran-sheikh-development-council/articleshow/108387064.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>
* Thengal Kachari Autonomous Council,
* Titabar and Deori Autonomous Council,
* Lakhimpur for ethnic ].


==Social issues== ==Social issues==
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] ]


According to Assam Government, Assam has border dispute with four states namely Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh.<ref name="m.timesofindia.com">{{cite web| url = https://m.timesofindia.com/india/total-seven-inter-state-border-disputes-in-country-assam-has-dispute-with-four-states-govt/amp_articleshow/84865195.cms| title = Total seven inter-state border disputes in country; Assam has dispute with four states: Govt {{!}} India News - Times of India| website = ]}}</ref> According to Assam Government, Assam has border dispute with four states namely Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh.<ref name="The Times of India">{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/total-seven-inter-state-border-disputes-in-country-assam-has-dispute-with-four-states-govt/articleshow/84865195.cms |title=Total seven inter-state border disputes in country; Assam has dispute with four states: Govt |website=] |date=29 July 2021 |access-date=14 August 2021 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230334/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/total-seven-inter-state-border-disputes-in-country-assam-has-dispute-with-four-states-govt/articleshow/84865195.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>
'''Assam-Mizoram dispute''' '''Assam-Mizoram dispute'''


] used to be a district of Assam as ] before being carved out as a separate union territory and later, becoming another state in 1987. Because of the history, the district's borders did not really matter for locals for a long time. Mizoram shares a border with the districts ], ] and ] which comes under ] region of Assam. ] used to be a district of Assam as ] before being carved out as a separate union territory and later, becoming another state in 1987. Because of the history, the district's borders did not really matter for locals for a long time. Mizoram shares a border with the districts ], ] and ] which comes under ] region of Assam.
Over time, the two states started having different perceptions about where the demarcation should be. While Mizoram wants it to be along an ] notified in 1875 to protect tribals from outside influence, which Mizos feel is part of their historical homeland, Assam wants it to be demarcated according to district boundaries drawn up much later.<ref name="m.timesofindia.com"/><ref>{{cite news |last1=Deb |first1=Debraj |title=Explained: Why did a 150-year-old Assam-Mizoram dispute get violent now? |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/the-assam-mizoram-dispute-violence-policemen-dead-7425600/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Indian Express |date=5 August 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Over time, the two states started having different perceptions about where the demarcation should be. While Mizoram wants it to be along an ] notified in 1875 to protect tribals from outside influence, which Mizos feel is part of their historical homeland, Assam wants it to be demarcated according to district boundaries drawn up much later.<ref name="The Times of India"/><ref>{{cite news |last1=Deb |first1=Debraj |title=Explained: Why did a 150-year-old Assam-Mizoram dispute get violent now? |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/the-assam-mizoram-dispute-violence-policemen-dead-7425600/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Indian Express |date=5 August 2021 |language=en |archive-date=3 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220403085429/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/the-assam-mizoram-dispute-violence-policemen-dead-7425600/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


'''Assam-Meghalaya dispute''' '''Assam-Meghalaya dispute'''


] has identified close to a dozen areas on which it has a dispute with Assam about the state's borders. The chief ministers of the two states, ] and Megahalya's ], recently held the first-ever meeting on inter-state border dispute. Both the states have agreed to individually assess the claims for all 12 areas flagged by Meghalaya in the past. A second round of discussion between the two state CMs will be held next month of August. ] has identified close to a dozen areas on which it has a dispute with Assam about the state's borders. The chief ministers of the two states, ] and Megahalya's ], recently held the first-ever meeting on inter-state border dispute. Both the states have agreed to individually assess the claims for all 12 areas flagged by Meghalaya in the past. A second round of discussion between the two state CMs will be held next month of August.
On the question of the role the Union Government is playing in redressing the inter-State border dispute in the country, minister of state for home affairs ] said, “The approach of the Central Government has consistently been that inter-state disputes can be resolved only with the cooperation of the State Governments concerned and that the Central Government acts only as a facilitator for amicable settlement of the dispute in the spirit of mutual understanding.”<ref name="m.timesofindia.com"/> On the question of the role the Union Government is playing in redressing the inter-State border dispute in the country, minister of state for home affairs ] said, "The approach of the Central Government has consistently been that inter-state disputes can be resolved only with the cooperation of the State Governments concerned and that the Central Government acts only as a facilitator for amicable settlement of the dispute in the spirit of mutual understanding."<ref name="The Times of India"/>
'''Assam-Nagaland dispute''' '''Assam-Nagaland dispute'''


The border dispute between the two states has been going on since the formation of Nagaland in 1963. The two states lay claim to Merapani, a small village next to the plains of Assam's Golaghat district. There have been reports of violent clashes in the region since the 1960s.<ref name="m.timesofindia.com"/><ref>{{cite web| url = https://m.timesofindia.com/india/border-dispute-assam-signs-agreement-with-nagaland-to-diffuse-stand-off-on-eastern-front/amp_articleshow/84925132.cms| title = Assam Nagaland border dispute: Assam signs agreement with Nagaland to diffuse stand-off on eastern front {{!}} India News - Times of India| website = ]}}</ref> The border dispute between the two states has been going on since the formation of Nagaland in 1963. The two states lay claim to Merapani, a small village next to the plains of Assam's Golaghat district. There have been reports of violent clashes in the region since the 1960s.<ref name="The Times of India"/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/border-dispute-assam-signs-agreement-with-nagaland-to-diffuse-stand-off-on-eastern-front/articleshow/84925132.cms |title=Assam Nagaland border dispute: Assam signs agreement with Nagaland to diffuse stand-off on eastern front |website=] |date=August 2021 |access-date=14 August 2021 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230330/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/border-dispute-assam-signs-agreement-with-nagaland-to-diffuse-stand-off-on-eastern-front/articleshow/84925132.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>


'''Assam-Arunachal Pradesh dispute''' '''Assam-Arunachal Pradesh dispute'''


Assam shares an 804.10&nbsp;km inter-state boundary with ]. The state of Arunachal Pradesh, created in 1987, claims some land that traditionally belonged to its residents has been given to Assam. A tripartite committee had recommended that certain territories be transferred from Assam to Arunachal. The two states have since been battling it out in the ] over the issue. Some incidents of local violence have been reported from the borders.<ref name="m.timesofindia.com"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Border dispute with Arunachal at 1,200 places: Himanta Biswa Sarma |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/border-dispute-with-arunachal-at-1200-places-himanta-biswa-sarma/article61430562.ece |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=13 August 2021 |language=en-IN}}</ref> Assam shares an 804.10&nbsp;km inter-state boundary with ]. The state of Arunachal Pradesh, created in 1987, claims some land that traditionally belonged to its residents has been given to Assam. A tripartite committee had recommended that certain territories be transferred from Assam to Arunachal. The two states have since been battling it out in the ] over the issue. Some incidents of local violence have been reported from the borders.<ref name="The Times of India"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Border dispute with Arunachal at 1,200 places: Himanta Biswa Sarma |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/border-dispute-with-arunachal-at-1200-places-himanta-biswa-sarma/article61430562.ece |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=13 August 2021 |language=en-IN |archive-date=25 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220525120742/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/border-dispute-with-arunachal-at-1200-places-himanta-biswa-sarma/article61430562.ece |url-status=live }}</ref>


===Separate statehood demand within Assam=== ===Separate statehood demand within Assam===
'''Bodoland''' '''Ahomland'''
]
{{Main article|Bodoland}}
]
The agitation for the creation of a separate ] state resulted in an agreement between the Indian Government, the Assam state government and the ]. According to the agreement made on 10 February 2003, the ], an entity subordinate to the government of Assam, was created to govern four districts covering 3082 ]-majority villages in Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/2003/02/26/stories/2003022600041000.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120905180331/http://www.hinduonnet.com/2003/02/26/stories/2003022600041000.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 September 2012 |title=The Hindu : Assam: accord and discord |publisher=Hinduonnet.com |access-date=4 March 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/memorandum_feb02.htm |title=Memorandum of Settlement on Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) |publisher=Satp.org |date=10 February 2003 |access-date=4 March 2012}}</ref> Elections to the council were held on 13 May 2003, and ] was sworn in as the chief of the 46-member council on 4 June.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.hindu.com/2005/06/04/stories/2005060401511300.htm | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050615084032/http://www.hindu.com/2005/06/04/stories/2005060401511300.htm | url-status=dead | archive-date=15 June 2005 | location=Chennai, India | work=] | title=Mahillary sworn in Bodoland council chief | date=4 June 2005}}</ref> Demographic wise, the Indigenous Bodo tribe constitutes half of the region's population, along with the region have also significant large number of other ethnic minorities which includes: Assamese, Koch Rajbangshi, Garo, Rabha tribe, Adivasis, Nepalis, Tea tribes, Bengalis, Biharis, Marwaris and Muslims.<ref name="censusindia.gov.in">{{cite web| url = https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-16/DDW-C16-STMT-MDDS-1800.XLSX| title = Reference at censusindia.gov.in}}</ref>


]'s various ] organisations like "Ahom Tai Mangoliya Rajya Parishad" (ATMRP), has been demanding a separate Ahomland state since 1967, comprising erstwhile Un-divided Sivasagar and Lakhimpur districts (today's ] and ] divisions) respectively.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sharma |first1=Rittick |title=Assam: Ahomland movement revives over delimitation draft |url=https://www.eastmojo.com/assam/2023/07/20/assam-ahomland-movement-revives-over-delimitation-draft/ |access-date=23 September 2023 |work=EastMojo |date=20 July 2023 |archive-date=29 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929061044/https://www.eastmojo.com/assam/2023/07/20/assam-ahomland-movement-revives-over-delimitation-draft/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On 2023, "TAI Ahom Yuba Parishad, Assam" (TAYPA) have organised a protest at Chachal and have demanded separate Ahomland state.<ref>{{cite news |title=TAYPA organized protest in Guwahati; demand ST status and an Ahom land - Sentinelassam |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/guwahati-city/taypa-organized-protest-in-guwahati-demand-st-status-and-an-ahom-land-643890 |access-date=23 September 2023 |work=The Sentinel |date=4 April 2023 |archive-date=29 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929061043/https://www.sentinelassam.com/guwahati-city/taypa-organized-protest-in-guwahati-demand-st-status-and-an-ahom-land-643890 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=TAYPA Demands Separate Ahom Land, ST Status For Community - The Hills Times |url=https://thehillstimes.in/assam/taypa-demands-separate-ahom-land-st-status-for-community |access-date=23 September 2023 |work=The Hills Time |date=20 July 2023 |archive-date=29 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929082607/https://thehillstimes.in/assam/taypa-demands-separate-ahom-land-st-status-for-community |url-status=live }}</ref>
'''Karbi Anglong'''
{{See also|Karbi Anglong}}
]


'''Barak state'''
] is one of the 35 ] of Assam. Karbi Anglong was previously known as Mikir Hills. It was part of the Excluded Areas and Partially Excluded Areas (the present North East India) in British India. The British Indian government had never included this area under their government's jurisdiction. Thereby, no government development work or activity were done, nor any tax levied from the hills including Karbi Anglong. The first memorandum for a ] homeland was presented to Governor Reid on 28 October 1940 by ] and Khorsing Terang at Mohongdijua.<ref>Dharamsing Teron, "Opium Curse – A Forgotten Chapter", unpublished.</ref> The Karbi leaders were then, a part of the All Party Hill Leaders' Conference (APHLC) which was formed on 6 July 1960.<ref>J. I. Kathar (IAS Retd), "1971 Aningkan Kilik Kehai Un:e....", ''Thekar ''(5 February 2013); available from {{cite web| url = http://thekararnivang.com/2013/02/05/1971-aningkan-kilik-kehai-un-e-karbi-asongja-atum-karbi-atum-aphan-autonomous-state-kapelong-aphurkimo-2/| title = Reference at thekararnivang.com| access-date = 14 August 2021| archive-date = 16 May 2018| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180516104826/http://thekararnivang.com/2013/02/05/1971-aningkan-kilik-kehai-un-e-karbi-asongja-atum-karbi-atum-aphan-autonomous-state-kapelong-aphurkimo-2/| url-status = dead}}</ref> The movement again gained momentum when the Karbi Anglong District Council passed a resolution demanding a Separate State in 1981. Then again from 1986 through the leadership of Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC), demanded Autonomous statehood of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao under Article 244(A). In 2002, the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council passed another resolution to press for the demand of statehood. Several other memoranda were submitted at different times by several organisations. The demand for a separate state turned violent on 31 July 2013 when student demonstrators set government buildings on fire. Following the incident, the elected leaders of Karbi Anglong jointly submitted a memorandum to the ] demanding a separate State. Demographic wise, more than half of the Karbi Anglong population is made up of Indigenous Karbi tribe with significant migrants from other parts of India.<ref name="censusindia.gov.in"/>
{{Main article|Barak state movement}}
]

The ] of Assam comprising the present districts of ], ] and ] is contiguous to ] (Bengal plains), where the Bengalis, according to historian J.B. Bhattacharjee, had settled well before the colonial period, influencing the culture of ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://karimganj.gov.in/ |title=Home {{!}} Karimganj District {{!}} Government Of Assam, India |access-date=14 August 2021 |archive-date=23 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210723165055/https://karimganj.gov.in/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Cachar">{{cite book |last1=Baruah |first1=Professor of Political Studies Sanjib |last2=Baruah |first2=Sanjib |title=India Against Itself: Assam and the Politics of Nationality |date=29 June 1999 |publisher=University of Pennsylvania Press |isbn=978-0-8122-3491-6 |page=103 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8k-irMMTnywC&dq=bengalis+in+cachar&pg=PA103 |language=en |access-date=14 August 2021 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230333/https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/India_Against_Itself/8k-irMMTnywC?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=bengalis+in+cachar&pg=PA103&printsec=frontcover |url-status=live }}</ref> Bhattacharjee describes that the Dimasa kings spoke Bengali, the inscriptions and coins were written in Bengali script and the official language of the court was also ].<ref name="Cachar" /> Migrations to Cachar increased after the British annexation of the region.<ref name="Cachar" />
The native ] of Southern Assam demanded separate state for themselves within the Bengali majority areas of Assam particularly Bengali majority ] comprising three districts: ], ], ] along with ] and parts of ] was also demanded to meet the criteria for creating a separate state for themselves by carving out from Assam's Assamese majority ] post ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Assam NRC LIVE: Not Hindus or Muslims, But Bengalis Being Targeted, Says Mamata |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/assam-nrc-live-not-hindus-or-muslims-but-bengalis-being-targeted-says-mamata-1827521.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=News18 |date=30 July 2018 |language=en |archive-date=12 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220712175627/https://www.news18.com/news/india/assam-nrc-live-not-hindus-or-muslims-but-bengalis-being-targeted-says-mamata-1827521.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |agency=PTI |title=Exclusion of Hindu Bengalis from Assam NRC changing political |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/exclusion-of-hindu-bengalis-from-assam-nrc-changing-political-119092200259_1.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Business Standard |date=22 September 2019 |archive-date=30 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220430005842/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/exclusion-of-hindu-bengalis-from-assam-nrc-changing-political-119092200259_1.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=What the NRC reveals about the challenges of being Bengali in Assam |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/what-the-nrc-reveals-about-the-challenges-of-being-bengali-in-assam/story-WWTy7KEf4YQpTCZwoT9fEI.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Hindustan Times |date=7 September 2018 |language=en |archive-date=3 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220403221845/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/what-the-nrc-reveals-about-the-challenges-of-being-bengali-in-assam/story-WWTy7KEf4YQpTCZwoT9fEI.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Daniyal |first1=Shoaib |title='An expel Bengalis campaign': Opposing NRC in Assam, Mamata makes her strongest identity pitch yet |url=https://scroll.in/article/888680/an-expel-bengalis-campaign-opposing-assams-nrc-mamata-makes-her-strongest-identity-pitch-yet |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Scroll.in |date=31 July 2018 |archive-date=7 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407101406/https://scroll.in/article/888680/an-expel-bengalis-campaign-opposing-assams-nrc-mamata-makes-her-strongest-identity-pitch-yet |url-status=live }}</ref> ] is the proposed capital of Barak state.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.east-himalaya.com/silchar.php |title=One moment, please... |access-date=14 August 2021 |archive-date=28 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210928101652/http://www.east-himalaya.com/silchar.php |url-status=live }}</ref> Barak valley is the most neglected part of Assam in terms of its infrastructure development, tourism sector, educational institutions, hospitals, IT industries, G.D.P, H.D.I etc. which is still lagging behind in comparison to the Assam's mainland ] which have access to all of those facilities mentioned above.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mazumder |first1=Prasanta |title=Statehood demand grows louder in Assam's Barak Valley |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/jul/12/statehood-demand-grows-louder-in-assams-barak-valley-1842315.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=New Indian Express |date=12 July 2018 |archive-date=4 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220404185447/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/jul/12/statehood-demand-grows-louder-in-assams-barak-valley-1842315.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Barak organization demands creation of separate state - Sentinelassam |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/news/barak-organization-demands-creation-of-separate-state/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Sentinel |date=27 December 2016 |language=en |archive-date=18 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518053144/https://www.sentinelassam.com/news/barak-organization-demands-creation-of-separate-state/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Give up separate Barak state demand: Sonowal to Dutta Roy |url=https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/give-up-separate-barak-state-demand.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Northeast Now |date=26 July 2018 |archive-date=31 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331110016/https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/give-up-separate-barak-state-demand.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Saikia |first1=Arunabh |title=A tale of two valleys: What's behind the demand for a separate Union Territory in southern Assam? |url=https://scroll.in/article/863011/a-tale-of-two-valleys-whats-behind-the-demand-for-a-separate-union-territory-in-southern-assam |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Scroll.in |date=29 December 2017 |archive-date=28 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220628051038/https://scroll.in/article/863011/a-tale-of-two-valleys-whats-behind-the-demand-for-a-separate-union-territory-in-southern-assam |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Statehood sought for Assam's Barak Valley |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/statehood-sought-for-assams-barak-valley/article25373875.ece |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2018 |language=en-IN |archive-date=12 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220412040549/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/statehood-sought-for-assams-barak-valley/article25373875.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> In fact, the Assam's Southern part have an overall indigenous Bengali majority population, particularly ] have overall (54%) Bengali-speaking population,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Saha |first1=Abhishek |last2=Agarwala |first2=Tora |title=Deadline approaching: What it is to be a name on NRC list — or off it |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/assam-nrc-national-register-of-citizens-dhubri-hojai-5934188/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Indian Express |date=25 August 2019 |language=en |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230334/https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/assam-nrc-national-register-of-citizens-dhubri-hojai-5934188/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ] region have an overwhelming Bengali majority of about 80.3%, while ] have approximately 30.2% significant Bengali plurality on certain pockets specially in the urban areas of the district.<ref name="censusindia.gov.in"/>

'''Bodoland'''
{{Main article|Bodoland}}
]
The agitation for the creation of a separate ] state resulted in an agreement between the Indian Government, the Assam state government and the ]. According to the agreement made on 10 February 2003, the ], an entity subordinate to the government of Assam, was created to govern four districts covering 3082 ]-majority villages in Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/2003/02/26/stories/2003022600041000.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120905180331/http://www.hinduonnet.com/2003/02/26/stories/2003022600041000.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 September 2012 |title=The Hindu : Assam: accord and discord |publisher=Hinduonnet.com |access-date=4 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/memorandum_feb02.htm |title=Memorandum of Settlement on Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) |publisher=Satp.org |date=10 February 2003 |access-date=4 March 2012 |archive-date=8 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108080405/http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/memorandum_feb02.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Elections to the council were held on 13 May 2003, and ] was sworn in as the chief of the 46-member council on 4 June.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2005/06/04/stories/2005060401511300.htm | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050615084032/http://www.hindu.com/2005/06/04/stories/2005060401511300.htm | url-status=dead | archive-date=15 June 2005 |location=Chennai, India |work=] |title=Mahillary sworn in Bodoland council chief |date=4 June 2005}}</ref> Demographic wise, the Indigenous Bodo tribe constitutes half of the region's population, along with the region have also significant large number of other ethnic minorities which includes: Assamese, Koch Rajbangshi, Garo, Rabha tribe, Adivasis, Nepalis, Tea tribes, Bengalis, Biharis, Marwaris and Muslims.<ref name="censusindia.gov.in">{{cite web |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-16/DDW-C16-STMT-MDDS-1800.XLSX |title=Reference at censusindia.gov.in |access-date=11 October 2020 |archive-date=20 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020113828/https://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-16/DDW-C16-STMT-MDDS-1800.XLSX |url-status=live }}</ref>


'''Dimaraji''' '''Dimaraji'''
{{Main article|Dimaraji}} {{Main article|Dimaraji}}

] proposed state map]]
]

The ] of northeast India have been demanding a separate state called ] or "Dimaland" for several decades. It would comprise the ]-] inhabited areas, namely ], ], parts of ], ] and ] in Assam together with part of ] in ]. The ] of northeast India have been demanding a separate state called ] or "Dimaland" for several decades. It would comprise the ]-] inhabited areas, namely ], ], parts of ], ] and ] in Assam together with part of ] in ].


'''Barak state''' '''Karbiland'''
{{See also|Barak valley}} {{See also|Karbi Anglong}}
]
]


] is one of the 35 ] of Assam. Karbi Anglong was previously known as Mikir Hills. It was part of the Excluded Areas and Partially Excluded Areas (the present North East India) in British India. The British Indian government had never included this area under their government's jurisdiction. Thereby, no government development work or activity were done, nor any tax levied from the hills including Karbi Anglong. The first memorandum for a ] homeland was presented to Governor Reid on 28 October 1940 by ] and Khorsing Terang at Mohongdijua.<ref>Dharamsing Teron, "Opium Curse – A Forgotten Chapter", unpublished.</ref> The Karbi leaders were then, a part of the All Party Hill Leaders' Conference (APHLC) which was formed on 6 July 1960.<ref>J. I. Kathar (IAS Retd), "1971 Aningkan Kilik Kehai Un:e....", ''Thekar ''(5 February 2013); available from {{cite web |url=http://thekararnivang.com/2013/02/05/1971-aningkan-kilik-kehai-un-e-karbi-asongja-atum-karbi-atum-aphan-autonomous-state-kapelong-aphurkimo-2/ |title=Reference at thekararnivang.com| access-date = 14 August 2021| archive-date = 16 May 2018| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180516104826/http://thekararnivang.com/2013/02/05/1971-aningkan-kilik-kehai-un-e-karbi-asongja-atum-karbi-atum-aphan-autonomous-state-kapelong-aphurkimo-2/| url-status = dead}}</ref> The movement again gained momentum when the Karbi Anglong District Council passed a resolution demanding a Separate State in 1981. Then again from 1986 through the leadership of Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC), demanded Autonomous statehood of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao under Article 244(A). In 2002, the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council passed another resolution to press for the demand of statehood. Several other memoranda were submitted at different times by several organisations. The demand for a separate state turned violent on 31 July 2013 when student demonstrators set government buildings on fire. Following the incident, the elected leaders of Karbi Anglong jointly submitted a memorandum to the ] demanding a separate State. Demographic wise, more than half of the Karbi Anglong population is made up of Indigenous Karbi tribe with significant migrants from other parts of India.<ref name="censusindia.gov.in"/>
] first came into Assam's ] in 19th century A.D as per as various credible sources.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://karimganj.gov.in| title = Home {{!}} Karimganj District {{!}} Government Of Assam, India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Bangla_Language|title = Bangla Language - Banglapedia}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/44147998|jstor = 44147998|title = Introduction of the Bengali Language in 19|last1 = Majumdar|first1 = Paramananda|journal = Proceedings of the Indian History Congress|year = 2006|volume = 67|pages = 787–792}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.jmi.ac.in| title = Welcome to Jamia Millia Islamia - A Central University}} › uploadPDF
The Bengalis of Assam - Jamia Millia Islamia</ref> The ] of Assam comprising the present districts of ], ] and ] is contiguous to ] (Bengal plains), where the Bengali Hindus, according to historian J.B. Bhattacharjee, had settled well before the colonial period, influencing the culture of Dimasa Kacaharis.<ref name="Cachar">{{cite book |last1=Baruah |first1=Professor of Political Studies Sanjib |last2=Baruah |first2=Sanjib |title=India Against Itself: Assam and the Politics of Nationality |date=29 June 1999 |publisher=University of Pennsylvania Press |isbn=978-0-8122-3491-6 |page=103 |url=https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/India_Against_Itself/8k-irMMTnywC?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=bengalis+in+cachar&pg=PA103&printsec=frontcover |language=en}}</ref> Bhattacharjee describes that the Dimasa kings spoke Bengali and the inscriptions and coins written were in Bengali script.<ref name="Cachar" /> Migrations to Cachar increased after the British annexation of the region.<ref name="Cachar" />
The native ] of Assam demanded separate state for themselves within the Bengali majority areas of Assam particularly Bengali majority ] comprising three districts: ], ], ] along with ] and ] was also demanded to meet the criteria for creating a separate state for themselves by carving out from Assam's Assamese majority ] post ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Assam NRC LIVE: Not Hindus or Muslims, But Bengalis Being Targeted, Says Mamata |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/assam-nrc-live-not-hindus-or-muslims-but-bengalis-being-targeted-says-mamata-1827521.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=News18 |date=30 July 2018 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |agency=PTI |title=Exclusion of Hindu Bengalis from Assam NRC changing political |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/exclusion-of-hindu-bengalis-from-assam-nrc-changing-political-119092200259_1.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Business Standard |date=22 September 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=What the NRC reveals about the challenges of being Bengali in Assam |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/what-the-nrc-reveals-about-the-challenges-of-being-bengali-in-assam/story-WWTy7KEf4YQpTCZwoT9fEI.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Hindustan Times |date=7 September 2018 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Daniyal |first1=Shoaib |title='An expel Bengalis campaign': Opposing NRC in Assam, Mamata makes her strongest identity pitch yet |url=https://scroll.in/article/888680/an-expel-bengalis-campaign-opposing-assams-nrc-mamata-makes-her-strongest-identity-pitch-yet |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Scroll.in |date=31 July 2018}}</ref> ] is the proposed capital of Barak state.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.east-himalaya.com/silchar.php| title = One moment, please...}}</ref> Barak valley is the most neglected part of Assam in terms of its infrastructure development, tourism sector, educational institutions, hospitals, IT industries, G.D.P, H.D.I etc. which is still lagging behind in comparison to the Assam's mainland ] which have access to all of those facilities mentioned above.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mazumder |first1=Prasanta |title=Statehood demand grows louder in Assam's Barak Valley |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/jul/12/statehood-demand-grows-louder-in-assams-barak-valley-1842315.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=New Indian Express |date=12 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Barak organization demands creation of separate state - Sentinelassam |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/news/barak-organization-demands-creation-of-separate-state/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Sentinel |date=27 December 2016 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Give up separate Barak state demand: Sonowal to Dutta Roy |url=https://nenow.in/north-east-news/assam/give-up-separate-barak-state-demand.html |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Northeast Now |date=26 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Saikia |first1=Arunabh |title=A tale of two valleys: What's behind the demand for a separate Union Territory in southern Assam? |url=https://scroll.in/article/863011/a-tale-of-two-valleys-whats-behind-the-demand-for-a-separate-union-territory-in-southern-assam |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=Scroll.in |date=29 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Statehood sought for Assam's Barak Valley |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/statehood-sought-for-assams-barak-valley/article25373875.ece |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=30 October 2018 |language=en-IN}}</ref> In fact, the southern Assam have an overall indigenous Bengali majority population particularly ] have (95%) Bengali majority,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Saha |first1=Abhishek |last2=Agarwala |first2=Tora |title=Deadline approaching: What it is to be a name on NRC list — or off it |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/assam-nrc-national-register-of-citizens-dhubri-hojai-5934188/ |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Indian Express |date=25 August 2019 |language=en}}</ref> ] region have an overwhelming Bengali majority of about (80.3%), while ] have approximately (30.2%) significant Bengali plurality on certain pockets specially in the urban areas of the district.<ref name="censusindia.gov.in"/>


===Migration from Bangladesh=== ===Migration from Bangladesh===
Assam has been a major site of migration since the ] of the subcontinent, with the first wave being composed largely of ] ] arriving during and shortly after the establishment of India and Pakistan (current day Bangladesh was originally part of Pakistan, known as ]) in 1947–1951. Between the period of first patches (1946-1951), around 274,455 Bengali Hindu refugees have arrived from what is now called Bangladesh (former East Pakistan) in various locations of Assam as permanent settlers and again in second patches between (1952-1958) of the same decade, around 212,545 Bengali Hindus from Bangladesh took shelter in various parts of the state permanently.<ref>India (1951). "Annual Arrival of Refugees in Assam in 1946–1951". Census of India. XII, Part I (I-A): 353 – via web.archive.org.</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = http://iussp2005.princeton.edu| title = iussp2005}} › ...PDF Assam has been a major site of migration since the ] of the subcontinent, with the first wave being composed largely of ] ] arriving during and shortly after the establishment of India and Pakistan (current day Bangladesh was originally part of Pakistan, known as ]) in 1947–1951. Between the period of first patches (1946–1951), around 274,455 Bengali Hindu refugees have arrived from what is now called Bangladesh (former ]) in various locations of Assam as permanent settlers and again in second patches between (1952–1958) of the same decade, around 212,545 Bengali Hindus from Bangladesh took shelter in various parts of the state permanently.<ref>India (1951). "Annual Arrival of Refugees in Assam in 1946–1951". Census of India. XII, Part I (I-A): 353 – via web.archive.org.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://iussp2005.princeton.edu/ |title=iussp2005 |access-date=12 July 2021 |archive-date=29 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629180038/https://iussp2005.princeton.edu/ |url-status=live }} › ...PDF
The Brahmaputra valley of India can be compared only with the Indus ...</ref> After the ] many Bengali Hindus have poured into Assam as refugees and the number of Hindu migrants in the state rose to 1,068,455 in 1968 (sharply after 4 years of the riot).<ref>{{cite web|title=iussp2005|url=https://iussp2005.princeton.edu/|access-date=22 April 2021|website=iussp2005.princeton.edu}}</ref> The fourth patches numbering around 347,555 have just arrived after ] of 1971 as refugees and most of them being Bengali speaking Hindus have decided to stay back in Assam permanently afterwards.<ref>{{cite web|title=Adelaide Research & Scholarship: Home|url=https://digital.library.adelaide.edu.au/|access-date=22 April 2021|website=digital.library.adelaide.edu.au}}</ref> Though the governments of India and Bangladesh made agreements for the repatriation of certain groups of refugees after the second and third waves, a large presence of refugees and other migrants and their descendants remained in the state. Nevertheless, still people of Bangladesh have been immigrating to Assam on regular basis. As per reports, about 635 of Bangladeshi people mostly Hindus, use to immigrate to Assam daily.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.pratidintime.com/bangladeshi-people-come-to-assam-regularly-national-hindu-mahasabha/amp/| title = Bangladeshi people come to Assam regularly: National Hindu Mahasabha - Pratidin Time |access-date=25 May 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |agency=PTI |title=No Hindus will be left in Bangladesh after 30 years: professor |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/No-Hindus-will-be-left-in-Bangladesh-after-30-years-professor/article16675228.ece |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=22 November 2016 |language=en-IN}}</ref> The Brahmaputra valley of India can be compared only with the Indus ...</ref> After the ] many Bengali Hindus have poured into Assam as refugees and the number of Hindu migrants in the state rose to 1,068,455 in 1968 (sharply after 4 years of the riot).<ref>{{cite web |title=iussp2005 |url=https://iussp2005.princeton.edu/ |access-date=22 April 2021 |website=iussp2005.princeton.edu |archive-date=22 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422052125/https://iussp2005.princeton.edu/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The fourth patches numbering around 347,555 have just arrived after ] of 1971 as refugees and most of them being Bengali speaking Hindus have decided to stay back in Assam permanently afterwards.<ref>{{cite web |title=Adelaide Research & Scholarship: Home |url=https://digital.library.adelaide.edu.au/ |access-date=22 April 2021 |website=digital.library.adelaide.edu.au |archive-date=19 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419004649/https://digital.library.adelaide.edu.au/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Though the governments of India and Bangladesh made agreements for the repatriation of certain groups of refugees after the second and third waves, a large presence of refugees and other migrants and their descendants remained in the state. Nevertheless, still people of Bangladesh have been immigrating to Assam on regular basis. As per reports, about 635 of Bangladeshi people mostly Hindus, use to immigrate to Assam daily.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pratidintime.com/bangladeshi-people-come-to-assam-regularly-national-hindu-mahasabha/amp/ |title=Bangladeshi people come to Assam regularly: National Hindu Mahasabha - Pratidin Time |access-date=25 May 2022 |archive-date=19 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719121641/https://www.pratidintime.com/bangladeshi-people-come-to-assam-regularly-national-hindu-mahasabha/amp/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |agency=PTI |title=No Hindus will be left in Bangladesh after 30 years: professor |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/No-Hindus-will-be-left-in-Bangladesh-after-30-years-professor/article16675228.ece |access-date=25 May 2022 |work=The Hindu |date=22 November 2016 |language=en-IN |archive-date=31 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331110048/https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/No-Hindus-will-be-left-in-Bangladesh-after-30-years-professor/article16675228.ece |url-status=live }}</ref>


Besides migration caused by displacement, there is also a large and continual unregulated movement between Assam and neighboring regions of Bangladesh with an exceptionally porous border. The situation is called a risk to Assam's as well as India's security.<ref>{{cite magazine|date=4 June 2014|title=Illegal immigration from Bangladesh a national problem|url=http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html|magazine=India Today|access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref> The continual ] of people into Assam, mostly from ], has caused economic upheaval and social and political unrest.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210114855/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 December 2014 |title=Soon blueprint to deport illegal Bangladeshis in Assam |work=Hindustan Times|date=10 December 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm#MIGRATION%20INTO%20ASSAM|title=Illegal Migration into Assam|website=www.satp.org|access-date=9 September 2019}}</ref> During the ] (1979–1985), the ] (AASU) and others demanded that government stop the influx of ] and ] those who had already settled.<ref name="Illegal Migration into Assam">{{cite web|url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm|title=Illegal Migration into Assam|website=www.satp.org|access-date=18 August 2019}}</ref> During this period, 855 people (the AASU says 860) died in various conflicts with migrants and police.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://assamaccord.assam.gov.in/information-services/martyrs-of-assam-agitation|title=Martyrs of Assam Agitation {{!}} Implementation of Assam Accord {{!}} Government of Assam, India|website=assamaccord.assam.gov.in|access-date=18 August 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/assam-prafulla-mahanta-not-to-campaign-for-agp-to-protest-alliance-with-bjp/cid/1686834|title=Assam: Prafulla Mahanta not to campaign for AGP to protest alliance with BJP|website=www.telegraphindia.com|access-date=18 August 2019}}</ref> The 1983 Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act, applied only to Assam, decreed that any person who entered the Assam after Bangladesh declared independence from Pakistan in 1971 and without authorisation or travel documents is to be considered a foreigner, with the decision on foreigner status to be carried out by designated tribunals. In 1985, the ] and leaders of the agitation signed the ] to settle the conflict.<ref name="Illegal Migration into Assam" /> Besides migration caused by displacement, there is also a large and continual unregulated movement between Assam and neighbouring regions of Bangladesh with an exceptionally porous border. The situation is called a risk to Assam's as well as India's security.<ref>{{cite magazine |date=4 June 2014 |title=Illegal immigration from Bangladesh a national problem |url=http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html |magazine=India Today |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-date=25 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925135012/http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The continual ] of people into Assam, mostly from ], has caused economic upheaval and social and political unrest.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210114855/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 December 2014 |title=Soon blueprint to deport illegal Bangladeshis in Assam |work=Hindustan Times |date=10 December 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm#MIGRATION%20INTO%20ASSAM |title=Illegal Migration into Assam |website=www.satp.org |access-date=9 September 2019 |archive-date=7 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207071852/http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm#MIGRATION%20INTO%20ASSAM |url-status=live }}</ref> During the ] (1979–1985), the ] (AASU) and others demanded that government stop the influx of ] and ] those who had already settled.<ref name="Illegal Migration into Assam">{{cite web |url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm |title=Illegal Migration into Assam |website=www.satp.org |access-date=18 August 2019 |archive-date=7 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207071852/http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/illegal_migration_in_assam.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> During this period, 855 people (the AASU says 860) died in various conflicts with migrants and police.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://assamaccord.assam.gov.in/information-services/martyrs-of-assam-agitation|title=Martyrs of Assam Agitation {{!}} Implementation of Assam Accord {{!}} Government of Assam, India|website=assamaccord.assam.gov.in|access-date=18 August 2019|archive-date=25 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125104516/https://assamaccord.assam.gov.in/information-services/martyrs-of-assam-agitation|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/assam-prafulla-mahanta-not-to-campaign-for-agp-to-protest-alliance-with-bjp/cid/1686834 |title=Assam: Prafulla Mahanta not to campaign for AGP to protest alliance with BJP |website=www.telegraphindia.com |access-date=18 August 2019 |archive-date=5 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190705144401/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/assam-prafulla-mahanta-not-to-campaign-for-agp-to-protest-alliance-with-bjp/cid/1686834 |url-status=live }}</ref> The 1983 Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act, applied only to Assam, decreed that any person who entered the Assam after Bangladesh declared independence from Pakistan in 1971 and without authorisation or travel documents is to be considered a foreigner, with the decision on foreigner status to be carried out by designated tribunals. In 1985, the ] and leaders of the agitation signed the ] to settle the conflict.<ref name="Illegal Migration into Assam" />


The 1991 census made the changing demographics of border districts more visible.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://voi.org/books/tfst/appii1.htm|title=1. Population Explosion in West Bengal: A Survey|date=20 March 2012|access-date=18 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320024437/http://voi.org/books/tfst/appii1.htm|archive-date=20 March 2012}}</ref><ref name="Illegal Migration into Assam" /> Since 2010, the Indian Government has undertaken the updating of the ], and in 2018 the 32.2 million residents of Assam were subject to a review of their citizenship.<ref>{{cite web|date=10 August 2020|title=The National Register of Citizens and India's commitment deficit to international law|url=https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/humanrights/2020/08/10/the-national-register-of-citizens-and-indias-commitment-deficit-to-international-law/|access-date=4 December 2020|website=LSE Human Rights}}</ref> In August 2019, India released the names of the 2 million residents of Assam that had been determined to be non-citizens and whose names had therefore been struck off the Register of Citizens, depriving them of rights and making them subject to action, and potentially leaving some of them stateless, and the government has begun deporting non-citizens, while detaining 1,000 others that same year.<ref>{{cite news|date=2 June 2014|title=Leave in 15 days, BJP MPs tell illegal immigrants in Assam|work=Firstpost|url=http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html|access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=31 August 2019|title=Assam NRC: What next for 1.9 million 'stateless' Indians?|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-49520593|access-date=4 December 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-politics-citizenship-idUSKCN1VL04W|title=India leaves nearly two million people off citizens' list, fate...|date=31 August 2019|work=Reuters|access-date=2 September 2019}}</ref> The 1991 census made the changing demographics of border districts more visible.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://voi.org/books/tfst/appii1.htm |title=1. Population Explosion in West Bengal: A Survey |date=20 March 2012|access-date=18 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320024437/http://voi.org/books/tfst/appii1.htm|archive-date=20 March 2012}}</ref><ref name="Illegal Migration into Assam" /> Since 2010, the Indian Government has undertaken the updating of the ], and in 2018 the 32.2 million residents of Assam were subject to a review of their citizenship.<ref>{{cite web |date=10 August 2020 |title=The National Register of Citizens and India's commitment deficit to international law |url=https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/humanrights/2020/08/10/the-national-register-of-citizens-and-indias-commitment-deficit-to-international-law/ |access-date=4 December 2020 |website=LSE Human Rights |archive-date=14 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114005200/https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/humanrights/2020/08/10/the-national-register-of-citizens-and-indias-commitment-deficit-to-international-law/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In August 2019, India released the names of the 2 million residents of Assam that had been determined to be non-citizens and whose names had therefore been struck off the Register of Citizens, depriving them of rights and making them subject to action, and potentially leaving some of them stateless, and the government has begun deporting non-citizens, while detaining 1,000 others that same year.<ref>{{cite news |date=2 June 2014 |title=Leave in 15 days, BJP MPs tell illegal immigrants in Assam |work=Firstpost |url=http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-date=25 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925103455/http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=31 August 2019 |title=Assam NRC: What next for 1.9 million 'stateless' Indians? |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-49520593 |access-date=4 December 2020 |archive-date=15 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115123645/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-49520593 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-politics-citizenship-idUSKCN1VL04W |title=India leaves nearly two million people off citizens' list, fate... |date=31 August 2019 |work=Reuters |access-date=2 September 2019 |archive-date=1 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190901193524/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-politics-citizenship-idUSKCN1VL04W |url-status=live }}</ref>


In January 2019, the Assam's peasant organisation ] (KMSS) claimed that there are around 20 ] ] in Assam who would become Indian citizens if the ] is passed. ], however claimed that only eight lakh Hindu Bangladeshis will get citizenship.<ref>{{cite news |title=20 lakh Bangladeshi Hindus to become Indians if Citizenship Bill is passed: Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/20-lakh-bangladeshi-hindus-to-become-indians-if-citizenship-bill-is-passed-krishak-mukti-sangram-samiti/articleshow/67574226.cms?from=mdr |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=The Economic Times |date=17 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Saikia |first1=Arunabh |title=Bengali Hindus in this Assam village live the anxious life of 'NRC rejects' |url=https://scroll.in/article/971038/residents-of-this-bengali-speaking-hindu-village-in-assam-live-the-anxious-life-of-nrc-rejects |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=Scroll.in |date=30 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Tewari |first1=Ruhi |title=Bengali Hindus in Assam look at Citizenship Bill to get out of NRC mess |url=https://theprint.in/india/bengali-hindus-in-assam-look-at-citizenship-bill-to-get-out-of-nrc-mess/287076/ |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=ThePrint |date=5 September 2019}}</ref> According to various sources, the total number of illegal Hindu Bangladeshis is hard to ascertain.<ref>{{cite news |title=Confusion, hope run high among Assam's Hindu Bengalis |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/east-and-northeast/confusion-hope-run-high-among-assams-hindu-bengalis-786418.html |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=Deccan Herald |date=17 December 2019 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="FP">{{cite news |title=Citizenship Amendment Act: BJP chasing ghosts in Assam; Census data shows number of Hindu immigrants may have been exaggerated - India News, Firstpost |url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/citizenship-amendment-bill-bjp-chasing-ghosts-in-assam-as-census-data-shows-number-of-hindu-immigrants-couldve-been-exaggerated-5640511.html |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=Firstpost |date=18 December 2019}}</ref> According to the ], the number of Hindu immigrants have been largely exaggerated.<ref name="FP"/> In January 2019, the Assam's peasant organisation ] (KMSS) claimed that there are around 20 ] ] in Assam who would become Indian citizens if the ] is passed. ], however claimed that only eight lakh Hindu Bangladeshis will get citizenship.<ref>{{cite news |title=20 lakh Bangladeshi Hindus to become Indians if Citizenship Bill is passed: Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/20-lakh-bangladeshi-hindus-to-become-indians-if-citizenship-bill-is-passed-krishak-mukti-sangram-samiti/articleshow/67574226.cms |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=The Economic Times |date=17 January 2019 |archive-date=12 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112021109/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/20-lakh-bangladeshi-hindus-to-become-indians-if-citizenship-bill-is-passed-krishak-mukti-sangram-samiti/articleshow/67574226.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Saikia |first1=Arunabh |title=Bengali Hindus in this Assam village live the anxious life of 'NRC rejects' |url=https://scroll.in/article/971038/residents-of-this-bengali-speaking-hindu-village-in-assam-live-the-anxious-life-of-nrc-rejects |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=Scroll.in |date=30 August 2020 |archive-date=27 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027145241/https://scroll.in/article/971038/residents-of-this-bengali-speaking-hindu-village-in-assam-live-the-anxious-life-of-nrc-rejects |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Tewari |first1=Ruhi |title=Bengali Hindus in Assam look at Citizenship Bill to get out of NRC mess |url=https://theprint.in/india/bengali-hindus-in-assam-look-at-citizenship-bill-to-get-out-of-nrc-mess/287076/ |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=ThePrint |date=5 September 2019 |archive-date=25 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025230949/https://theprint.in/india/bengali-hindus-in-assam-look-at-citizenship-bill-to-get-out-of-nrc-mess/287076/ |url-status=live }}</ref> According to various sources, the total number of illegal Hindu Bangladeshis is hard to ascertain.<ref>{{cite news |title=Confusion, hope run high among Assam's Hindu Bengalis |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/east-and-northeast/confusion-hope-run-high-among-assams-hindu-bengalis-786418.html |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=Deccan Herald |date=17 December 2019 |language=en |archive-date=25 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025160713/https://www.deccanherald.com/national/east-and-northeast/confusion-hope-run-high-among-assams-hindu-bengalis-786418.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="FP">{{cite news |title=Citizenship Amendment Act: BJP chasing ghosts in Assam; Census data shows number of Hindu immigrants may have been exaggerated |url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/citizenship-amendment-bill-bjp-chasing-ghosts-in-assam-as-census-data-shows-number-of-hindu-immigrants-couldve-been-exaggerated-5640511.html |access-date=3 November 2020 |work=Firstpost |date=18 December 2019 |archive-date=25 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725082148/https://www.firstpost.com/india/citizenship-amendment-bill-bjp-chasing-ghosts-in-assam-as-census-data-shows-number-of-hindu-immigrants-couldve-been-exaggerated-5640511.html |url-status=live }}</ref> According to the ], the number of Hindu immigrants have been largely exaggerated.<ref name="FP"/>


In February 2020, the Assam Minority Development Board announced plans to segregate illegal Bangladeshi Muslim immigrants from the indigenous Muslims of the state, though some have expressed problems in identifying an indigenous Muslim person. According to the board, there are 1.4 ] Muslims in the state, of which 1 crore are of Bangladeshi origin.<ref>{{cite news |title=BJP wants to segregate Assamese Muslims from Bangladeshi Muslims, but some ask how|url=https://theprint.in/india/bjp-wants-to-segregate-assamese-muslims-from-bangladeshi-muslims-but-some-ask-how/363736/?amp |first=Mytithili |last=Hazarika|access-date=4 November 2020 |work=The Print |date=12 February 2020 |language=en-IN}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Assam plans survey to identify indigenous Muslim population |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/assam-plans-survey-to-identify-indigenous-muslim-population/article30780667.ece |last=PTI |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=The Hindu |date=10 February 2020 |language=en-IN}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/online-census-of-assamese-muslims-launched/article34325747.ece|title = Online census of Assamese Muslims launched|newspaper = The Hindu|date = 15 April 2021}}</ref> A report reveals that out of total 33 districts in Assam, Bangladeshis dominate almost 15 districts of Assam.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiablooms.com/news-details/N/34467/hari-shankar-brahma-report-reveals-illegal-bangladeshis-dominates-15-out-of-33-assam-districts-massive-threats-to-indigenous-people.html|title = Hari Shankar Brahma report reveals illegal Bangladeshis dominates 15 out of 33 Assam districts, massive threats to indigenous people &#124; Indiablooms - First Portal on Digital News Management}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/india/muslim-majority-districts-in-assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms|title = Muslim majority districts in Assam up &#124; India News - Times of India|website = ]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/politics/assam-elections-2021-how-muslims-of-the-state-one-third-of-electorate-voted-in-2016-and-2019-6714131.html|title = Assam Elections 2021 &#124; How Muslims of the State, One-third of Electorate, Voted in 2016 and 2019}}</ref> In February 2020, the Assam Minority Development Board announced plans to segregate illegal Bangladeshi Muslim immigrants from the indigenous Muslims of the state, though some have expressed problems in identifying an indigenous Muslim person. According to the board, there are 1.4 ] Muslims in the state, of which 1 crore are of Bangladeshi origin.<ref>{{cite news |title=BJP wants to segregate Assamese Muslims from Bangladeshi Muslims, but some ask how |url=https://theprint.in/india/bjp-wants-to-segregate-assamese-muslims-from-bangladeshi-muslims-but-some-ask-how/363736/?amp |first=Mytithili |last=Hazarika |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=The Print |date=12 February 2020 |language=en-IN |archive-date=27 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227034321/https://theprint.in/india/bjp-wants-to-segregate-assamese-muslims-from-bangladeshi-muslims-but-some-ask-how/363736/?amp |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Assam plans survey to identify indigenous Muslim population |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/assam-plans-survey-to-identify-indigenous-muslim-population/article30780667.ece |last=PTI |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=The Hindu |date=10 February 2020 |language=en-IN |archive-date=16 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416195642/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/assam-plans-survey-to-identify-indigenous-muslim-population/article30780667.ece |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/online-census-of-assamese-muslims-launched/article34325747.ece |title=Online census of Assamese Muslims launched |newspaper=The Hindu |date=15 April 2021 |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=16 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516152722/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/online-census-of-assamese-muslims-launched/article34325747.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> A report reveals that out of total 33 districts in Assam, Bangladeshis dominate almost 15 districts of Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indiablooms.com/news-details/N/34467/hari-shankar-brahma-report-reveals-illegal-bangladeshis-dominates-15-out-of-33-assam-districts-massive-threats-to-indigenous-people.html |title=Hari Shankar Brahma report reveals illegal Bangladeshis dominates 15 out of 33 Assam districts, massive threats to indigenous people &#124; Indiablooms - First Portal on Digital News Management |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=24 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524123719/https://www.indiablooms.com/news-details/N/34467/hari-shankar-brahma-report-reveals-illegal-bangladeshis-dominates-15-out-of-33-assam-districts-massive-threats-to-indigenous-people.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/muslim-majority-districts-in-assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms |title=Muslim majority districts in Assam up &#124; India News |website=] |date=26 August 2015 |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=2 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902032515/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/muslim-majority-districts-in-assam-up/articleshow/48682463.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/politics/assam-elections-2021-how-muslims-of-the-state-one-third-of-electorate-voted-in-2016-and-2019-6714131.html |title=Assam Elections 2021 &#124; How Muslims of the State, One-third of Electorate, Voted in 2016 and 2019 |date=31 March 2021 |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=24 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524123716/https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/politics/assam-elections-2021-how-muslims-of-the-state-one-third-of-electorate-voted-in-2016-and-2019-6714131.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


===Floods=== ===Floods===
{{Main|Brahmaputra floods}} {{Main|Brahmaputra floods}}
In the rainy season every year, the Brahmaputra and other rivers overflow their banks and flood adjacent land. Flood waters wash away property including houses and livestock. Damage to crops and fields harms the agricultural sector. Bridges, railway tracks, and roads are also damaged, harming transportation and communication, and in some years requiring food to be air-dropped to isolated towns. Some deaths are attributed to the floods.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |title=Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13 |publisher=NDTV |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/flood-situation-in-assam-worsens-7-dead-over-650-000-displaced/article1-1383226.aspx |title=Flood situation in Assam worsens |work=Hindustan Times|date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> In the rainy season every year, the Brahmaputra and other rivers overflow their banks and flood adjacent land. Flood waters wash away property including houses and livestock. Damage to crops and fields harms the agricultural sector. Bridges, railway tracks, and roads are also damaged, harming transportation and communication, and in some years requiring food to be air-dropped to isolated towns. Some deaths are attributed to the floods.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |title=Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13 |publisher=NDTV |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-date=24 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824155525/http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/flood-situation-in-assam-worsens-7-dead-over-650-000-displaced/article1-1383226.aspx |title=Flood situation in Assam worsens |work=Hindustan Times |date=23 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>


===Unemployment=== ===Unemployment===
] is a chronic problem in Assam. It is variously blamed on poor ], limited connectivity, and government policy;<ref>{{cite news|url=http://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/indicators/Poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-Assams-growth-Assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |title=Poor infrastructure, stringent policies bottleneck for Assam's growth |work=The Economic Times|date=9 July 2015 |access-date=17 November 2019}}</ref> on a "poor work culture";<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |title=Panel for study of unemployment problem in Assam |publisher=Zee News |date=26 October 2012 |access-date=17 November 2019}}</ref> on failure to advertise vacancies;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713/at098 |title=Govt inaction deprives local aspirants |first=Shivasish |last=Thakur |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=17 October 2013 |access-date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200248/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713%2Fat098 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and on government hiring candidates from outside Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114/city07 |title=80% of Central jobs occupied by outsiders |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=21 January 2014 |access-date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200246/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114%2Fcity07 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ] is a chronic problem in Assam. It is variously blamed on poor ], limited connectivity, and government policy;<ref>{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/Poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-Assams-growth-Assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |title=Poor infrastructure, stringent policies bottleneck for Assam's growth |work=The Economic Times |date=9 July 2015 |access-date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=26 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826135157/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-assams-growth-assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> on a "poor work culture";<ref>{{cite web |url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |title=Panel for study of unemployment problem in Assam |publisher=Zee News |date=26 October 2012 |access-date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=25 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925135649/http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |url-status=live }}</ref> on failure to advertise vacancies;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713/at098 |title=Govt inaction deprives local aspirants |first=Shivasish |last=Thakur |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=17 October 2013 |access-date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200248/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713%2Fat098 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and on government hiring candidates from outside Assam.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114/city07 |title=80% of Central jobs occupied by outsiders |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=21 January 2014 |access-date=17 November 2019 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200246/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114%2Fcity07 |url-status=dead}}</ref>


In 2020 a series of ] occurred in the region. In 2020 a series of ] occurred in the region.
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File:Jec frontview.jpg|] of ] File:Jec frontview.jpg|] of ]
</gallery> </gallery>
Assam schools are run by the Indian government, government of Assam or by private organisations. Medium of instruction is mainly in Assamese, English or Bengali. Most of the schools follow the state's examination board which is called the ]. Almost all private schools follow the ] (CBSE), ] (ICSE) and ] (ISC) syllabuses.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} Assam schools are run by the Indian government, government of Assam or by private organisations. Medium of instruction is mainly in Assamese, English or Bengali. Most of the schools follow the state's examination board which is called the ]. All schools under ] are assessed by ] .Almost all private schools follow the ] (CBSE), ] (ICSE) and ] (ISC) syllabuses.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


Assamese language is the main medium in educational institutions but ] is also taught as a major ]. In Guwahati and Digboi, many Jr. basic schools and Jr. high schools are Nepali linguistic and all the teachers are ]. ] is included by Assam State Secondary Board, ] and ] in their HSLC, higher secondary and graduation level respectively. In some junior basic and higher secondary schools and colleges, Nepali teachers and lecturers are appointed.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} Assamese language is the main medium in educational institutions but ] is also taught as a major ]. In Guwahati and Digboi, many Jr. basic schools and Jr. high schools are Nepali linguistic and all the teachers are ]. ] is included by Assam State Secondary Board, ] and ] in their HSLC, higher secondary and graduation level respectively. In some junior basic and higher secondary schools and colleges, Nepali teachers and lecturers are appointed.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}
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* ] * ]
* ], ] * ], ]
* ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dbuniversity.ac.in/index.php |title=Don Bosco University – Azara – Guwahati – Welcome to Don Bosco University |publisher=Dbuniversity.ac.in |access-date=22 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110807103907/http://www.dbuniversity.ac.in/index.php |archive-date=7 August 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dbuniversity.ac.in/index.php |title=Don Bosco University – Azara – Guwahati – Welcome to Don Bosco University |publisher=Dbuniversity.ac.in |access-date=22 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110807103907/http://www.dbuniversity.ac.in/index.php |archive-date=7 August 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.adtu.in/|publisher=adtu.in|title=Assam Down Town University|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110913010242/http://www.adtu.in/|archive-date=13 September 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.adtu.in/ |publisher=adtu.in |title=Assam Down Town University|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110913010242/http://www.adtu.in/|archive-date=13 September 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ], (ARGUCOM), Sivasagar * ], (ARGUCOM), Sivasagar
* ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://astu.ac.in/astu/ |title=Assam Science and Technology University - Home |access-date=23 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423170740/https://astu.ac.in/astu/ |archive-date=23 April 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ] * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://astu.ac.in/astu/ |title=Assam Science and Technology University - Home |access-date=23 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423170740/https://astu.ac.in/astu/ |archive-date=23 April 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref> ]
* ],<ref>{{cite web | url=http://awu.ac.in | title=Assam Women's University | publisher=Assam Women's University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220050933/http://www.awu.ac.in/ | archive-date=20 December 2015 | url-status=live | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Jorhat * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://awu.ac.in |title=Assam Women's University |publisher=Assam Women's University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220050933/http://www.awu.ac.in/ | archive-date=20 December 2015 | url-status=live }}</ref> Jorhat
* ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bodolanduniversity.org.in/|publisher=bodolanduniversity.org.in|title=Bodoland University website|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419202453/http://bodolanduniversity.org.in/|archive-date=19 April 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Kokrajhar * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bodolanduniversity.org.in/ |publisher=bodolanduniversity.org.in |title=Bodoland University website|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419202453/http://bodolanduniversity.org.in/|archive-date=19 April 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Kokrajhar
* ], Guwahati * ], Guwahati
* ],<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dibru.ac.in | title=Dibrugarh University | publisher=Dibrugarh University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810104814/http://www.dibru.ac.in/ | archive-date=10 August 2015 | url-status=live | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Dibrugarh * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dibru.ac.in |title=Dibrugarh University |publisher=Dibrugarh University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810104814/http://www.dibru.ac.in/ | archive-date=10 August 2015 | url-status=live }}</ref> Dibrugarh
* ],<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gauhati.ac.in | title=Gauhati University | publisher=Gauhati University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810042834/http://www.gauhati.ac.in/ | archive-date=10 August 2015 | url-status=live | df=dmy-all }}</ref> ] * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gauhati.ac.in |title=Gauhati University |publisher=Gauhati University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810042834/http://www.gauhati.ac.in/ | archive-date=10 August 2015 | url-status=live }}</ref> ]
* ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kazirangauniversity.in/|publisher=kazirangauniversity.in|title=Kaziranga University|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103005719/http://kazirangauniversity.in/|archive-date=3 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Jorhat * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kazirangauniversity.in/ |publisher=kazirangauniversity.in |title=Kaziranga University|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103005719/http://kazirangauniversity.in/|archive-date=3 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Jorhat
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://nluassam.ac.in | title=National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam | publisher=National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam}}</ref> * ]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nluassam.ac.in/ |title=National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam |publisher=National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam |access-date=11 May 2019 |archive-date=11 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190511082316/http://nluassam.ac.in/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ],<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.tezu.ernet.in | title=Tezpur University | publisher=Tezpur University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810115112/http://www.tezu.ernet.in/ | archive-date=10 August 2015 | url-status=live | df=dmy-all }}</ref> ] * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tezu.ernet.in |title=Tezpur University |publisher=Tezpur University | access-date=7 August 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810115112/http://www.tezu.ernet.in/ | archive-date=10 August 2015 | url-status=live }}</ref> ]


=== Medical colleges === === Medical colleges ===
*], ]
* ], ] * ], ]
* ], ] *], ]
* ], ]
* ], ] * ], ]
* ], ] * ], ]
*], ]
* ], ] * ], ]
* ] & Hospital, ] * ] & Hospital, ]
*], ]
* ], ]
* ], ]
*], ]
* ], ]
*], ]

Assam has 12 medical colleges at present with 4 more scheduled to be completed by 2026–27.


=== Engineering and technological colleges === === Engineering and technological colleges ===
* ] in ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://iitg.ac.in/ |title=Indian Institute of Technology |access-date=20 October 2021 |archive-date=20 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020151140/https://iitg.ac.in/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ] * ]
* ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nits.ac.in/ |title=National Institute of Technology, Silchar |access-date=17 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821141331/http://www.nits.ac.in/ |archive-date=21 August 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> * ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nits.ac.in/ |title=National Institute of Technology, Silchar |access-date=17 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821141331/http://www.nits.ac.in/ |archive-date=21 August 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* ], ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aec.ac.in/|title=Assam Engineering College}}</ref> * ], ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aec.ac.in/ |title=Assam Engineering College |access-date=20 October 2021 |archive-date=20 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020151148/https://aec.ac.in/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ] * ]
* ], ] * ], ]
* ], ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://cit.ac.in/|title=Central Institute of Technology}}</ref> * ], ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://cit.ac.in/ |title=Central Institute of Technology |access-date=20 October 2021 |archive-date=20 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020151142/https://cit.ac.in/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ], ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gimt-guwahati.ac.in//|title=Girijananda Chowdhury Institute of Management & Technology|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814104435/http://www.gimt-guwahati.ac.in/|archive-date=14 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
* ], ]
* ] in ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://iitg.ac.in/|title=Indian Institute of Technology}}</ref>
* Institute of Engineering and Technology, ] * Institute of Engineering and Technology, ]
* Institute of Science and Technology, ] * Institute of Science and Technology, ]
* ], ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://jecassam.ac.in//|title=Jorhat Engineering College}}</ref> * ], ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://jecassam.ac.in// |title=Jorhat Engineering College |access-date=20 October 2021 |archive-date=20 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020151142/https://jecassam.ac.in// |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ], ] * ], ]
* ], {{citation needed|date=August 2015}} * ], {{citation needed|date=August 2015}}
* ] Nirala ] * ] Nirala ]
* ] ] * ], ]


Research institutes present in the state include National Research Centre on Pig, (ICAR) in Guwahati,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nrcp.in/|title=National Research Centre on Pig, (ICAR) in Guwahati|access-date=16 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019122751/http://www.nrcp.in/|archive-date=19 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Research institutes present in the state include National Research Centre on Pig, (ICAR) in Guwahati,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nrcp.in/ |title=National Research Centre on Pig, (ICAR) in Guwahati|access-date=16 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019122751/http://www.nrcp.in/|archive-date=19 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>


== Economy == == Economy ==
{{Main|Economy of Assam}} {{Main|Economy of Assam}}
] ]
Assam's economy is based on agriculture and oil. Assam produces more than half of India's tea.<ref>{{cite web |author=Indian Tea Association |title=Tea Scenario |url=http://www.indiatea.org/tea_sencor.php| access-date = 19 April 2015| url-status=dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150301002205/http://www.indiatea.org/tea_sencor.php| archive-date = 1 March 2015 }}</ref> The Assam-Arakan basin holds about a quarter of the country's oil reserves, and produces about 12% of its total petroleum.<ref>{{cite web |author=U.S. Energy Information Administration |title=India – Analysis |url=http://www.eia.gov/countries/cab.cfm?fips=in| access-date = 19 April 2015| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150412003452/http://www.eia.gov/countries/cab.cfm?fips=IN| archive-date = 12 April 2015| url-status=live }}</ref> According to the recent estimates,<ref name="government2005">{{cite web |author=Government of Assam |title=Economic Survey of Assam 2005–2006 in NEDFi, Assam Profile, NER Databank |url=http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4| access-date =6 June 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081231164030/http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4|archive-date=31 December 2008}}</ref> Assam's per capita GDP is ]6,157 at constant prices (1993–94) and ]10,198 at current prices; almost 40% lower than that in India.<ref>{{cite book |author=Government of Assam |title=Economic Survey of Assam 2001–2002 in Assam Human Development Report, 2003 |page=25 |chapter-url=http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |chapter=2, Income, Employment and Poverty |chapter-format=PDF |access-date=6 June 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220213032/http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |archive-date=20 February 2007}}</ref> According to the recent estimates,<ref name="government2005" /> per capita income in Assam has reached ]6756 (1993–94 constant prices) in 2004–05, which is still much lower than India's.
Assam's economy is based on agriculture and oil. Assam produces more than half of India's tea.<ref>{{cite web
| author = Indian Tea Association
| title = Tea Scenario
| url = http://www.indiatea.org/tea_sencor.php
| access-date = 19 April 2015
| url-status=dead
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150301002205/http://www.indiatea.org/tea_sencor.php
| archive-date = 1 March 2015
| df = dmy-all
}}</ref> The Assam-Arakan basin holds about a quarter of the country's oil reserves, and produces about 12% of its total petroleum.<ref>{{cite web
| author = U.S. Energy Information Administration
| title = India – Analysis
| url = http://www.eia.gov/countries/cab.cfm?fips=in
| access-date = 19 April 2015
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150412003452/http://www.eia.gov/countries/cab.cfm?fips=IN
| archive-date = 12 April 2015
| url-status=live
| df = dmy-all
}}</ref> According to the recent estimates,<ref name="government2005">{{cite web
| author=Government of Assam
| title = Economic Survey of Assam 2005–2006 in NEDFi, Assam Profile, NER Databank
| url = http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4
| access-date =6 June 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081231164030/http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4|archive-date=31 December 2008}}</ref> Assam's per capita GDP is ]6,157 at constant prices (1993–94) and ]10,198 at current prices; almost 40% lower than that in India.<ref>{{cite book|author=Government of Assam |title=Economic Survey of Assam 2001–2002 in Assam Human Development Report, 2003 |page=25 |chapter-url=http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |chapter=2, Income, Employment and Poverty |chapter-format=PDF |access-date=6 June 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220213032/http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |archive-date=20 February 2007 }}</ref> According to the recent estimates,<ref name="government2005" /> per capita income in Assam has reached ]6756 (1993–94 constant prices) in 2004–05, which is still much lower than India's.


] ]
Line 810: Line 774:
The economy of Assam today represents a unique juxtaposition of backwardness amidst plenty.<ref>National Commission for Women 2004</ref>{{full citation needed|date=May 2022}} Despite its rich natural resources, and supplying of up to 25% of India's petroleum needs, Assam's growth rate has not kept pace with that of India; the difference has increased rapidly since the 1970s.<ref name="AHDR2003">UNDP 2004, pp. 22–23</ref> The Indian economy grew at 6% per annum over the period of 1981 to 2000; the growth rate of Assam was only 3.3%.<ref>UNDP 2004, p. 22</ref> In the Sixth Plan period, Assam experienced a negative growth rate of 3.78% when India's was positive at 6%.<ref name="AHDR2003" /> In the post-liberalised era (after 1991), the difference widened further. The economy of Assam today represents a unique juxtaposition of backwardness amidst plenty.<ref>National Commission for Women 2004</ref>{{full citation needed|date=May 2022}} Despite its rich natural resources, and supplying of up to 25% of India's petroleum needs, Assam's growth rate has not kept pace with that of India; the difference has increased rapidly since the 1970s.<ref name="AHDR2003">UNDP 2004, pp. 22–23</ref> The Indian economy grew at 6% per annum over the period of 1981 to 2000; the growth rate of Assam was only 3.3%.<ref>UNDP 2004, p. 22</ref> In the Sixth Plan period, Assam experienced a negative growth rate of 3.78% when India's was positive at 6%.<ref name="AHDR2003" /> In the post-liberalised era (after 1991), the difference widened further.


According to recent analysis, Assam's economy is showing signs of improvement. In 2001–02, the economy grew (at 1993–94 constant prices) at 4.5%, falling to 3.4% in the next financial year.<ref name="GoAESA0405">{{cite web |author=Government of Assam |title=Economic Survey of Assam 2004–2005 in NEDFi, Assam Profile, NER Databank |year=2006 |url=http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4| access-date = 6 June 2007| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081231164030/http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4| archive-date = 31 December 2008| url-status=live }}</ref> During 2003–04 and 2004–05, the economy grew (at 1993–94 constant prices) at 5.5% and 5.3% respectively.<ref name="GoAESA0405" /> The advanced estimates placed the growth rate for 2005–06 at above 6%.<ref name="government2005" /> Assam's GDP in 2004 is estimated at $13&nbsp;billion in current prices. Sectoral analysis again exhibits a dismal picture. The average annual growth rate of agriculture, which was 2.6% per annum over the 1980s, has fallen to 1.6% in the 1990s.<ref name="AHDR2003II">UNDP 2004, pp. 24–25</ref> The manufacturing sector showed some improvement in the 1990s with a growth rate of 3.4% per annum than 2.4% in the 1980s.<ref name="AHDR2003II" /> For the past five decades, the tertiary sector has registered the highest growth rates of the other sectors, which even has slowed down in the 1990s than in the 1980s.<ref name="AHDR2003II" />
According to recent analysis, Assam's economy is showing signs of improvement. In 2001–02, the economy grew (at 1993–94 constant prices) at 4.5%, falling to 3.4% in the next financial year.<ref name="GoAESA0405">{{cite web
| author = Government of Assam
| title = Economic Survey of Assam 2004–2005 in NEDFi, Assam Profile, NER Databank
| year = 2006
| url = http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4
| access-date = 6 June 2007
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081231164030/http://databank.nedfi.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=4
| archive-date = 31 December 2008
| url-status=live
| df = dmy-all
}}</ref> During 2003–04 and 2004–05, the economy grew (at 1993–94 constant prices) at 5.5% and 5.3% respectively.<ref name="GoAESA0405" /> The advanced estimates placed the growth rate for 2005–06 at above 6%.<ref name="government2005" /> Assam's GDP in 2004 is estimated at $13&nbsp;billion in current prices. Sectoral analysis again exhibits a dismal picture. The average annual growth rate of agriculture, which was 2.6% per annum over the 1980s, has fallen to 1.6% in the 1990s.<ref name="AHDR2003II">UNDP 2004, pp. 24–25</ref> The manufacturing sector showed some improvement in the 1990s with a growth rate of 3.4% per annum than 2.4% in the 1980s.<ref name="AHDR2003II" /> For the past five decades, the tertiary sector has registered the highest growth rates of the other sectors, which even has slowed down in the 1990s than in the 1980s.<ref name="AHDR2003II" />


=== Employment === === Employment ===
Unemployment is one of the major problems in Assam. This problem can be attributed to overpopulation and a faulty education system. Every year, large numbers of students obtain higher academic degrees but because of non-availability of proportional vacancies, most of these students remain unemployed.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/indicators/Poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-Assams-growth-Assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |title=Poor infrastructure, stringent policies bottleneck for Assam's growth |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=9 July 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927130403/http://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/indicators/poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-assams-growth-assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |archive-date=27 September 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |title=Panel for study of unemployment problem in Assam |publisher=Zee News |date=26 October 2012 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925135649/http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> A number of employers hire over-qualified or efficient, but under-certified, candidates, or candidates with narrowly defined qualifications. The problem is exacerbated by the growth in the number of technical institutes in Assam which increases the unemployed community of the State. Many job-seekers are eligible for jobs in sectors like railways and ] but do not get these jobs because of the appointment of candidates from outside of Assam to these posts. The reluctance on the part of the departments concerned to advertise vacancies in vernacular language has also made matters worse for local unemployed youths particularly for the job-seekers of Grade C and D vacancies.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713/at098 |title=The Assam Tribune |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=17 October 2013 |access-date=25 August 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200248/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713%2Fat098 |archive-date=23 September 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114/city07 |title=The Assam Tribune |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=21 January 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200246/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114%2Fcity07 |archive-date=23 September 2015 }}</ref> Unemployment is one of the major problems in Assam. This problem can be attributed to overpopulation and a faulty education system. Every year, large numbers of students obtain higher academic degrees but because of non-availability of proportional vacancies, most of these students remain unemployed.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/Poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-Assams-growth-Assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |title=Poor infrastructure, stringent policies bottleneck for Assam's growth |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=9 July 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826135157/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/poor-infrastructure-stringent-policies-bottleneck-for-assams-growth-assocham/articleshow/48003338.cms |archive-date=26 August 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |title=Panel for study of unemployment problem in Assam |publisher=Zee News |date=26 October 2012 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925135649/http://zeenews.india.com/news/assam/panel-for-study-of-unemployment-problem-in-assam_807697.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> A number of employers hire over-qualified or efficient, but under-certified, candidates, or candidates with narrowly defined qualifications. The problem is exacerbated by the growth in the number of technical institutes in Assam which increases the unemployed community of the State. The reluctance on the part of the departments concerned to advertise vacancies in vernacular language has also made matters worse for local unemployed youths particularly for the job-seekers of Grade C and D vacancies.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713/at098 |title=The Assam Tribune |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=17 October 2013 |access-date=25 August 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200248/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=oct1713%2Fat098 |archive-date=23 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114/city07 |title=The Assam Tribune |publisher=The Assam Tribune |date=21 January 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923200246/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/mdetails.asp?id=jan2114%2Fcity07 |archive-date=23 September 2015}}</ref>


Reduction of the unemployed has been threatened by ] from Bangladesh. This has increased the workforce without a commensurate increase in jobs. Immigrants compete with local workers for jobs at lower wages, particularly in construction, domestics, Rickshaw-pullers, and vegetable sellers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-05/news/65244059_1_foreigners-tribunals-illegal-migrants-assam |title=Centre taking steps to check illegal immigration into Assam |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=5 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925123930/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-05/news/65244059_1_foreigners-tribunals-illegal-migrants-assam |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20151216080510/http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 December 2015 |title=Soon blueprint to deport illegal Bangladeshis in Assam |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=10 December 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref> The government has been identifying (via ]) and deporting illegal immigrants. Continued immigration is exceeding deportation.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html |title=Illegal immigration from Bangladesh a national problem |magazine=India Today |date=4 June 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925135012/http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html |title=Leave in 15 days, BJP MPs tell illegal immigrants in Assam |work=Firstpost |date=2 June 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925103455/http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Reduction of the unemployed has been threatened by ] from Bangladesh. This has increased the workforce without a commensurate increase in jobs. Immigrants compete with local workers for jobs at lower wages, particularly in construction, domestics, Rickshaw-pullers, and vegetable sellers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-05/news/65244059_1_foreigners-tribunals-illegal-migrants-assam |title=Centre taking steps to check illegal immigration into Assam |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=5 August 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925123930/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-08-05/news/65244059_1_foreigners-tribunals-illegal-migrants-assam |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20151216080510/http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/soon-blueprint-to-detect-deport-illegal-bangladeshis-in-assam/article1-1294954.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 December 2015 |title=Soon blueprint to deport illegal Bangladeshis in Assam |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=10 December 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref> The government has been identifying (via ]) and deporting illegal immigrants. Continued immigration is exceeding deportation.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html |title=Illegal immigration from Bangladesh a national problem |magazine=India Today |date=4 June 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925135012/http://m.indiatoday.in/story/illegal-immigration-from-bangladesh-a-national-problem-kiran-ririju/1/365190.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html |title=Leave in 15 days, BJP MPs tell illegal immigrants in Assam |work=Firstpost |date=2 June 2014 |access-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925103455/http://m.firstpost.com/politics/leave-in-15-days-bjp-mps-tell-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-1553405.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Agriculture === === Agriculture ===
] ]
In Assam among all the productive sectors, agriculture makes the highest contribution to its domestic sectors, accounting for more than a third of Assam's income and employs 69% of workforce.<ref>{{cite web|author=Government of Assam |title=Economic Survey of Assam 2001–2002 in Assam Human Development Report, 2003 |page=32 |url=http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |access-date=6 June 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220213032/http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |archive-date=20 February 2007 }}</ref> Assam's biggest contribution to the world is ]. It has its own variety, ''Camellia sinensis'' var. ''assamica''. The state produces rice, ], ], ], potato, sweet potato, banana, ], ], sugarcane and ].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} In Assam among all the productive sectors, agriculture makes the highest contribution to its domestic sectors, accounting for more than a third of Assam's income and employs 69% of workforce.<ref>{{cite web |author=Government of Assam |title=Economic Survey of Assam 2001–2002 in Assam Human Development Report, 2003 |page=32 |url=http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |access-date=6 June 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220213032/http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |archive-date=20 February 2007}}</ref> Assam's biggest contribution to the world is ]. It has its own variety, ''Camellia sinensis'' var. ''assamica''. The state produces rice, ], ], ], potato, sweet potato, banana, ], ], sugarcane and ].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


Assam's agriculture is yet to experience modernisation in a real sense. With implications for food security, per capita food grain production has declined in the past five decades.<ref name="AHDR2003III">UNDP 2004, p. 33</ref> Productivity has increased marginally, but is still low compared to highly productive regions. For instance, the yield of rice (a staple food of Assam) was just 1531&nbsp;kg per hectare against India's 1927&nbsp;kg per hectare in 2000–01<ref name="AHDR2003III" /> (which itself is much lower than ]'s 9283, US's 7279, South Korea's 6838, Japan's 6635 and China's 6131&nbsp;kg per hectare in 2001<ref>{{cite web Assam's agriculture is yet to experience modernisation in a real sense. With implications for food security, per capita food grain production has declined in the past five decades.<ref name="AHDR2003III">UNDP 2004, p. 33</ref> Productivity has increased marginally, but is still low compared to highly productive regions. For instance, the yield of rice (a staple food of Assam) was just 1531&nbsp;kg per hectare against India's 1927&nbsp;kg per hectare in 2000–01<ref name="AHDR2003III" /> (which itself is much lower than ]'s 9283, US's 7279, South Korea's 6838, Japan's 6635 and China's 6131&nbsp;kg per hectare in 2001<ref>{{cite web |last=FAO Statistics Division, 2007 |first=Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations |title=Faostat |url=http://faostat.fao.org/site/340/DesktopDefault.aspx?PageID=340| access-date =5 June 2006| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070211180852/http://faostat.fao.org/site/340/DesktopDefault.aspx?PageID=340| archive-date=11 February 2007}}</ref>). On the other hand, after having strong domestic demand, and with 1.5&nbsp;million hectares of inland water bodies, numerous rivers and 165 varieties of fishes,<ref>{{cite web |last=Assam Small Farmers' Agri-business Consortium |title=Fish Species of Assam |url=http://www.assamagribusiness.nic.in/2ndoct/fishspeciesofAssam.pdf |access-date = 5 June 2006|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060514212850/http://assamagribusiness.nic.in/2ndoct/fishspeciesofAssam.pdf |archive-date = 14 May 2006|url-status = dead }}</ref> fishing is still in its traditional form and production is not self-sufficient.<ref name="AHDR2003IV">UNDP 2004, p. 37</ref>
| last = FAO Statistics Division, 2007
| first = Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
| title = Faostat
| url = http://faostat.fao.org/site/340/DesktopDefault.aspx?PageID=340
| access-date =5 June 2006
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070211180852/http://faostat.fao.org/site/340/DesktopDefault.aspx?PageID=340| archive-date=11 February 2007}}</ref>). On the other hand, after having strong domestic demand, and with 1.5&nbsp;million hectares of inland water bodies, numerous rivers and 165 varieties of fishes,<ref>{{cite web
|last = Assam Small Farmers' Agri-business Consortium
|title = Fish Species of Assam
|url = http://www.assamagribusiness.nic.in/2ndoct/fishspeciesofAssam.pdf
|access-date = 5 June 2006
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060514212850/http://assamagribusiness.nic.in/2ndoct/fishspeciesofAssam.pdf
|archive-date = 14 May 2006
|url-status = dead
|df = dmy-all
}}</ref> fishing is still in its traditional form and production is not self-sufficient.<ref name="AHDR2003IV">UNDP 2004, p. 37</ref>


Floods in Assam greatly affect the farmers and the families dependent on agriculture because of large-scale damage of agricultural fields and crops by flood water.<ref name="Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13" /><ref name="Flood situation in Assam worsens" /> Every year, flooding from the Brahmaputra and other rivers deluges places in Assam. The water levels of the rivers rise because of rainfall resulting in the rivers overflowing their banks and engulfing nearby areas. Apart from houses and livestock being washed away by flood water, bridges, railway tracks and roads are also damaged by the calamity, which causes communication breakdown in many places. Fatalities are also caused by the natural disaster in many places of the state.<ref name="Assam Flood Toll Rises to 132">{{cite web|url=http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178|title=Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13|date=23 August 2015|publisher=NDTV|access-date=25 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824155525/http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178|archive-date=24 August 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Flood situation in Assam worsens2">{{cite news|url=http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/flood-situation-in-assam-worsens-7-dead-over-650-000-displaced/article1-1383226.aspx|title=Flood situation in Assam worsens|date=23 August 2015|newspaper=Hindustan Times|access-date=25 August 2015}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>{{See also|2016 Assam floods}} Floods in Assam greatly affect the farmers and the families dependent on agriculture because of large-scale damage of agricultural fields and crops by flood water.<ref name="Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13" /><ref name="Flood situation in Assam worsens" /> Every year, flooding from the Brahmaputra and other rivers deluges places in Assam. The water levels of the rivers rise because of rainfall resulting in the rivers overflowing their banks and engulfing nearby areas. Apart from houses and livestock being washed away by flood water, bridges, railway tracks and roads are also damaged by the calamity, which causes communication breakdown in many places. Fatalities are also caused by the natural disaster in many places of the state.<ref name="Assam Flood Toll Rises to 132">{{cite web |url=http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178 |title=Assam Flood Toll Rises to 13 |date=23 August 2015 |publisher=NDTV|access-date=25 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824155525/http://m.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-flood-toll-rises-to-13-chief-minister-gogoi-undertakes-aerial-visit-1210178|archive-date=24 August 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Flood situation in Assam worsens2">{{cite news |url=http://m.hindustantimes.com/india-news/flood-situation-in-assam-worsens-7-dead-over-650-000-displaced/article1-1383226.aspx |title=Flood situation in Assam worsens |date=23 August 2015 |newspaper=Hindustan Times|access-date=25 August 2015}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>{{See also|2016 Assam floods}}

=== Infrastructure ===
On 30 August 2023, Nilachal Flyover was inaugurated. The flyover is Assam's longest flyover, spanning 2.63 kilometres and connecting Maligaon Chariali to Kamakhya Gate in Guwahati.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Assam To Build 1,000 New Bridges By 2026: Himanta Biswa Sarma |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-to-build-1-000-new-bridges-by-2026-himanta-biswa-sarma-4343162 |work=NDTV |agency=PTI |date=30 August 2023 |access-date=4 September 2023 |archive-date=4 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230904182127/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/assam-to-build-1-000-new-bridges-by-2026-himanta-biswa-sarma-4343162 |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Industry === === Industry ===
Handlooms and handicrafts are traditional industries that continue to survive, especially among rural women, in the state.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 August 2022 |title=National Handloom Day 2022: How self-help groups sustain Indian handicrafts and handlooms |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/art-and-culture/national-handloom-day-2022-how-self-help-groups-sustain-indian-handicrafts-handlooms-har-ghar-tiranga-8074511/ |access-date=27 December 2022 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=27 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221227210549/https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/art-and-culture/national-handloom-day-2022-how-self-help-groups-sustain-indian-handicrafts-handlooms-har-ghar-tiranga-8074511/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Handlooming and handicraft continue.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


Assam's proximity to some neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, benefits its trade. The major ]s through which border trade flows to Bangladesh from Assam are : Sutarkandi (Karimganj), Dhubri, Mankachar (Dhubri) and Golokanj. To facilitate border trade with Bangladesh, Border Trade Centres have been developed at Sutarkandi and ]. It has been proposed in the 11th five-year plan{{clarify|WHOSE five-year plan?|date=January 2015}} to set up two more Border Trade Center, one at ] connecting China and other at ] connecting Bhutan. There are several Land Custom Stations (LCS) in the state bordering Bangladesh and Bhutan to facilitate border trade.<ref>{{cite web|title=Indian state: Assam|url=http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam.htm|publisher=Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124172800/http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam.htm|archive-date=24 January 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> Assam's proximity to some neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, benefits its trade. The major ]s through which border trade flows to Bangladesh from Assam are : Sutarkandi (Karimganj), Dhubri, Mankachar (Dhubri) and Golokanj. To facilitate border trade with Bangladesh, Border Trade Centres have been developed at Sutarkandi and ]. It has been proposed in the 11th five-year plan{{clarify|WHOSE five-year plan?|date=January 2015}} to set up two more Border Trade Center, one at ] connecting China and other at ] connecting Bhutan. There are several Land Custom Stations (LCS) in the state bordering Bangladesh and Bhutan to facilitate border trade.<ref>{{cite web |title=Indian state: Assam |url=http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam.htm |publisher=Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124172800/http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam.htm|archive-date=24 January 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>


The government of India has identified some thrust areas for industrial development of Assam:<ref>{{cite web|title=Indian state: Assam, Thrust Areas|url=http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam2.htm#t1|publisher=Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130407180123/http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam2.htm#t1|archive-date=7 April 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> The government of India has identified some thrust areas for industrial development of Assam:<ref>{{cite web |title=Indian state: Assam, Thrust Areas |url=http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam2.htm#t1 |publisher=Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130407180123/http://indiainbusiness.nic.in/know-india/states/assam2.htm#t1|archive-date=7 April 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>
{{div col|content= {{div col|content=
* Petroleum and natural gas-based industries * Petroleum and natural gas-based industries
Line 875: Line 817:
}} }}


Although, the region in the eastern periphery of India is landlocked and is linked to the mainland by the narrow ] (or the Chicken's Neck) improved transport infrastructure in all the three modes – rail, road and air – and developing urban infrastructure in the cities and towns of Assam are giving a boost to the entire industrial scene. The ] at Guwahati, with international flights to ] and ] offered by ] of ], was the 12th busiest airport of India in 2012.<ref>]</ref> The cities of Guwahati<ref>{{cite web|title=GMC |url=http://gmcportal.in:8080/GMCPortal/ |publisher=Guwahati Municipal Corporation |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104033938/http://gmcportal.in:8080/GMCPortal/ |archive-date=4 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Guwahati|url=http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/Guwahati|publisher=IndiaUnveiled|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104044832/http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/Guwahati|archive-date=4 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> in the west and ]<ref>{{cite web|title=Dibrugarh Municipality |url=http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org/about%20us.html |publisher=Dibrugarh Municipal Board |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140901185847/http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org/About%20Us.html |archive-date=1 September 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Dibrugarh|url=http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/dibrugarh|publisher=IndiaUnveiled|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104045146/http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/dibrugarh|archive-date=4 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> in the east with good rail,<ref>{{cite web|title=New Delhi Dibrugarh Trains|url=http://indiarailinfo.com/search/dibrugarh-town-dbrt-to-new-delhi-ndls/680/664|publisher=Indiarailinfo|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522230505/http://indiarailinfo.com/search/dibrugarh-town-dbrt-to-new-delhi-ndls/680/664|archive-date=22 May 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Trains from Dibrugarh|url=http://indiarailinfo.com/departures/dibrugarh-dbrg/7288|publisher=Indiarailinfo|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005002950/http://indiarailinfo.com/departures/dibrugarh-dbrg/7288|archive-date=5 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> road and air connectivity are the two important nerve centres of Assam, to be selected by Asian Development Bank for providing $200&nbsp;million for improvement of urban infrastructure.<ref name="Asian Development Bank">{{cite web|title=ADB $200 Million Loan to Upgrade Services in Key Cities of India's Assam State|url=http://www.adb.org/news/adb-200-million-loan-upgrade-services-key-cities-indias-assam-state|publisher=Asian Development Bank|access-date=2 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006122800/http://www.adb.org/news/adb-200-million-loan-upgrade-services-key-cities-indias-assam-state|archive-date=6 October 2014|url-status=live|date=3 October 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=$81-million ADB loan for State urban infrastructure|url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=mar1012/at092|access-date=1 August 2013|newspaper=The Assam Tribune|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103180502/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=mar1012%2Fat092|archive-date=3 November 2013}}</ref> Although, the region in the eastern periphery of India is landlocked and is linked to the mainland by the narrow ] (or the Chicken's Neck) improved transport infrastructure in all the three modes – rail, road and air – and developing urban infrastructure in the cities and towns of Assam are giving a boost to the entire industrial scene. The ] at Guwahati, with international flights to ] and ] offered by ] of ], was the 12th busiest airport of India in 2012.<ref>]</ref> The cities of Guwahati<ref>{{cite web |title=GMC |url=http://gmcportal.in:8080/GMCPortal/ |publisher=Guwahati Municipal Corporation |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104033938/http://gmcportal.in:8080/GMCPortal/ |archive-date=4 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Guwahati |url=http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/Guwahati |publisher=IndiaUnveiled|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104044832/http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/Guwahati|archive-date=4 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> in the west and ]<ref>{{cite web |title=Dibrugarh Municipality |url=http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org/about%20us.html |publisher=Dibrugarh Municipal Board |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140901185847/http://dibrugarhmunicipality.org/About%20Us.html |archive-date=1 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Dibrugarh |url=http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/dibrugarh |publisher=IndiaUnveiled|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104045146/http://www.indiaunveiled.in/location/dibrugarh|archive-date=4 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> in the east with good rail,<ref>{{cite web |title=New Delhi Dibrugarh Trains |url=http://indiarailinfo.com/search/dibrugarh-town-dbrt-to-new-delhi-ndls/680/664 |publisher=Indiarailinfo|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522230505/http://indiarailinfo.com/search/dibrugarh-town-dbrt-to-new-delhi-ndls/680/664|archive-date=22 May 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Trains from Dibrugarh |url=http://indiarailinfo.com/departures/dibrugarh-dbrg/7288 |publisher=Indiarailinfo|access-date=1 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005002950/http://indiarailinfo.com/departures/dibrugarh-dbrg/7288|archive-date=5 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> road and air connectivity are the two important nerve centres of Assam, to be selected by Asian Development Bank for providing $200&nbsp;million for improvement of urban infrastructure.<ref name="Asian Development Bank">{{cite web |title=ADB $200 Million Loan to Upgrade Services in Key Cities of India's Assam State |url=http://www.adb.org/news/adb-200-million-loan-upgrade-services-key-cities-indias-assam-state |publisher=Asian Development Bank|access-date=2 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006122800/http://www.adb.org/news/adb-200-million-loan-upgrade-services-key-cities-indias-assam-state|archive-date=6 October 2014|url-status=live |date=3 October 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=$81-million ADB loan for State urban infrastructure |url=http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=mar1012/at092|access-date=1 August 2013 |newspaper=The Assam Tribune|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103180502/http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=mar1012%2Fat092|archive-date=3 November 2013}}</ref>


Assam is a producer of ] and it accounts for about 15% of India's crude output,<ref>{{cite web|author=Government of Assam |url=http://assamgovt.nic.in/business/resources.asp |title=Available Resources in Assam |publisher=Government of Assam |date=18 February 2007 |access-date=18 July 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716031122/http://assamgovt.nic.in/business/resources.asp |archive-date=16 July 2011 }}</ref> exploited by the Assam Oil Company Ltd.,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.assamco.com/|publisher=assamco.com|title=Assamco|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110903083354/http://www.assamco.com/|archive-date=3 September 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> and natural gas in India and is the second place in the world (after ] in the United States) where petroleum was discovered. Asia's first successful mechanically drilled oil well was drilled in ] way back in 1867. Most of the oilfields are located in the Eastern Assam region. Assam has four oil refineries in ] (Asia's first and world's second refinery), Guwahati, ] and ] and with a total capacity of 7&nbsp;million metric tonnes (7.7&nbsp;million ]s) per annum. Asia's first refinery was set up at Digboi and discoverer of Digboi oilfield was the Assam Railways & Trading Company Limited (AR&T Co. Ltd.), a registered company of London in 1881.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://investinassam.com/overview.html |title=Government of Assam &#124; Department of Industries and Commerce |publisher=Investinassam.com|access-date=22 September 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120316145633/http://investinassam.com/overview.html |archive-date=16 March 2012 }}</ref> One of the biggest public sector oil company of the country ] has its plant and headquarters at ]. Assam is a producer of ] and it accounts for about 15% of India's crude output,<ref>{{cite web |author=Government of Assam |url=http://assamgovt.nic.in/business/resources.asp |title=Available Resources in Assam |publisher=Government of Assam |date=18 February 2007 |access-date=18 July 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716031122/http://assamgovt.nic.in/business/resources.asp |archive-date=16 July 2011}}</ref> exploited by the Assam Oil Company Ltd.,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.assamco.com/ |publisher=assamco.com |title=Assamco|access-date=22 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110903083354/http://www.assamco.com/|archive-date=3 September 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> and natural gas in India and is the second place in the world (after ] in the United States) where petroleum was discovered. Asia's first successful mechanically drilled oil well was drilled in ] way back in 1867. Most of the oilfields are located in the Eastern Assam region. Assam has four oil refineries in ] (Asia's first and world's second refinery), Guwahati, ] and ] and with a total capacity of 7&nbsp;million metric tonnes (7.7&nbsp;million ]s) per annum. Asia's first refinery was set up at Digboi and discoverer of Digboi oilfield was the Assam Railways & Trading Company Limited (AR&T Co. Ltd.), a registered company of London in 1881.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://investinassam.com/overview.html |title=Government of Assam &#124; Department of Industries and Commerce |publisher=Investinassam.com|access-date=22 September 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120316145633/http://investinassam.com/overview.html |archive-date=16 March 2012}}</ref> One of the biggest public sector oil company of the country ] has its plant and headquarters at ].


There are several other industries, including a chemical ] plant at ], ] industries in Namrup and Bongaigaon, paper mills at ], ] and ], sugar mills in Barua Bamun Gaon, Chargola, Kampur, cement plants in Bokajan and ], and a cosmetics plant of ] (HUL) at ]. Moreover, there are other industries such as jute mill, textile and yarn mills, ], and silk mills. Many of these industries are facing losses and closure due to lack of infrastructure and improper management practices.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.iloveindia.com/states/assam/economy.html | title = Assam Economy – Economy of Assam, Business & Economy of Assam India | publisher = iloveindia.com|access-date=18 July 2010 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100710050533/http://www.iloveindia.com/states/assam/economy.html| archive-date= 10 July 2010 | url-status=live}}</ref> There are several other industries, including a chemical ] plant at ], ] industries in Namrup and Bongaigaon, paper mills at ], ] and ], sugar mills in Barua Bamun Gaon, Chargola, Kampur, cement plants in Bokajan and ], and a cosmetics plant of ] (HUL) at ]. Moreover, there are other industries such as jute mill, textile and yarn mills, ], and silk mills. Many of these industries are facing losses and closure due to lack of infrastructure and improper management practices.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.iloveindia.com/states/assam/economy.html |title=Assam Economy – Economy of Assam, Business & Economy of Assam India |publisher=iloveindia.com|access-date=18 July 2010 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100710050533/http://www.iloveindia.com/states/assam/economy.html| archive-date= 10 July 2010 | url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Tourism === === Tourism ===
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{{Main|Culture of Assam }} {{Main|Culture of Assam }}
{{See also|Assamese cinema}} {{See also|Assamese cinema}}

{{cleanup|reason=too long|date=August 2019}}
] in their traditional attire.]] ] in the traditional attire of the ] on the occasion of ]]]
] is traditionally a ] one developed due to assimilation of ethno-cultural groups of Austric, Dravidian, Tibeto-Burman and Tai origin in the past. Therefore, both local elements or the local elements in Sanskritised forms are distinctly found.<ref name="BKakatiAIFD">{{Citation ] is described as a ] and ] in nature developed due to the assimilation of numerous ethnic groups and cultural practices of ], ], ] and ] inhabitants. Therefore, both local elements or the local elements in Sanskritised forms are distinctly found.<ref name="BKakatiAIFD">{{Citation |first=Banikanta |last=Kakati |title=Assamese, Its Formation and Development, 2nd edition |place=Guwahati, India |publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall |year=1962}}</ref> The major milestones in the evolution of Assamese culture are:
| first = Banikanta | last = Kakati
| title = Assamese, Its Formation and Development, 2nd edition
| place = Guwahati, India
| publisher = Lawyer's Book Stall
| year = 1962 }}</ref> The major milestones in the evolution of Assamese culture are:
]}}]] ]}}]]


* Assimilation in the Kamarupa Kingdom for almost 700 years (under the ] for 300 years, Salastambhas and ] for each 200 years).<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" /> * Assimilation in the ] for almost 800 years (] for 300 years, ] for 250 years and the ] for 200 years.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" />
* Establishment of the ] in the 12th century in eastern Assam and assimilation for next 400 years.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" /> * Establishment of the ] in the 12th century in eastern Assam and assimilation for next 400 years.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" />
* Establishment of the ] in the 13th century CE and assimilation for next 600 years.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" /> * Establishment of the ] in the 13th century CE and assimilation for next 600 years.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" />
* Assimilation in the ] (15th–16th century CE) of western Assam and Kachari Kingdom (12th–18th century CE) of central and southern Assam.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" /> * Assimilation in the ] (15th–16th century CE) of western Assam and Kachari kingdom (12th–18th century CE) of central and southern Assam.<ref name="HKBarpujariCHOA" />
* ] Movement led by ] (''Xongkordeu'') and its contribution and cultural changes. The Vaishanava Movement, the 15th century religio-cultural movement under the leadership of ] (Sonkordeu) and his disciples have provided another dimension to Assamese culture. A renewed Hinduisation in local forms took place, which was initially greatly supported by the Koch and later by the Ahom Kingdoms. The resultant social institutions such as '']'' and '']'' (the Vaishnav Monasteries) have become part of the Assamese way of life. The movement contributed greatly towards language, literature, and performing and fine arts.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} * ] Movement led by ] (''Xongkordeu'') made an enormous impact on the socio-cultural and religious sphere of Assam. This 15th century religio-cultural movement under the leadership of ] (Xonkordeu) and his disciples have provided another dimension to Assamese culture. A renewed Hinduisation in local forms took place, which was initially greatly supported by the Koch and later by the Ahom kingdoms. The resultant social institutions such as '']'' and '']'' (the Vaishnav Monasteries) have become an integral part of the Assamese way of life. The movement contributed greatly towards language, literature, and performing and fine arts.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}. It was also an egalitarian reform movement as it broke away with the old caste barriers of Brahmanical Hinduism and converted into its fold people of all castes, ethnicity and religions (including ]).
] ]'' in ], the Neo-Vaishnavite cultural heritage of Assam}}]]
The modern culture has been influenced by events in the British and the post-British era. The language was standardised by American ] ] such as ], ] and local pundits such as ] with the form available in the ] (''Sivasagar'') District (the ex-nerve centre of the Ahom Kingdom).{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} The modern culture has been influenced by events in the British and the post-British era. ] language was standardised by American ] ] such as ], ] and local pundits such as ] with the dialect spoken in undivided ] district (the centre of the Ahom kingdom) forming the standardised dialect. {{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


Increasing efforts of standardisation in the 20th century alienated the localised forms present in different areas and with the less-assimilated ] (many source-cultures). However, Assamese culture in its hybrid form and nature is one of the richest, still developing and in true sense is a ']' with sub-systems. Many source-cultures of the Assamese cultural-system are still surviving either as sub-systems or as sister entities, e.g. the; ] or ] or ]. It is important to keep the broader system closer to its roots and at the same time focus on development of the sub-systems. Increasing efforts of standardisation in the 20th century alienated the localised forms present in different areas and with the less-assimilated ] (many source-cultures). However, Assamese culture in its hybrid form and nature is one of the richest, still developing and in true sense is a ']' with sub-systems. Many source-cultures of the Assamese cultural-system are still surviving either as sub-systems or as sister entities, e.g. the; ] or ] or ]. It is important to keep the broader system closer to its roots and at the same time focus on development of the sub-systems.
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=== Symbols === === Symbols ===
{{See also|List of Assam state symbols|Jaapi}} {{See also|List of Assam state symbols|Jaapi}}
] dress with a ] wrapped with Gamosa}}]] ] woman using a handloom to weave a traditional ] dress.}}]]
]'' laid over a Gamosa}}]] ]'' laid over a Gamosa}}]]
Symbolism is an ancient cultural practice in Assam and is still a very important part of the Assamese way of life. Various elements are used to represent beliefs, feelings, pride, identity, etc. ''Tamulpan'', '']'' and ''Gamosa'' are three important symbolic elements in Assamese culture. ''Tamulpan'' (the areca nut and betel leaves) or ''guapan'' (gua from ''kwa'') are considered along with the Gamosa (a typical woven cotton or silk cloth with embroidery) as the offers of devotion, respect and friendship. The Tamulpan-tradition is an ancient one and is being followed since time-immemorial with roots in the aboriginal Austric culture. '']'' is a traditionally manufactured bell-metal article of great respect and is used as a container-medium while performing respectful offers. Moreover, symbolically many ethno-cultural groups use specific clothes to portray respect and pride. Symbolism is an ancient cultural practice in Assam and is still a very important part of the Assamese way of life. Various elements are used to represent beliefs, feelings, pride, identity, etc.


'''Tamulpan''' (areca nut and betel leaves),
There were many other symbolic elements and designs, but are now only found in literature, art, sculpture, architecture, etc. or in use today for only religious purposes. The typical designs of ''Assamese-lion'', ''dragon'', and ''flying-lion'' were used for symbolising various purposes and occasions. The archaeological sites such as the Madan Kamdev (c. 9th–10th centuries CE) exhibits mass-scale use of lions, dragon-lions and many other figures of demons to show case power and prosperity. The Vaishnava monasteries and many other architectural sites of the late medieval period display the use of lions and dragons for symbolic effects.
''']''' and ''']''' are three important symbolic elements in Assamese culture. ''Tamulpan'' or ''guapan'' (gua from ''kwa'') are considered along with the Gamosa (a typical woven cotton or silk cloth with embroidery) as the offers of devotion, respect and friendship. The Tamulpan-tradition is an ancient one and is being followed since time-immemorial with roots in the aboriginal Austric culture. '']'' is a traditionally manufactured bell-metal article of great respect and is used as a container-medium while performing respectful offers. Moreover, symbolically many ethno-cultural groups use specific clothes to portray respect and pride.

]]]
There were many other symbolic elements and designs, but are now only found in literature, art, sculpture, architecture, etc. or in use today for only religious purposes. The typical designs of ''Assamese-lion'', ''dragon'' (ngi-ngao-kham), and ''flying-lion'' (Naam-singho) are used for symbolising various purposes and occasions. The archaeological sites such as the ] (c. 9th–10th centuries CE) exhibits mass-scale use of lions, dragon-lions and many other figures of demons to show case power and prosperity.] The Vaishnavite monasteries (]) and many other architectural sites of the late medieval period display the use of lions and dragons for symbolic effects.


=== Festivals and traditions === === Festivals and traditions ===
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{{See also|Domahi|Bohag Bihu|Magh Bihu|Bwisagu}} {{See also|Domahi|Bohag Bihu|Magh Bihu|Bwisagu}}
] dancer blowing a '']'' (horn)}}]] ] dancer blowing a '']'' (horn)}}]]
]]] ]s from ]]]
]]]
] dancing during ] (Spring Festival)]]
There are diversified important traditional festivals in Assam. Bihu is the most important and common and celebrated all over Assam. It is the Assamese new year celebrated in April of the Gregorian calendar. ] is observed with great merriment by ] of various denominations, including ] and ], throughout Assam. ], a festival introduced and popularised by ], is widely celebrated across the state. Muslims celebrate two Eids (] and ]) with much eagerness all over Assam. There are diversified important traditional festivals in Assam. Bihu is the most important festival of Assam and is celebrated all over the state.The Assamese new year (Ek Bohag) is celebrated in April of the Gregorian calendar.


]
] is a series of three prominent festivals. Primarily a non-religious festival celebrated to mark the seasons and the significant points of a cultivator's life over a yearly cycle. Three Bihus, ''rongali'' or ''bohag'', celebrated with the coming of spring and the beginning of the sowing season; ''kongali'' or ''kati'', the barren bihu when the fields are lush but the barns are empty; and the '']'' or ''magh'', the thanksgiving when the crops have been harvested and the barns are full. Bihu songs and ] are associated to ''rongali'' bihu. The day before the each bihu is known as 'uruka'. The first day of 'rongali bihu' is called 'Goru bihu' (the bihu of the cows), when the cows are taken to the nearby rivers or ponds to be bathed with special care. In recent times the form and nature of celebration has changed with the growth of urban centres.


''']''' is described as the soul and life of Assam. It is a series of three prominent festivals each associated with a certain stage during the cultivation of paddy. Primarily a secular festival celebrated to mark the seasons and the significant points of a cultivator's life over yearly cycle. Three Bihus, ''rongali'' (in the month of ''bohag''), celebrated with the coming of spring and the beginning of the sowing season; ''kongali'' or ''kati'', the barren bihu when the fields are lush but the barns are empty and '']'' (in the month of ''magh''), the thanksgiving when the crops have been harvested and the granaries are full. Bihu songs and ] are associated with ''rongali'' and ''bhogali'' bihu. The day before the each bihu is known as the day of '''Uruka'''. The first day of 'Rongali bihu' is called 'Goru bihu' (the bihu of the cows), when the cows are taken to the nearby rivers or ponds to be bathed with special care. In recent times the form and nature of celebration has changed with the growth of urban centres.
] is one of the popular seasonal festivals of the ]. Bwisagu start of the new year or age. Baisagu is a Boro word which originated from the word "Baisa" which means year or age, and "Agu" that means starting or start.


]
Beshoma is a festival of Deshi people.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nenow.in/north-east-news/bihu-myriad-colours.html|title=Bihu – Its Myriad Colours|website=NORTHEAST NOW|date=20 April 2018|language=en-US|access-date=8 September 2019}}</ref> It is a celebration of sowing crop. The Beshoma starts on the last day of Chaitra and goes on until the sixth of Baisakh. With varying locations it is also called ''Bishma'' or ''Chait-Boishne.''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thethumbprintmag.com/beshoma-the-rongali-bihu-of-deshi-muslims/|title=Beshoma: The 'Rongali Bihu' of Deshi Muslims {{!}} The Thumb Print - A magazine from the East|language=en-US|access-date=8 September 2019}}</ref>
''']''' is one of the most popular seasonal festivals of the ]. '''Baisagu''' is a Boro word which originated from the word "Baisa" which means year or age, and "Agu" meaning starting or beginning. Bwisagu marks the beginning of the new year. It is celebrated at the beginning of the first month of the Boro year, around mid-April in the Gregorian Calendar. It has remarkable similarities to the festival of Rongali Bihu, also celebrated at the same time in Assam. The worship of Bathow is done on the second day of the festival.


] dancing during ] (Spring Festival) to the tunes of ]]]
] or simply Bushu is a major harvest festival of the ]. This festival is celebrated during the end of January. Officially 27 January has been declared as the day of Bushu Dima festival. The Dimasa people celebrate their festival by playing musical instruments- khram (a type of drum), muri (a kind of huge long flute). The people dances to the different tunes called "murithai" and each dance has got its name, the prominent being the "Baidima" There are three types of Bushu celebrated among the Dimasas Jidap, Surem and Hangsou.


''']''' or Ali-Ai-Ligang is a spring festivital associated with agriculture celebrated by the indigenous ] of Assam and other Northeast Indian states. It marks the beginning of the Ahu paddy cultivation in the farms. The term "Ali" denotes legumes, "Aye" means seed and "Ligang" is 'to sow'. The festival is celebrated on a Wednesday of the month of Fagun of the Assamese calendar and in the month of February in English calendar. The ''gumrag'' dance is associated with this festival.
Chavang Kut is a post harvesting festival of the ]. The festival is celebrated on the first day of November every year. Hence, this particular day has been officially declared as a Restricted Holiday by the Assam government. In the past, the celebration was primarily important in the religio-cultural sense. The rhythmic movements of the dances in the festival were inspired by animals, agricultural techniques and showed their relationship with ecology. Today, the celebration witnesses the shifting of stages and is revamped to suit new contexts and interpretations. The traditional dances which form the core of the festival is now performed in out-of-village settings and are staged in a secular public sphere. In Assam, the Kukis mainly reside in the two autonomous districts of Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong.

] performing Baidima, the traditional dance of the Dimasa people.]]

''']''' or simply Bushu is a major harvest festival of the ]. This festival is celebrated during the end of January. Officially 27 January has been declared as the day of Bushu Dima festival. The Dimasa people celebrate by playing musical instruments- khram (a type of drum), muri (a kind of huge long flute). The people dance to the different tunes of "murithai" and each dance has its own unique name, the most prominent being the "Baidima" There are three types of Bushu celebrated by the Dimasas- Jidap, Surem and Hangsou.

''']''' is the day of the ] for the ] community. It bears striking similarity in the concept of ancestor worship that the Tai-Ahoms share with other peoples originating from the ] stock. The word ‘Me’ means offerings, ‘Dam’ means ancestors and ‘Phi’ means gods. According to the Buranjis, Lengdon (God of thunder), the king of Mong Phi (]), sent two of his grandsons Khunlung and Khunlai to Mong Ri Mong Ram (present day ], China) and at that moment Ye-Cheng-Pha, the God of knowledge, advised them to perform Umpha, Phuralong, Mae Dam Mae Phi and Rik-khwan rituals in different months of the year on different occasions to pay respect to the ] (Ancestral Spirit) and Khwan elements. Since that day till now Mae Dam Mae Phi has been observed by the Tai-Ahoms. It is celebrated on 31 January every year according to the Gregorian calendar.

'''Rongker''' also called '''Dehal''' is an annual winter festival of merriment celebrated by the ] of Assam. It is observed in order to appease the local deities associated with the welfare of the village and the harvest of crops and also to get rid of all evil spirits. Although the festival does have a specific time it is usually observed at the beginning of the Karbi New year (Thang thang) which falls on February of the Gregorian calendar.

]]]

'''Doul Mohutsav''', also called '''Fakuwa''' or Doul Utsav is a festival of colours and happiness popular in ] and especially in ]. It is synonymous with the festival of ] celebrated in Northern India. Holigeets of Barpeta are sung which is incredibly popular and enthralls the heart of every Assamese. These holigeets are the exquisite compositions in praise of ]. People from different parts of the state visit Barpeta Satra to experience this colourful and joyful festival.

'''Chavang Kut''' is a post harvesting festival of the ]. The festival is celebrated on the first day of November every year. Hence, this particular day has been officially declared as a Restricted Holiday by the Assam government. In the past, the celebration was primarily important in the religio-cultural sense. The rhythmic movements of the dances in the festival were inspired by animals, agricultural techniques and showed their relationship with ecology. Today, the celebration witnesses the shifting of stages and is revamped to suit new contexts and interpretations. The traditional dances which form the core of the festival is now performed in out-of-village settings and are staged in a secular public sphere. In Assam, the Kukis mainly reside in the two autonomous districts of Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong.

'''Beshoma''' is a festival of ] (one of the indigenous ] groups of Assam).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://nenow.in/north-east-news/bihu-myriad-colours.html |title=Bihu – Its Myriad Colours |website=NORTHEAST NOW |date=20 April 2018 |language=en-US |access-date=8 September 2019 |archive-date=21 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190921143102/https://nenow.in/north-east-news/bihu-myriad-colours.html |url-status=live }}</ref> It is a celebration of sowing crop. The Beshoma starts on the last day of Chaitra and goes on until the sixth of Baisakh. With varying locations it is also called ''Bishma'' or ''Chait-Boishne.''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thethumbprintmag.com/beshoma-the-rongali-bihu-of-deshi-muslims/|title=Beshoma: The 'Rongali Bihu' of Deshi Muslims {{!}} The Thumb Print - A magazine from the East|language=en-US|access-date=8 September 2019|archive-date=8 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190908113448/http://www.thethumbprintmag.com/beshoma-the-rongali-bihu-of-deshi-muslims/|url-status=live}}</ref>


Moreover, there are other important traditional festivals being celebrated every year on different occasions at different places. Many of these are celebrated by different ethno-cultural groups (sub and sister cultures). Some of these are: Moreover, there are other important traditional festivals being celebrated every year on different occasions at different places. Many of these are celebrated by different ethno-cultural groups (sub and sister cultures). Some of these are:
{{div col|content= {{div col|content=

* ]
* ] (by the ])
* ]
* ] * ] (by the Bodos)
* ]
* Kherai
* Garja * Garja
* Bisu (]) * Bisu (])
* Awnkham Gwrlwi Janai * Awnkham Gwrlwi Janai
* Chojun/Swarak * Chojun/Swarak
* Deusi Bhailo ( Traditional Nepalese songs that are sung during the festival of light " Dipavali " and also called "Tihar" ) * Deusi Bhailo ( Traditional Nepalese songs that are sung during the festival of light "Dipavali" and also called "Tihar" )
* Sokk-erroi * Sokk-erroi
* Hacha-kekan * Hacha-kekan
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* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
}} }}
].]]
] is observed with great merriment by ] of various denominations, including ], ] and ], throughout Assam.
] is widely celebrated across the state. Muslims celebrate two Eids (] and ]) with much eagerness all over Assam.


Other few yearly celebrations are Doul Utsav of Barpeta, ], Guwahati, ], Kaziranga and ], Lekhapani, Karbi Youth Festival of Diphu and International Jatinga Festival, ] can not be forgotten. Few yearly ''Mela's'' like ], began in the 15th century by the Ahom Kings, ], Guwahati etc. Other few yearly celebrations are ], Guwahati, ], Kaziranga and ], Lekhapani, Karbi Youth Festival of Diphu and International Jatinga Festival, ] can not be forgotten. Few yearly ''Mela's'' like ], started in the 15th century by the Ahom Kings, ], Guwahati etc.


Asom Divas or ] Divas (2 December) is celebrated to commemorate the advent of the first king of the ] in Assam after his journey over the Patkai Hills.
Lachit Divas' is celebrated to promote the ideals of Lachit Borphukan – the legendary general of Assam's history. Sarbananda Sonowal, the chief minister of Assam took part in the Lachit Divas celebration at the statue of Lachit Borphukan at Brahmaputra riverfront on 24 November 2017.

] Divas (24 November) is celebrated on the birth anniversary of the great Ahom general ]. ], the chief minister of Assam took part in the Lachit Divas celebration at the statue of Lachit Borphukan at Brahmaputra riverfront on 24 November 2017.
He said, the first countrywide celebration of 'Lachit Divas' would take place in New Delhi followed by state capitals such as Hyderabad, Bangalore and Kolkata in a phased manner. He said, the first countrywide celebration of 'Lachit Divas' would take place in New Delhi followed by state capitals such as Hyderabad, Bangalore and Kolkata in a phased manner.


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{{See also|Music of Assam|Folk dances of Assam|Mobile theatre in Assam}} {{See also|Music of Assam|Folk dances of Assam|Mobile theatre in Assam}}
<gallery mode="packed" heights="134"> <gallery mode="packed" heights="134">
File:Sattriya by Dancer Meenakshi Medhi.JPG|] File:Krishnakahi Kashyap performing Sattriya Dance.jpg|] (An ])
File:Bodo dance.jpg|Bodo dance Bagurumba File:Bodo dance.jpg|Bodo dance ]
File:Tea Tribe Dance of Assam.jpg|Jhumair dance in Tea garden File:Tea Tribe Dance of Assam.jpg|Jhumair dance in Tea garden
File:Lukobadya nagara.jpg|Nagara File:Lukobadya nagara.jpg|Nagara drums
File:Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Assam, India.jpg|] File:Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Assam, India.jpg|] (Music maestro of Assam)
File:Bihu dance of Assam.jpg|Assamese youth performing Bihu Dance File:Bihu dance of Assam.jpg|Assamese youth performing Bihu Dance
File:Statue of Kalaguru, Rupkonwar and Natasurjya at Guwahati (Side view).JPG|Statue of ], ] and ] at District Library, Guwahati. File:Statue of Kalaguru, Rupkonwar and Natasurjya at Guwahati (Side view).JPG|Statue of ], ] and ] at District Library, Guwahati.
File:Vauna't Laxmi Narayan.jpg|] performance
File:Mask of Samaguri Satra 5.jpg|Mask making in ]
</gallery> </gallery>
] ]
Performing arts include: '']'' (''Onkeeya Naat''), a traditional Vaishnav dance-drama ('']'') popular since the 15th century CE.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} It makes use of large masks of gods, goddesses, demons and animals and in between the plays a ''Sutradhar'' (''Xutrodhar'') continues to narrate the story.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} Performing arts include: '']'' (''Onkeeya Naat''), a traditional Vaishnav dance-drama ('']'') popular since the 15th century CE.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} It makes use of large masks of gods, goddesses, demons and animals and in between the plays a ''Sutradhar'' (''Xutrodhar'') continues to narrate the story.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}}


Besides ] and ''Huchory'' performed during the ], dance forms of tribal minorities such as; ''Kushan nritra'' of Rajbongshi's, '']'' and ''Bordoicikhla'' dance of ], Mishing Bihu, ''Banjar Kekan'' performed during ''Chomangkan'' by ], ] of ] are some of the major folk dances.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bharatonline.com/assam/dance/index.html|title=Dances of Assam – Folk Dances of Assam, Traditional Dances of Assam|website=www.bharatonline.com|access-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620153050/http://www.bharatonline.com/assam/dance/index.html|archive-date=20 June 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> '']'' (''Sotriya'') dance related to Vaishnav tradition is a classical form of dance. Moreover, there are several other age-old dance-forms such as Barpeta's ''Bhortal Nritya'', ], '']'', ''Beula Dance'', ''Ka Shad Inglong Kardom'', ''Nimso Kerung'', etc. The tradition of modern moving theatres is typical of Assam with immense popularity of many ] groups such as ], Sankardev, Abahan, Bhagyadevi, Hengul, ], Itihas etc.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} Besides ] and ''Husori'' performed during the ], dance forms of tribal minorities such as; ''Kushan nritra'' of Rajbongshi's, '']'' and ''Bordoicikhla'' dance of ], Mishing Bihu, ''Banjar Kekan'' performed during ''Chomangkan'' by ], ] of ] are some of the major folk dances.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bharatonline.com/assam/dance/index.html |title=Dances of Assam – Folk Dances of Assam, Traditional Dances of Assam |website=www.bharatonline.com|access-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620153050/http://www.bharatonline.com/assam/dance/index.html|archive-date=20 June 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> '']'' (''Sotriya'') dance related to Vaishnav tradition is a classical form of dance. Moreover, there are several other age-old dance-forms such as Barpeta's ''Bhortal Nritya'', ], '']'', ''Beula Dance'', ''Ka Shad Inglong Kardom'', ''Nimso Kerung'', etc. The tradition of modern moving theatres is typical of Assam with immense popularity of many ] groups such as ], ], etc.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}}


The indigenous folk music has influenced the growth of a modern idiom, that finds expression in the music of artists like ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ''Ganashilpi'' Dilip Sarma, Sudakshina Sarma among many others. Among the new generation, ], ], ] and ].{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} The indigenous folk music has influenced the growth of a modern idiom, that finds expression in the music of artists like ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], among many others. Among the new generation, ], ] and ].{{citation needed|date=June 2015}}
There is an award given in the honour of ] for achievements in the cultural/music world of Assam by the state government.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}} There is an award given in the honour of ] for achievements in the cultural/music world of Assam by the state government.{{citation needed|date=June 2015}}


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Typically, an Assamese meal consists of many things such as '']'' (]) with ''dayl/ daly'' (]), ''masor jool'' (] stew), ''mangxô'' (] ]) and stir fried ] or ] and ].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} Typically, an Assamese meal consists of many things such as '']'' (]) with ''dayl/ daly'' (]), ''masor jool'' (] stew), ''mangxô'' (] ]) and stir fried ] or ] and ].{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


] (ghost pepper) is used in preparation of traditional meat stews]]
The two main characteristics of a traditional meal in Assam are '']'' (an Alkali, named after its main ingredient) and ''tenga'' (Preparations bearing a characteristically ] and ] flavour). ''Khorika'' is the smoked or fire grilled meat eaten with meals. Commonly consumed varieties of ] include ], ], ]/], ], ], ] and ] (among ] and ] indigenous Assamese ethnic groups). ], ], ], ], ], wild ], ] and other birds, ] are also eaten, albeit in moderation.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


The two main characteristics of a traditional meal in Assam are '']'' (an Alkali, named after its main ingredient) and ''tenga'' (Preparations bearing a characteristically ] and ] flavour). ''Khorika'' is the smoked or fire grilled meat eaten with meals. Pitika (mash) is another delicacy of Assam. It includes alu pitika (mashed potatoes), bilahi (tomatoes), bengena (brinjals) or even masor pitika (fish). Commonly consumed varieties of ] include ], ], ]/], ], ], ] and ] (among ] and ] indigenous Assamese ethnic groups). ], ], ], ], ], ] wild ], ] and other birds, ] are also eaten, albeit in moderation.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}
''Khorisa'' (fermented ]) are used at times to flavour curries while they can also be preserved and made into pickles. ''Koldil'' (]) and ] are also used in popular culinary preparations.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/khorisa-turns-natural-preservative/cid/383338|title=khorisa turns natural preservative|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411174159/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/khorisa-turns-natural-preservative/cid/383338|archive-date=11 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

] girl roasting fish and pork in bamboo tubes (''bahor sungha'') in an ethnic festival]]
''Khorisa'' (fermented ]) are used at times to flavour curries while they can also be preserved and made into pickles. ''Koldil'' (]) and ] are also used in popular culinary preparations.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/khorisa-turns-natural-preservative/cid/383338 |title=khorisa turns natural preservative|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411174159/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/khorisa-turns-natural-preservative/cid/383338|archive-date=11 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

] is consumed on festivals by the various indigenous ethnic communities of Assam]]


A variety of different rice cultivars are grown and consumed in different ways, viz., roasted, ground, boiled or just soaked.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} A variety of different rice cultivars are grown and consumed in different ways, viz., roasted, ground, boiled or just soaked.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}
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Another favourite combination is '']'' (fried flatbread), a curry which can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} Another favourite combination is '']'' (fried flatbread), a curry which can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


Many indigenous Assamese communities households still continue to brew their traditional alcoholic ]; examples include: Laupani, Xaaj, Paniyo, Jou, Joumai, Hor, Apang, etc. Such beverages are served during traditional festivities. Declining them is considered socially offensive.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} Many indigenous Assamese communities households still continue to brew their traditional alcoholic ]; examples include: Laupani, Xaaj, Paniyo, Jou, Joumai, Hor, ], Sujen etc. Such beverages are served during traditional festivities. Declining them is considered socially offensive.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


The food is often served in ] dishes and platters like ''Kanhi'', ''Maihang'' and so on.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} Assamese food is generally served in traditional ] dishes and platters like ''Kanhi'', ''Maihang'' and so on.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}


<gallery mode="packed" heights="134">
], one of the foremost figures of ].]]

File:Patot dia maas - Homemade - Assam DSC 012.jpg|Fish cooked in banana leaves
File:Narikol Pitha From Assam - Sweets Table - Wikiconference India 2023 - Hyderabad 2023-04-28 7673.jpg|Narikol ] is a very popular dish especially during ]
</gallery>
], one of the foremost figures of ]]]


=== Literature === === Literature ===
{{Main|Assamese literature}} {{Main|Assamese literature}}
] by ]<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/portrait-of-a-poet-as-an-artist-bishnu-rabha-s-family-compiles-coffee-table-book-on-his-paintings/cid/797447|title=Portrait of a poet as an artist|date=13 October 2003|work=The Telegraph}}</ref>|alt=]]<!----picture should be shrunk to allow text beside it---> ] by ]<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/portrait-of-a-poet-as-an-artist-bishnu-rabha-s-family-compiles-coffee-table-book-on-his-paintings/cid/797447 |title=Portrait of a poet as an artist |date=13 October 2003 |work=The Telegraph |access-date=26 June 2019 |archive-date=26 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626125652/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/north-east/portrait-of-a-poet-as-an-artist-bishnu-rabha-s-family-compiles-coffee-table-book-on-his-paintings/cid/797447 |url-status=live }}</ref>|alt=]]<!----picture should be shrunk to allow text beside it--->


Assamese literature dates back to the composition of ], and later on works like ] by ], which is the first translation of the ] into an ], contributed to Assamese literature.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA3|title=Medieval Indian Literature: Surveys and selections|last=Paniker|first=K. Ayyappa|date=1997|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|isbn=9788126003655}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7LFzfbhmJcMC&pg=PA74|title=The History of Medieval Vaishnavism in Orissa|last=Mukherjee|first=Prabhat|date=1981|publisher=Asian Educational Services|isbn=9788120602298}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vedamsbooks.in/no17118/madhava-kandali-ramayana-composed-assamese-by-sage-great-son-soil-fourteenth-century-ad-2-volumes-translated-into-english-shanti-lal-nagar|title=Madhava Kandali Ramayana : Composed in Assamese by Sage Madhava Kandali, the great son of the soil in the Fourteenth Century CE/Translated into English by Shanti Lal Nagar Translated into English by Shanti Lal Nagar Vedams Books 9788121509350|website=www.vedamsbooks.in|access-date=3 September 2019}}</ref> ]a's ], ], ] and ] tradition backed the 15th-16th century Assamese literature.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bordowathan.com/about-bordowa-than/|title=Bordowa Than – Bordowa Than|access-date=3 September 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=Early history of the Vaiṣṇava faith and movement in Assam : Śaṅkaradeva and his times |last=Neog |first=Maheswar |date=1980 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |isbn=8120800079 |oclc=15304755}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Stewart|first1=Tony K.|last2=Neog|first2=Maheswar|date=April 1988|title=Early History of the Vaiṣṇava Faith and Movement in Assam: Śaṅkaradeva and His Times|journal=Journal of the American Oriental Society|volume=108|issue=2|page=334|doi=10.2307/603683|issn=0003-0279|jstor=603683}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HkR4Fv37URkC&pg=PA189|title=North East India: A Sociological Study|last1=Sociology|first1=Dibrugarh University Department of|last2=Region|first2=Dibrugarh University Centre for Sociological Study of Frontier|last3=Association|first3=North East India Sociological|date=1978|publisher=Concept Publishing Company}}</ref> Written during the Reign of ], the ]s are notable literary works which are prominently historical manuscripts.<ref>{{Cite book|url=http://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.97610|title=Aspects of Early Assamese Literature|last=Kakati|first=Banikanta Ed|date=1953}}</ref> Most literary works are written in Assamese although other local language such as ] and ] are also represented.{{citation needed|date=May 2015}} In the 19th and 20th century, Assamese and other literature was modernised by authors including ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] etc. Assamese literature dates back to the composition of ], and later on works like ] by ], which is the first translation of the ] into an ], contributed to Assamese literature.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA3 |title=Medieval Indian Literature: Surveys and selections |last=Paniker |first=K. Ayyappa |date=1997 |publisher=Sahitya Akademi |isbn=9788126003655 |access-date=1 October 2020 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230336/https://books.google.com/books?id=KYLpvaKJIMEC&pg=PA3 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7LFzfbhmJcMC&pg=PA74 |title=The History of Medieval Vaishnavism in Orissa |last=Mukherjee |first=Prabhat |date=1981 |publisher=Asian Educational Services |isbn=9788120602298 |access-date=3 May 2020 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230336/https://books.google.com/books?id=7LFzfbhmJcMC&pg=PA74 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vedamsbooks.in/no17118/madhava-kandali-ramayana-composed-assamese-by-sage-great-son-soil-fourteenth-century-ad-2-volumes-translated-into-english-shanti-lal-nagar |title=Madhava Kandali Ramayana : Composed in Assamese by Sage Madhava Kandali, the great son of the soil in the Fourteenth Century CE/Translated into English by Shanti Lal Nagar Translated into English by Shanti Lal Nagar Vedams Books 9788121509350 |website=www.vedamsbooks.in |access-date=3 September 2019 |archive-date=3 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190903103038/http://www.vedamsbooks.in/no17118/madhava-kandali-ramayana-composed-assamese-by-sage-great-son-soil-fourteenth-century-ad-2-volumes-translated-into-english-shanti-lal-nagar |url-status=live }}</ref> ]a's ], ], ] and ] tradition backed the 15th-16th century Assamese literature.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bordowathan.com/about-bordowa-than/|title=Bordowa Than – Bordowa Than|access-date=3 September 2019|archive-date=3 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190903103034/http://www.bordowathan.com/about-bordowa-than/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=Early history of the Vaiṣṇava faith and movement in Assam : Śaṅkaradeva and his times |last=Neog |first=Maheswar |date=1980 |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |isbn=8120800079 |oclc=15304755}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Stewart |first1=Tony K. |last2=Neog |first2=Maheswar |date=April 1988 |title=Early History of the Vaiṣṇava Faith and Movement in Assam: Śaṅkaradeva and His Times |journal=Journal of the American Oriental Society |volume=108 |issue=2 |page=334 |doi=10.2307/603683 |issn=0003-0279 |jstor=603683}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HkR4Fv37URkC&pg=PA189 |title=North East India: A Sociological Study |last1=Sociology |first1=Dibrugarh University Department of |last2=Region |first2=Dibrugarh University Centre for Sociological Study of Frontier |last3=Association |first3=North East India Sociological |date=1978 |publisher=Concept Publishing Company |access-date=3 May 2020 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230338/https://books.google.com/books?id=HkR4Fv37URkC&pg=PA189 |url-status=live }}</ref> Written during the Reign of ], the ]s are notable literary works which are prominently historical manuscripts.<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.97610 |title=Aspects of Early Assamese Literature |last=Kakati |first=Banikanta Ed |date=1953}}</ref> Most literary works are written in Assamese although other local language such as ] and ] are also represented.{{citation needed|date=May 2015}} In the 19th and 20th century, Assamese and other literature was modernised by authors including ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] etc.


=== Fine arts === === Fine arts ===
{{Main|Fine Arts of Assam}} {{Main|Painting of Assam}}


The archaic ] ] discovered in and around ] are the earliest examples (c. 300&nbsp;BCE to c. 100&nbsp;CE) of ancient art and architectural works. The remains discovered in Daparvatiya (''Doporboteeya'') archaeological site with a beautiful doorframe in Tezpur are identified as the best examples of artwork in ancient Assam with influence of ] School of Art of the late ] period.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}} The archaic ] ] discovered in and around ] are the earliest examples (c. 300&nbsp;BCE to c. 100&nbsp;CE) of ancient art and architectural works. The remains discovered in Daparvatiya (''Doporboteeya'') archaeological site with a beautiful doorframe in Tezpur are identified as the best examples of artwork in ancient Assam with influence of ] School of Art of the late ] period.{{citation needed|date=July 2015}}
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{{Main|Traditional crafts of Assam|Bell and brass metal crafts of Assam}} {{Main|Traditional crafts of Assam|Bell and brass metal crafts of Assam}}
{{See also|Assam silk}} {{See also|Assam silk}}
Assam has a rich tradition of ], ] and bamboo craft, bell metal and ] craft, silk and cotton ], toy and ] making, ] and ] work, wood craft, ] making, and musical instruments making have remained as major traditions.<ref>{{cite web Assam has a rich tradition of ], ] and bamboo craft, bell metal and ] craft, silk and cotton ], toy and ] making, ] and ] work, wood craft, ] making, and musical instruments making have remained as major traditions.<ref>{{cite web |last=Assam Tourism 2002 |first=Government of Assam |title=Arts and Crafts of Assam in About Assam |url=http://www.assamtourism.org/arts.htm| access-date =3 June 2007| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070407040421/http://www.assamtourism.org/arts.htm| archive-date = 7 April 2007}}</ref>
| last = Assam Tourism 2002
| first = Government of Assam
| title = Arts and Crafts of Assam in About Assam
| url = http://www.assamtourism.org/arts.htm
| access-date =3 June 2007| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070407040421/http://www.assamtourism.org/arts.htm| archive-date = 7 April 2007 }}</ref>


Cane and bamboo craft provide the most commonly used utilities in daily life, ranging from household utilities, weaving accessories, fishing accessories, furniture, musical instruments, construction materials, etc. Utilities and symbolic articles such as ''Sorai'' and ''Bota'' made from bell metal and brass are found in every Assamese household.<ref>{{Citation Cane and bamboo craft provide the most commonly used utilities in daily life, ranging from household utilities, weaving accessories, fishing accessories, furniture, musical instruments, construction materials, etc. Utilities and symbolic articles such as ''Sorai'' and ''Bota'' made from bell metal and brass are found in every Assamese household.<ref>{{Citation |last1=Ranjan |first1=M.P. |last2=Iyer |first2=Nilam |last3=Pandya |first3=Ghanshyam |title=Bamboo and Cane Crafts of Northeast India |publisher=National Institute of Design}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |first=T.K. |last=Nath |title=Bamboo Cane and Assam |place=Guwahati, India |publisher=Industrial Development Bank of India, Small Industries Development Bank of India}}</ref> ] and ] (''Sorthebaary'') are the most important centres of traditional bell-metal and brass crafts. Assam is the home of several types of silks, the most prestigious are: Muga – the natural golden silk, Pat – a creamy-bright-silver coloured silk and Eri – a variety used for manufacturing warm clothes for winter. Apart from ] (''Xualkuchi''), the centre for the traditional silk industry, in almost every parts of the Brahmaputra Valley, rural households produce silk and silk garments with excellent embroidery designs. Moreover, various ethno-cultural groups in Assam make different types of cotton garments with unique embroidery designs and wonderful colour combinations.
| last1 = Ranjan | first1 = M.P. | last2 = Iyer | first2 = Nilam
| last3 = Pandya | first3 = Ghanshyam | title = Bamboo and Cane Crafts of Northeast India
| publisher = National Institute of Design}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | first = T.K.| last = Nath
| title = Bamboo Cane and Assam
| place = Guwahati, India
| publisher = Industrial Development Bank of India, Small Industries Development Bank of India}}</ref> ] and ] (''Sorthebaary'') are the most important centres of traditional bell-metal and brass crafts. Assam is the home of several types of silks, the most prestigious are: Muga – the natural golden silk, Pat – a creamy-bright-silver coloured silk and Eri – a variety used for manufacturing warm clothes for winter. Apart from ] (''Xualkuchi''), the centre for the traditional silk industry, in almost every parts of the Brahmaputra Valley, rural households produce silk and silk garments with excellent embroidery designs. Moreover, various ethno-cultural groups in Assam make different types of cotton garments with unique embroidery designs and wonderful colour combinations.


Moreover, Assam possesses unique crafts of toy and mask making mostly concentrated in the Vaishnav Monasteries, pottery and ] work in western Assam districts and wood craft, iron craft, jewellery, etc. in many places across the region. Moreover, Assam possesses unique crafts of toy and mask making mostly concentrated in the Vaishnav Monasteries, pottery and ] work in western Assam districts and wood craft, iron craft, jewellery, etc. in many places across the region.


<gallery mode="packed" heights="134"> <gallery mode="packed" heights="134">
File:Lil Bahadur Chettri.jpg|]
File:Citra Bhagavata illustration 1.jpg|Citra Bhagavata illustration
File:Art hastividyarnava 2.jpg|A folio from the ] manuscript
File:Citra Bhagavata illustration 2.jpg|{{center|A page of manuscript painting from Assam; The medieval painters used locally manufactured painting materials such as the colours of ] and papers manufactured from aloewood bark}} File:Citra Bhagavata illustration 2.jpg|{{center|A page of manuscript painting from Assam; The medieval painters used locally manufactured painting materials such as the colours of ] and papers manufactured from aloewood bark}}
File:Assam Xorai.png|] made sorai and sophura are important parts of culture File:Assam Xorai.png|] made sorai and sophura are important parts of culture
File:Assam Knahor Knahi.jpg|Assam Kahor (]) Kahi File:Assam Knahor Knahi.jpg|Assam Kahor (]) Kahi
File:Brihat Ushaharan, an medieval-century manuscript painting of Assam from Budhbari Satra.jpg|Brihat Ushaharan, an 18th-century manuscript illustration of Garhgoan school of painting
File:Mayurpokhyi Kehl-Nao (Pleasure boat) of Kamalabari Satra.jpg|Mayurpokhyi Khel-Nao (Pleasure boat) of medieval Assam, used by Badula Ata of Kamalabari Satra
File:Mahisamardini, 18th century Devi bronze metal sculpture from Tinsukia.jpg|18th century Mahisamardini bronze metal sculpture
File:Hastividyarnava Illustration.png|A painting from the folio of ]
File:Mask in the Indian Museum, Kolkata 15.jpg|Mask art of Assam

File:Vrindavani Vastra.jpg|] was woven in the 16th century under the guidance of ]. The large drape illustrates the childhood activities of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan.
</gallery> </gallery>


== Media == == Media ==
Print media include Assamese dailies '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'' and '']''. ''Asom Bani'', ''Sadin'' and ''Janambhumi'' are Assamese weekly newspapers. The English dailies of Assam include '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', ''Eastern Chronicle'' and ''The Hills Times''. '']'', in the Karbi language has the largest circulation of any daily from Karbi Anglong district. ''Bodosa'' has the highest circulation of any Bodo daily from BTR. '']'' is a Bengali daily with editions from Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Silchar and Kolkata. ''Dainik Samayik Prasanga'', ''Dainik Prantojyoti'', ''Dainik Janakantha'' and ''Nababarta Prasanga'' are other prominent Bengali dailies published in the Barak Valley towns of Karimganj and Silchar. Hindi dailies include ''Purvanchal Prahari'', ''Pratah Khabar'' and ''Dainik Purvoday''. Print media include Assamese dailies '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'' and '']''. ''Asom Bani'', ''Sadin'' and ''Janambhumi'' are Assamese weekly newspapers. The English dailies of Assam include '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', ''Eastern Chronicle'' and ''The Hills Times''. '']'', in the Karbi language has the largest circulation of any daily from Karbi Anglong district. ''Bodosa'' has the highest circulation of any Bodo daily from BTR. '']'' is a Bengali daily with editions from Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Silchar and Kolkata. ''Dainik Samayik Prasanga'', ''Dainik Prantojyoti'', ''Dainik Janakantha'' and ''Nababarta Prasanga'' are other prominent Bengali dailies published in the Barak Valley towns of Karimganj and Silchar. Hindi dailies include ''Purvanchal Prahari'', ''Pratah Khabar'' and ''Dainik Purvoday''.


Broadcasting stations of ] have been established in 22 cities across the state. Local news and music are the main priority for those stations. Assam has three public service broadcasting service stations of state-owned ] at Dibrugarh, Guwahati and Silchar. The Guwahati-based satellite news channels include ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. Broadcasting stations of ] have been established in 22 cities across the state. Local news and music are the main priority for those stations. Assam has three public service broadcasting service stations of state-owned ] at Dibrugarh, Guwahati and Silchar. The Guwahati-based satellite news channels include ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].


==Geographical indications==
With the internet users, social media based news sites have become popular. Notable among them are North East Today, G Plus, Northeast Now, Time8 etc.
===Boka Chaul===
] was awarded the ] (GI) status tag from the ], under the ], on 30 July 2018 and is valid until 24 July 2026.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |title=Boka Chaul |url=https://search.ipindia.gov.in/GIRPublic/Application/Details/558 |website=Intellectual Property India |access-date=12 December 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Borthakur |first1=Anwesha |last2=Singh |first2=Pardeep |title=Addressing the Climate Crisis in the Indian Himalayas: Can Traditional Ecological Knowledge Help? |date=2024 |publisher=Springer Nature |isbn=978-3-031-50097-8 |url=https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/Addressing_the_Climate_Crisis_in_the_Ind/_2D8EAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=boka+chaul&pg=PA85&printsec=frontcover |access-date=11 December 2024 |language=en}}</ref>

Lotus Progressive Centre (LPC) and Centre for Environment Education (CEE) from Guwahati, proposed the GI registration of Boka Chaul.<ref>{{cite news |title=Geographical Indication tag sought for Boka Chaul |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/geographical-indication-tag-sought-for-boka-chaul/articleshow/54399008.cms |access-date=11 December 2024 |work=The Times of India |date=19 September 2016}}</ref> After filing the application in July 2018, the rice was granted the GI tag in 2023 by the Geographical Indication Registry in ], making the name "Boka Chaul" exclusive to the rice grown in the region. It thus became the second rice variety from Assam after ] and the 7th type of goods from Assam to earn the GI tag.<ref>{{cite web |title=APEDA launches gluten-free millet products for all age groups at affordable prices |url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1821647&reg=3&lang=1 |website=Press Information Bureau |access-date=11 December 2024}}</ref>

The GI tag protects the rice from illegal selling and marketing, and gives it legal protection and a unique identity.


== See also == == See also ==
Line 1,059: Line 1,031:
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ]


== Notes == == Notes ==
{{notelist}}
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}


== References == == References ==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

== Sources ==
{{refbegin}} {{refbegin}}
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*{{Cite journal|last=Lahiri|first=Nayanjot|date=1984|title=The Pre-Ahom Roots of Medieval Assam|url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/3517004|journal=Social Scientist|volume=12|issue=6|pages=60–69|doi=10.2307/3517004|jstor=3517004|issn=0970-0293}}
* {{cite book|last1=Saikia|first1=Yasmin|title=Fragmented Memories: Struggling to be Tai-Ahom in India|date=2004|publisher=Duke University Press|isbn=082238616X|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WfSmsuO6QugC|language=en}} *{{cite book |last1=Gogoi |first1=Khagen |title=Ahom warfare evolution nature and strategy |date=2017 |location=Gauhati University}}
*{{Cite journal |last=Lahiri |first=Nayanjot |date=1984 |title=The Pre-Ahom Roots of Medieval Assam |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/3517004 |journal=Social Scientist |volume=12 |issue=6 |pages=60–69 |doi=10.2307/3517004 |jstor=3517004 |issn=0970-0293 |access-date=1 July 2021 |archive-date=9 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709232228/https://www.jstor.org/stable/3517004 |url-status=live }}
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* {{citation|last=Directorate of Information and Public Relations |first=Government of Assam |title=Assam at a Glance |url=http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |access-date=25 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006161204/http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |archive-date=6 October 2007 }} * {{cite book |last1=Saikia |first1=Yasmin |title=Fragmented Memories: Struggling to be Tai-Ahom in India |date=2004 |publisher=Duke University Press |isbn=082238616X |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WfSmsuO6QugC |language=en |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230337/https://books.google.com/books?id=WfSmsuO6QugC |url-status=live }}
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* {{citation |last=Directorate of Information and Public Relations |first=Government of Assam |title=Assam at a Glance |url=http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |access-date=25 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006161204/http://janasanyogassam.nic.in/assamataglance.htm |archive-date=6 October 2007 }}
* {{Cite book |last1=Goswami |first1=G. C. |last2=Tamuli |first2=Jyotiprakash |editor-last=Cardona |editor-first=George |editor2-last=Jain |editor2-first=Dhanesh |contribution=Asamiya |title=The Indo-Aryan Languages |year=2003 |pages=391–443 |publisher=Routledge |ref={{harvid|Goswami|2003}}}} * {{Cite book |last1=Goswami |first1=G. C. |last2=Tamuli |first2=Jyotiprakash |editor-last=Cardona |editor-first=George |editor2-last=Jain |editor2-first=Dhanesh |contribution=Asamiya |title=The Indo-Aryan Languages |year=2003 |pages=391–443 |publisher=Routledge |ref={{harvid|Goswami|2003}}}}
* {{citation|author=National Commission for Women |title=Situational Analysis of Women in Assam |year=2004 |url=http://www.ncw.nic.in/pdfreports/Gender%20Profile-Assam.pdf |access-date=5 July 2006 |postscript=. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070615001750/http://www.ncw.nic.in/pdfreports/Gender%20Profile-Assam.pdf |archive-date=15 June 2007 }} * {{citation |author=National Commission for Women |title=Situational Analysis of Women in Assam |year=2004 |url=http://www.ncw.nic.in/pdfreports/Gender%20Profile-Assam.pdf |access-date=5 July 2006 |postscript=. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070615001750/http://www.ncw.nic.in/pdfreports/Gender%20Profile-Assam.pdf |archive-date=15 June 2007 }}
* {{Citation|last=Masica|first=Colin P.|author-link=Colin Masica|year=1993|title=Indo-Aryan Languages|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=J3RSHWePhXwC|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=9780521299442}} * {{Citation |last=Masica |first=Colin P. |author-link=Colin Masica |year=1993 |title=Indo-Aryan Languages |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=J3RSHWePhXwC |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=9780521299442 |access-date=24 April 2020 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230338/https://books.google.com/books?id=J3RSHWePhXwC |url-status=live }}
* {{citation |last=National Mission on Bamboo Applications |title=Assam, State Profile |url=http://www.bambootech.org/subsubTOP.asp?subsubid=101&subid=37&sname=STATE |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929160940/http://www.bambootech.org/subsubTOP.asp?subsubid=101&subid=37&sname=STATE |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 September 2007 }}
* {{citation
* {{citation |last=Revenue Department |first=Government of Assam |title=Revenue Administration – Districts and Subdivisions |url=http://revenueassam.nic.in/ |access-date=25 May 2007 |archive-date=24 July 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070724043102/http://revenueassam.nic.in/ |url-status=live }}
|last = National Mission on Bamboo Applications
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|url = http://www.bambootech.org/subsubTOP.asp?subsubid=101&subid=37&sname=STATE
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070929160940/http://www.bambootech.org/subsubTOP.asp?subsubid=101&subid=37&sname=STATE
|url-status = dead
|archive-date = 29 September 2007
}}
* {{citation
| last = Revenue Department
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| title = Revenue Administration – Districts and Subdivisions
| url = http://revenueassam.nic.in/
| access-date =25 May 2007}}
* Singh, K. S (ed) (2003) ''People of India: Assam Vol XV Parts I and II'', Anthropological Survey of India, Seagull Books, Calcutta * Singh, K. S (ed) (2003) ''People of India: Assam Vol XV Parts I and II'', Anthropological Survey of India, Seagull Books, Calcutta
* {{cite journal |last1=Das |first1=Paromita |year=2005 |title=The Naraka Legends, Aryanisation and the "varnasramadharma" in the Brahmaputra Valley |journal= Proceedings of the Indian History Congress |volume=66 |pages=224–230 |publisher= Indian History Congress |jstor=44145840}} * {{cite journal |last1=Das |first1=Paromita |year=2005 |title=The Naraka Legends, Aryanisation and the "varnasramadharma" in the Brahmaputra Valley |journal=Proceedings of the Indian History Congress |volume=66 |pages=224–230 |publisher=Indian History Congress |jstor=44145840}}
* {{citation|last=UNDP |author-link=UNDP |url=http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |title=Chapter 2, Income, Employment and Poverty in Assam Human Development Report, 2003|publisher=Government of Assam |year=2004 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220213032/http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |archive-date=20 February 2007 }} * {{citation |last=UNDP |author-link=UNDP |url=http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |title=Chapter 2, Income, Employment and Poverty in Assam Human Development Report, 2003 |publisher=Government of Assam |year=2004 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220213032/http://planassam.org/reports/hdr_2003/HRD.htm |archive-date=20 February 2007 }}
* {{citation |last=Wandrey |first=C. J. |title=Sylhet-Kopili/Barail-Tipam Composite Total Petroleum System, Assam Geologic Province, India |url=http://pubs.usgs.gov/bul/2208/D/b2208-d.pdf |journal=US Geological Survey Bulletin |volume=2208-D |year=2004 |page=5 |doi=10.3133/b2208D |bibcode=2004usgs.rept....5W |access-date=30 May 2007 |archive-date=5 June 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070605131756/http://pubs.usgs.gov/bul/2208/D/b2208-d.pdf |url-status=live }}
* {{citation
*{{cite book |last=Casson |first=Lionel |author-link=Lionel Casson |title=The Periplus Maris Erythraei: Text With Introduction, Translation, and Commentary |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qQWYkSs51rEC |year=1989 |publisher=Princeton University Press |isbn=978-0-691-04060-8 |access-date=27 September 2020 |archive-date=1 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230338/https://books.google.com/books?id=qQWYkSs51rEC |url-status=live }}
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| first = C. J.
| title = Sylhet-Kopili/Barail-Tipam Composite Total Petroleum System, Assam Geologic Province, India
| url = http://pubs.usgs.gov/bul/2208/D/b2208-d.pdf
| journal = US Geological Survey Bulletin
| volume = 2208-D
| year = 2004}}
*{{cite book |last=Casson |first=Lionel |author-link=Lionel Casson |title=The Periplus Maris Erythraei: Text With Introduction, Translation, and Commentary |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qQWYkSs51rEC |year=1989 |publisher=Princeton University Press |isbn=978-0-691-04060-8 }}
{{Refend}} {{Refend}}


Line 1,104: Line 1,063:
* '''Online books and material''' * '''Online books and material'''
** (1800) by J.P. Wade ** (1800) by J.P. Wade
** (1819) by Friend of India ** {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201230337/https://books.google.co.in/books?id=OOBAAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA444 |date=1 February 2023 }} (1819) by Friend of India
** (1879) by WW Hunter ** (1879) by WW Hunter
** (1984)by Girin Phukon ** (1984)by Girin Phukon
Line 1,114: Line 1,073:
** (1855) by John Butler ** (1855) by John Butler
* '''Language and literature''' * '''Language and literature'''
** {{citation |first=Mahendra |last=Bara |title=The Evolution of the Assamese Script |place=Jorhat, Assam |publisher=Asam Sahitya Sabha |year=1981}}
** {{citation
** {{citation |last=Barpujari |first=H. K. |title=Amerikan Michanerisakal aru Unabimsa Satikar Asam |place=Jorhat, Assam |publisher=Asam Sahitya Sabha |year=1983}}
| first = Mahendra
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Birinchi Kumar |title=History of Assamese Literature |place=Guwahati |publisher=East-West Centre Press |year=1965}}
| last = Bara
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Hem |title=Assamese Literature |place=New Delhi |publisher=National Book Trust |year=1965}}
| title = The Evolution of the Assamese Script
** {{citation |last=Brown |first=William Barclay |title=An Outline Grammar of the Deori Chutiya Language Spoken in Upper Assam with an Introduction, Illustrative Sentences, and Short Vocabulary |place=Shillong |publisher=The Assam Secretariat Printing Office |year=1895}}
| place = Jorhat, Assam
** {{citation |last=Deka |first=Bhabananda |title=Industrialisation of Assam |place=Guwahati |publisher=Gopal Das |year=1961}}
| publisher = Asam Sahitya Sabha
** {{citation |last=Dhekial Phukan |first=Anandaram 1829–1859 |title=Anandaram Dhekiyal Phukanar Racana Samgrah |place=Guwahati |publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall |year=1977}}
| year = 1981
** {{citation |last=Endle |first=Sidney |title=Outline of the Kachari (Baro) Language as Spoken in District Darrang, Assam |place=Shillong |publisher=Assam Secretariat Press |year=1884}}
}}
** {{citation |last=Gogoi |first=Lila |title=Sahitya-Samskriti-Buranji |place=Dibrugarh |publisher=New Book Stall |year=1972}}
** {{citation
** {{citation |last=Gogoi |first=Lila |title=The Buranjis, Historical Literature of Assam |place=New Delhi |publisher=Omsons Publications |year=1986}}
| last = Barpujari
** {{citation |last=Goswami |first=Praphulladatta |title=Folk-Literature of Assam |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Assam |year=1954}}
| first = H. K.
** {{citation |last=Gurdon |first=Philip Richard Thornhagh |title=Some Assamese Proverbs |place=Shillong |publisher=The Assam Secretariat Printing Office |year=1896 |isbn=1-104-30633-6}}
| title = Amerikan Michanerisakal aru Unabimsa Satikar Asam
** {{citation |last=Kakati |first=Banikanta |title=Aspects of Early Assamese Literature |place=Guwahati |publisher=Gauhati University |year=1959}}
| place = Jorhat, Assam
** {{citation |last=Kay |first=S. P. |title=An English-Mikir Vocabulary |place=Shillong |publisher=The Assam Secretariat Printing Office |year=1904}}
| publisher = Asam Sahitya Sabha
** {{citation |last=Medhi |first=Kaliram |title=Assamese Grammar and Origin of the Assamese Language |place=Guwahati |publisher=Assam Publication Board |year=1988}}
| year = 1983
** {{citation |last=Miles |first=Bronson |title=A Dictionary in Assamese and English |place=Sibsagar, Assam |publisher=American Baptist Mission Press |year=1867}}
}}
** {{citation |last=Morey |first=Stephen |title=The Tai languages of Assam : a grammar and texts |place=Canberra |publisher=Pacific Linguistics |year=2005 |isbn=0-85883-549-5}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Birinchi Kumar
| title = History of Assamese Literature
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = East-West Centre Press
| year = 1965
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Hem
| title = Assamese Literature
| place = New Delhi
| publisher = National Book Trust
| year = 1965
}}
** {{citation
| last = Brown
| first = William Barclay
| title = An Outline Grammar of the Deori Chutiya Language Spoken in Upper Assam with an Introduction, Illustrative Sentences, and Short Vocabulary
| place = Shillong
| publisher = The Assam Secretariat Printing Office
| year = 1895
}}
** {{citation
| last = Deka
| first = Bhabananda
| title = Industrialisation of Assam
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Gopal Das
| year = 1961
}}
** {{citation
| last = Dhekial Phukan
| first = Anandaram 1829–1859
| title = Anandaram Dhekiyal Phukanar Racana Samgrah
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Lawyer's Book Stall
| year = 1977
}}
** {{citation
| last = Endle
| first = Sidney
| title = Outline of the Kachari (Baro) Language as Spoken in District Darrang, Assam
| place = Shillong
| publisher = Assam Secretariat Press
| year = 1884
}}
** {{citation
| last = Gogoi
| first = Lila
| title = Sahitya-Samskriti-Buranji
| place = Dibrugarh
| publisher = New Book Stall
| year = 1972
}}
** {{citation
| last = Gogoi
| first = Lila
| title = The Buranjis, Historical Literature of Assam
| place = New Delhi
| publisher = Omsons Publications
| year = 1986
}}
** {{citation
| last = Goswami
| first = Praphulladatta
| title = Folk-Literature of Assam
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Assam
| year = 1954
}}
** {{citation
| last = Gurdon
| first = Philip Richard Thornhagh
| title = Some Assamese Proverbs
| place = Shillong
| publisher = The Assam Secretariat Printing Office
| year = 1896
| isbn = 1-104-30633-6
}}
** {{citation
| last = Kakati
| first = Banikanta
| title = Aspects of Early Assamese Literature
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Gauhati University
| year = 1959
}}
** {{citation
| last = Kay
| first = S. P.
| title = An English-Mikir Vocabulary
| place = Shillong
| publisher = The Assam Secretariat Printing Office
| year = 1904
}}
** {{citation
| last = Medhi
| first = Kaliram
| title = Assamese Grammar and Origin of the Assamese Language
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Assam Publication Board
| year = 1988
}}
** {{citation
| last = Miles
| first = Bronson
| title = A Dictionary in Assamese and English
| place = Sibsagar, Assam
| publisher = American Baptist Mission Press
| year = 1867
}}
** {{citation
| last = Morey
| first = Stephen
| title = The Tai languages of Assam : a grammar and texts
| place = Canberra
| publisher = Pacific Linguistics
| year = 2005
| isbn =0-85883-549-5
}}
* '''History''' * '''History'''
** {{citation |last=Antrobus |first=H. |title=A History of the Assam Company |place=Edinburgh |publisher=Private Printing by T. and A. Constable |year=1957}}
** {{citation
** {{citation |last=Barabaruwa |first=Hiteswara 1876–1939 |title=Ahomar Din |place=Guwahati |publisher=Assam Publication Board |year=1981}}
| last = Antrobus
** {{citation |last=Barooah |first=Nirode K. |title=David Scott in North-East India, 1802–1831 |place=New Delhi |publisher=Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers |year=1970}}
| first = H.
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Harakanta 1813–1900 |title=Asama Buranji |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Assam |year=1962}}
| title = A History of the Assam Company
** {{citation |last=Barpujari |first=H. K. |title=Assam in the Days of the Company, 1826–1858 |place=Guwahati |publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall |year=1963}}
| place = Edinburgh
** {{citation |last=Barpujari |first=H. K. |title=Political History of Assam. Department for the Preparation of Political History of Assam |place=Guwahati |publisher=Government of Assam |year=1977}}
| publisher = Private Printing by T. and A. Constable
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Kanak Lal |title=An Early History of Kamarupa, From the Earliest Time to the Sixteenth Century |place=Guwahati |publisher=Lawyers Book Stall}}
| year = 1957
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Kanak Lal |title=Studies in the Early History of Assam |place=Jorhat, Assam |publisher=Asam Sahitya Sabha}}
}}
** {{citation |last=Baruah |first=Swarna Lata |title=Last days of Ahom monarchy : a history of Assam from 1769 to 1826 |place=New Delhi |publisher=Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers |year=1993}}
** {{citation
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Anglo-Assamese Relations, 1771–1826 |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Assam |year=1949}}
| last = Barabaruwa
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Annals of the Delhi Badshahate |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Government of Assam |year=1947}}
| first = Hiteswara 1876–1939
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Atan Buragohain and His Times |place=Guwahati |publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall |year=1957}}
| title = Ahomar Din
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Deodhai Asam Buranji |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies |year=1962}}
| place = Guwahati
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Early British Relations with Assam |place=Shillong |publisher=Assam Secretariat Press |year=1928}}
| publisher = Assam Publication Board
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Lachit Barphukan and His Times |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Government of Assam |year=1947}}
| year = 1981
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Satasari Asama Buranji |place=Guwahati |publisher=Gauhati University |year=1964}}
}}
** {{citation |last=Bhuyan |first=Suryya Kumar |title=Swargadew Rajeswarasimha |place=Guwahati |publisher=Assam Publication Board |year=1975}}
** {{citation
** {{citation |last=Buchanan |first=Francis Hamilton 1762–1829 |title=An Account of Assam |place=Guwahati |publisher=Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies |year=1963}}
| last = Barooah
** {{citation |last=Duara Barbarua |first=Srinath |title=Tungkhungia Buranji |place=Bombay |publisher=H. Milford, Oxford University Press |year=1933}}
| first = Nirode K.
** {{citation |last=Gait |first=Edward Albert 1863–1950 |title=A History of Assam |place=Calcutta |publisher=Thacker, Spink & Co. |year=1926}}
| title = David Scott in North-East India, 1802–1831
** {{citation |last=Gogoi |first=Padmeswar |title=The Tai and the Tai Kingdoms |place=Guwahati |publisher=Gauhati University |year=1968}}
| place = New Delhi
** {{citation |last=Guha |first=Amalendu |title=The Ahom Political System |place=Calcutta |publisher=Centre for Studies in Social Sciences |year=1983}}
| publisher = Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers
** {{citation |first=William Wilson 1840–1900 |last=Hunter |title=A Statistical Account of Assam |place=London |publisher=Trubner & Co. |year=1879}}
| year = 1970
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Harakanta 1813–1900
| title = Asama Buranji
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Assam
| year = 1962
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barpujari
| first = H. K.
| title = Assam in the Days of the Company, 1826–1858
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Lawyer's Book Stall
| year = 1963
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barpujari
| first = H. K.
| title = Political History of Assam. Department for the Preparation of Political History of Assam
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Government of Assam
| year = 1977
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Kanak Lal
| title = An Early History of Kamarupa, From the Earliest Time to the Sixteenth Century
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Lawyers Book Stall
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Kanak Lal
| title = Studies in the Early History of Assam
| place = Jorhat, Assam
| publisher = Asam Sahitya Sabha
}}
** {{citation
| last = Baruah
| first = Swarna Lata
| title = Last days of Ahom monarchy : a history of Assam from 1769 to 1826
| place = New Delhi
| publisher = Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers
| year = 1993
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Anglo-Assamese Relations, 1771–1826
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Assam
| year = 1949
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Annals of the Delhi Badshahate
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Government of Assam
| year = 1947
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Atan Buragohain and His Times
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Lawyer's Book Stall
| year = 1957
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Deodhai Asam Buranji
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies
| year = 1962
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Early British Relations with Assam
| place = Shillong
| publisher = Assam Secretariat Press
| year = 1928
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Lachit Barphukan and His Times
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Government of Assam
| year = 1947
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Satasari Asama Buranji
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Gauhati University
| year = 1964
}}
** {{citation
| last = Bhuyan
| first = Suryya Kumar
| title = Swargadew Rajeswarasimha
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Assam Publication Board
| year = 1975
}}
** {{citation
| last = Buchanan
| first = Francis Hamilton 1762–1829
| title = An Account of Assam
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies
| year = 1963
}}
** {{citation
| last = Duara Barbarua
| first = Srinath
| title = Tungkhungia Buranji
| place = Bombay
| publisher = H. Milford, Oxford University Press
| year = 1933
}}
** {{citation
| last = Gait
| first = Edward Albert 1863–1950
| title = A History of Assam
| place = Calcutta
| publisher = Thacker, Spink & Co.
| year = 1926
}}
** {{citation
| last = Gogoi
| first = Padmeswar
| title = The Tai and the Tai Kingdoms
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Gauhati University
| year = 1968
}}
** {{citation
| last = Guha
| first = Amalendu
| title = The Ahom Political System
| place = Calcutta
| publisher = Centre for Studies in Social Sciences
| year = 1983
}}
** {{citation
| first = William Wilson 1840–1900
| last = Hunter
| title = A Statistical Account of Assam
| place = London
| publisher = Trubner & Co.
| year = 1879
}}
* '''Tradition and Culture''' * '''Tradition and Culture'''
** {{citation |last=Barkath |first=Sukumar |title=Hastibidyarnnara Sarasamgraha (English & Assamese), 18th Century |place=Guwahati |publisher=Assam Publication Board |year=1976}}
** {{citation
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Birinchi Kumar |title=A Cultural History of Assam |place=Guwahati |publisher=Lawyer's Book Stall |year=1969}}
| last = Barkath
** {{citation |last=Barua |first=Birinchi Kumar |title=Sankardeva |place=Guwahati |publisher=Assam Academy for Cultural Relations |year=1960}}
| first = Sukumar
** {{citation |last=Gandhiya |first=Jayakanta |title=Huncari, Mukali Bihu, aru Bihunac |place=Dibrugarh |year=1988}}
| title = Hastibidyarnnara Sarasamgraha (English & Assamese), 18th Century
** {{citation |last=Goswami |first=Praphulladatta |title=Ballads and Tales of Assam |place=Guwahati |publisher=Gauhati University |year=1960}}
| place = Guwahati
** {{citation |last=Goswami |first=Praphulladatta |title=Bohag Bihu of Assam and Bihu Songs |place=Guwahati |publisher=Assam Publication Board |year=1988}}
| publisher = Assam Publication Board
** {{citation |last=Mahanta |first=Pona |title=Western Influence on Modern Assamese Drama |place=Delhi |publisher=Mittal Publications |year=1985}}
| year = 1976
** {{citation |last=Medhi |first=Kaliram |title=Studies in the Vaisnava Literature and Culture of Assam |place=Jorhat, Assam |publisher=Asam Sahitya Sabha |year=1978}}
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Birinchi Kumar
| title = A Cultural History of Assam
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Lawyer's Book Stall
| year = 1969
}}
** {{citation
| last = Barua
| first = Birinchi Kumar
| title = Sankardeva
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Assam Academy for Cultural Relations
| year = 1960
}}
** {{citation
| last = Gandhiya
| first = Jayakanta
| title = Huncari, Mukali Bihu, aru Bihunac
| place = Dibrugarh
| year = 1988
}}
** {{citation
| last = Goswami
| first = Praphulladatta
| title = Ballads and Tales of Assam
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Gauhati University
| year = 1960
}}
** {{citation
| last = Goswami
| first = Praphulladatta
| title = Bohag Bihu of Assam and Bihu Songs
| place = Guwahati
| publisher = Assam Publication Board
| year = 1988
}}
** {{citation
| last = Mahanta
| first = Pona
| title = Western Influence on Modern Assamese Drama
| place = Delhi
| publisher = Mittal Publications
| year = 1985
}}
** {{citation
| last = Medhi
| first = Kaliram
| title = Studies in the Vaisnava Literature and Culture of Assam
| place = Jorhat, Assam
| publisher = Asam Sahitya Sabha
| year = 1978
}}
{{refend}} {{refend}}


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** **
* '''General information''' * '''General information'''
*** {{osmrelation-inline|2025886}}
** {{curlie|Regional/Asia/India/Assam}}
** {{osmrelation-inline|2025886}}


{{Geographic location {{Geographic location

Revision as of 20:21, 11 December 2024

State in northeastern India For other uses, see Assam (disambiguation).

State in Northeast India, India
Assam
State
State of Assam
Kamakhya TempleKareng Ghar in GarhgaonRang GharIndian elephants in Manas National ParkMajuli IslandIndian rhinoceros in Kaziranga National ParkAssam tea garden
Official emblem of AssamEmblem of Assam
Etymology: "A-ham" (Uneven) or from "Ahom"
Nickname(s): "Land of red river and blue hills"
Motto(s): Joi Aai Axom
(Hail Mother Assam)
Anthem: "Ö Mür Apünar Dekh"
(O my Dearest Country)
The map of India showing AssamLocation of Assam in India
Coordinates: 26°08′N 91°46′E / 26.14°N 91.77°E / 26.14; 91.77
Country India
RegionNortheast India
Before was State of Assam
Bifurcation21 January 1972
Formation26 January 1950
CapitalDispur
Largest cityGuwahati
Districts35 (5 divisions)
Government
 • BodyGovernment of Assam
 • GovernorLakshman Acharya
 • Chief ministerHimanta Biswa Sarma (BJP)
State LegislatureUnicameral
 • AssemblyAssam Legislative Assembly (126 seats)
National ParliamentParliament of India
 • Rajya Sabha7 seats
 • Lok Sabha14 seats
High CourtGauhati High Court
Area
 • Total78,438 km (30,285 sq mi)
 • Rank16th
Dimensions
 • Length725 km (450 mi)
 • Width30 km (20 mi)
Elevation80 m (260 ft)
Highest elevation1,960 m (6,430 ft)
Lowest elevation45 m (148 ft)
Population
 • TotalIncrease 31,169,272
 • Rank15th
 • Density397/km (1,030/sq mi)
 • Urban14.1%
 • Rural85.9%
DemonymAssamese
Language
 • OfficialAssamese (for entire state except Barak Valley) • Boro (holds one of the official language status for the entire state of Assam) • Meitei (Barak Valley and Hojai district) • Bengali (Barak Valley)
 • Official scriptBengali–Assamese script (for Assamese & Bengali) • Devanagari (for Bodo) • Meitei script (for Meitei)
GDP
 • Total (2024–2025)Neutral increase ₹6.43 lakh crore (US$75 billion)
 • Rank18th
 • Per capitaIncrease ₹118,504 (US$1,400) (18th)
Time zoneUTC+05:30 (IST)
ISO 3166 codeIN-AS
Vehicle registrationAS
HDI (2018)Neutral increase0.614 Medium (30th)
Literacy (2011)Increase 72.19% (26th)
Sex ratio (2011)958 (12th)
Websiteassam.gov.in
Symbols of Assam
Emblem of Assam
Song"Ö Mür Apünar Dekh"
(O my Dearest Country)
Foundation dayAssam Day
BirdWhite-winged duck
FlowerFoxtail orchid
FruitKaji Nemu
MammalIndian rhinoceros
TreeHollong
State highway mark
State highway of Assam
AS SH1 -AS SH48
List of Indian state symbols
• First recognised as an administrative division on 1 April 1911, and led to the establishment of Assam Province by partitioning Province of East Bengal and Assam.
• Assam was one of the original provincial divisions of British India.
• Assam has had a legislature since 1937.

Assam (/əˈsæm, æˈsæm/ ə-SAM, a-SAM; Assamese: [ɔ'xɔm] ) is a state in northeastern India, south of the eastern Himalayas along the Brahmaputra and Barak River valleys. Assam covers an area of 78,438 km (30,285 sq mi). It is the second largest state in northeastern India by area and the largest in terms of population, with more than 31 million inhabitants. The state is bordered by Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh to the north; Nagaland and Manipur to the east; Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram and Bangladesh to the south; and West Bengal to the west via the Siliguri Corridor, a 22-kilometre-wide (14 mi) strip of land that connects the state to the rest of India. Assamese and Bodo are two of the official languages for the entire state and Meitei (Manipuri) is recognised as an additional official language in three districts of Barak Valley and Hojai district. in Hojai district and for the Barak valley region, alongside Bengali, which is also an official language in the Barak Valley.

The state has 35 districts with 5 divisions. Guwahati (containing the state capital Dispur) is the largest city in northeastern India. Assam is known for Assam tea and Assam silk. The state was the first site for oil drilling in Asia. Assam is home to the one-horned Indian rhinoceros, along with the wild water buffalo, pygmy hog, tiger and various species of Asiatic birds, and provides one of the last wild habitats for the Asian elephant. The Assamese economy is aided by wildlife tourism to Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park, which are World Heritage Sites. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is famed for its feral horses. Sal tree forests are found in the state which, as a result of abundant rainfall, look green all year round. Assam receives more rainfall than most parts of India; this rain feeds the Brahmaputra River, whose tributaries and oxbow lakes provide the region with a distinctive hydro-geomorphic environment.

Etymology

Main article: Etymology of Assam

The first dated mention of the region comes from Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (1st century) and Ptolemy's Geographia (2nd century), which calls the region Kirrhadia, apparently after the Kirata population. In the classical period and up to the 12th century, the region east of the Karatoya river, largely congruent to present-day Assam, was called Kamarupa, and alternatively, Pragjyotisha. Though a western portion of Assam as a region continued to be called Kamrup, the Ahom kingdom that emerged in the east, and which came to dominate the entire Brahmaputra valley, was called Assam (e.g. Mughals used Asham); and the British province too was called Assam. Though the precise etymology of Assam is not clear, the name Assam is associated with the Ahom people, originally called Shyam (Shan).

History

Main article: History of Assam

Pre-history

Further information: People of Assam

Assam and adjoining regions have evidences of human settlement from the beginning of the Stone Age. The hills at the height of 1,500 to 2,000 feet (460–615 m) were popular habitats probably due to availability of exposed dolerite basalt, useful for tool-making. Ambari site in Guwahati has revealed Shunga-Kushana era artefacts including flight of stairs and a water tank which may date from 1st century BCE and may be 2,000 years old. Experts speculate that another significant find at Ambari is Roman era Roman roulette pottery from the 2nd century BCE.

Legend

Further information: Danava dynasty, Bhauma dynasty, and Asura kingdom

According to a late text, Kalika Purana (c. 9th–10th century CE), the earliest ruler of Assam was Mahiranga Danav of the Danava dynasty, which was removed by Naraka of Mithila and established the Bhauma dynasty. The last of these rulers, also Naraka, was slain by Krishna. Naraka's son Bhagadatta became the king, who (it is mentioned in the Mahabharata) fought for the Kauravas in the battle of Kurukshetra with an army of kiratas, chinas and dwellers of the eastern coast. At the same time towards the east in central Assam, Asura kingdom was ruled by another line of kings.

Ancient era

Kamarupa kingdom at its heightDeopahar ruins Further information: Kamarupa

Evidence indicates presence of civilisation in Assam around 2nd century BCE, a rock cut stupa at Sri Surya Pahar has been dated to 200 BCE contemporary with rock cut Karle and Bhaja caves of Maharashtra. The site is located in a hilly terrain where several rock-cut shivalingas, votive stupas and the deities of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain pantheon are scattered. Samudragupta's 4th-century-CE Allahabad pillar inscription mentions Kamarupa and Davaka (Central Assam) as frontier kingdoms of the Gupta Empire. Davaka was later absorbed by Kamarupa, which grew into a large kingdom that spanned from Karatoya river to near present Sadiya and covered the entire Brahmaputra valley, North Bengal, parts of Bangladesh and, at times Purnea and parts of West Bengal. The kingdom was ruled by three dynasties who traced their lineage from a mleccha or Kirata Naraka; the Varmanas (c. 350–650 CE), the Mlechchha dynasty (c.655–900 CE) and the Kamarupa-Palas (c. 900–1100 CE), from their capitals in present-day Guwahati (Pragjyotishpura), Tezpur (Haruppeswara) and North Gauhati (Durjaya) respectively. All three dynasties claimed descent from Narakasura. In the reign of the Varman king, Bhaskaravarman (c. 600–650 CE), the Chinese traveller Xuanzang visited the region and recorded his travels. Later, after weakening and disintegration (after the Kamarupa-Palas), the Kamarupa tradition was extended to c. 1255 CE by the Lunar I (c. 1120–1185 CE) and Lunar II (c. 1155–1255 CE) dynasties.

Medieval era

Further information: Kamata kingdom, Koch dynasty, Ahom kingdom, Chutia kingdom, Kachari kingdom, and Baro-Bhuyan

The Medieval Assam history may have started with the advent of Ahoms in the early part of the 13th century and covers their entire rule of 600 years till 1826. The medieval history of Assam is especially known for its conflict with Muslim powers under Turko-Afghan and Mughals, finally resulting in Assamese victory, however, this military glory was shattered in the early 19th century when it failed to resist the Burmese invasions, which led to its annexation.

Chutia kingdom

Chutia, a Bodo-Kachari group by origin, held the regions on both the banks of Brahmaputra with its domain in the area eastwards from Vishwanath (north bank) and Buridihing (south bank), in Upper Assam and in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. It was annexed by the Ahoms in the year 1524. The rivalry between the Chutias and Ahoms for the supremacy of eastern Assam led to a series of conflicts between them from the early 16th century.

Kachari kingdom

Main article: Kachari kingdom

The Dimasa, a Bodo-Kachari dynasty that ruled from the 13th century until 1854, controlled territories stretching from the Dikhow River to central and southern Assam, with their capital at Dimapur. By the early 17th century, with the expansion of the Ahom kingdom, the Chutia regions were annexed, and by around 1536, the Kacharis were confined to the areas of Cachar and North Cachar. At this point, they became more of an ally to the Ahoms than a rival force.

Ahom kingdom

Early period

Main article: Sukaphaa

The Ahoms, a Tai group, ruled Upper Assam for almost 600 years. In the year 1228 the Tai-Ahoms came to the Brahmaputra Valley under the leadership of Sukapha along with 9,000 men from Mong Mao, a Tai state, situated in South-Western Yunnan of China, and established his kingdom in Upper Assam. In 1253, he founded the capital city in a hillock and named it Charaideo. At the time of his advent, the area was inhabited by Morans and Borahis, to the north, to the north-east was the Chutia kingdom and to the south was the Kachari kingdom and to the west on the plains were the Baro-Bhuyans.

For more than two and a half centuries, Sukapha and his descendants, while primarily focused on administering the kingdom, upheld their dominance in the valley through their military prowess.

Charaideo Maidams -UNESCO World Heritage Site ,Assam

Expansion

Main articles: Suhungmung and Dimasa kingdom
Assamese kingdoms in their greatest territorial heights. Kachari kingdom (1230) in red dotted lines, Koch dynasty (1560) in blue lines, Ahom kingdom (1700) in red lines.

The reign of Suhungmung marked the first massive expansion of Ahom kingdom. Besides sending a punitive expeditions against the Nagas, they fought numerous battles with the Bhuyans, Chutias, Kacharis, Turko-Afghans, and the Naras. In 1522–23 the Chutia kingdom was annexed and the captured tract was placed under the administration of Sadiya-Khowa-Gohain. After securing the eastern tract, Suhungmung than expanded his kingdom westwards through conquest and extended it till Marangi to the west of the Dhansiri river. When the Kacharis tried to regain the lost territory they were defeated and their capital Dimapur was sacked. Over the remaining part of the Kachari kingdom, a new king Detsung was placed as a tributary, but Detsung proved disloyal and revolted against the Ahoms. He was subsequently executed. A new dependent king was set up on the Kachari throne with the name of Nirbhaynarayan. Since then the Kachari kings were regarded as 'thapita sanchita' meaning - established and maintained by the Ahom rulers.

Suhungmung's reign also witnessed the first Muslim-invasions of the kingdom. After a series of battle, the invaders were roundly defeated and were chased up to Karatoya River. The Sultan of Bengal, terrified by the approaching army of Suhungmung, made peace by offering his two daughters and five paraganas, along with other articles as dowry to the king. The rising Koch king Biswa Singha also offered his submission, and the Ahom general Ton-Kham granted him all the territories that were received as dowry from the Sultan of Bengal on the condition of annual tribute.

The successors of Suhungmung, Suklenmung and Sukhaamphaa, sent many expeditions against the Bhuyans and Nagas. But were significant with the wars with the Koch. During the reign of Sukhaamphaa, the Ahoms lost to a Koch army led by Chilarai and the Ahoms had to accept Koch supremacy and had to give up the tracts of north of Brahmaputra. However, the lost tract was soon recovered with further military expeditions.

Later Period

War with Mughals

Main articles: Ahom kingdom, Bengal Subah, Koch dynasty, and Ahom–Mughal conflicts
Cannon captured from the Mughals

Soon after the death of Nara Narayan his kingdom, got divided between the sons of Nara Narayan and Chilarai as Koch Hajo and Koch Bihar. In 1609, Laxmi Narayan king of Cooch Behar accepted the vassalage of Mughals, and the Koch Hajo king Raghudev and later his son Parikshit sought assistance from Ahoms. In 1612, the Mughals attacked Koch Hajo and his territory up to Barnadi River were annexed in the Mughal domain. This brought the Mughals with direct contact with Ahoms. Meanwhile, Parikshit was trying to renew his friendship with Ahoms, but got captured, and died on his way to his kingdom. Later Balinarayan, a brother of Parikshit who had taken refugee under the Ahoms was made the king of Darrang in 1615 by the Ahom king Pratap Singha. From 1616, onwards many battles were fought the Mughal without any tangible result, with the first Battle of Samdhara till after the last battle where the treaty was concluded in 1639 which fixed the Asurar ali on the south bank and the Barnadi on the north bank of the Brahmaputra as the boundary between the two. Pratap Singha had also enacted the Paik system and created a number of army and civil administration posts such as the Borbarua and Borphukan.

Garchuk Lachit Garh a 17th-century mud fort ruins

Jayadhwaj Singha taking the advantage of War of succession between the sons of Shah Jahan, occupied the imperial territories up to Dhaka. Aurangzeb after becoming the emperor, appointed Mir Jumla II, to recover the lost territory. After fail negotiations. In November 1661, Mir Jumla proceeded with a huge army and fleet to invade Ahom kingdom. Here the Ahoms, lost at several places, and then captured the Ahom capital Garhgaon. During the rainy season Mir Jumla and his army suffered immeasurable hardship due to the climatic condition of the valley in addition the guerrilla fighting resorted against the invaders. And at last no noticeable gain, negotiation started and in January 1663, Treaty of Ghilajharighat was concluded. According to the treaty, the Ahoms had to acknowledging Mughal supremacy, ceded the territory west of the Bharali on the north bank and the Kalang on the south bank along with a huge amount of war indemnity and handing over the sons of the Gohains as hostage and two Ahom princesses to the Mughal harem.

Soon after the departure of Mir Jumla, Jayadhwaj Singha died and the new king Chakradhwaj Singha began preparations to overthrow Mughal supremacy and to recover the lost territory. After numerous battles, finally after the Battle of Saraighat the Mughals were forced to retreat.

The period after 1671 was very unstable due to the rivalry among the nobles, who wanted to arrest their own political power and influence by placing their own choice of prince in the throne. In 1679, Laluksola Borphukan, in hopes of becoming king with the help of Mughals, surrendered Guwahati without any battle. But after the accession of Gadadhar Singha, fought the final Battle of Itakhuli where the Mughals were badly defeated. And the since then the border was fixed at Manah on the north bank and the Nagarbera hill on the south bank of the Brahmaputra till its annexation by the East India Company in 1826.

18th century

See also: Rudra Singha, Siva Singha, and Moamoria rebellion
Siva dol, Devi dol and Vishnu dol on the banks Sivasagar tank, the largest temple constructed during Ahom era
Royal court of Siva Singha and Ambika by Badha Ligira, c. 1736.

Rudra Singha succeeded Gadadhar Singha, his reign is notable because of his military achievements and his socio-culture contributions. He had both subjugated the Kachari and Jaintia kingdoms, and had captured their kings and forced to accept Ahom suzerainty and agreed them to pay annual tribute. Other than that, several expeditions were sent against the Miris, the Daflas, the Naga Mishmis and the Nagas of Namsung, Dayang and the Rengma Nagas during late 17th century and early 18th century. Rudra Singha had made extensive preparations for his invasion of Bengal but remained unfulfilled due to his sudden death in 1714.

After Rudra Singha, the Ahoms achieved no notable military achievement. During this period from, Siva Singha to Rajeswar Singha, the kingdom witnessed peace and prosperity and was significant for constructive activities and other development. In the field of religion also, Ekasarana Dharma spread all over the kingdom and started to influence all aspects of people's life. The religious heads of Vaisnavite monastery exalted great influence with royal patronage and established numerous Satras and most of the people became their disciples. So got the Ahom court greatly came under the influence of Sakta Brahman priests and astrologers. The religious policies concluded by Phuleshwari and the persecutions of unfavored Satras, embroiled the situation more along with the pressure of Paik system in the 18th century.

This finally resulted in the Moamoria rebellion (1769–1805), which greatly weakened the Ahom kingdom where the country was greatly depopulated and unorganised. The political rivalry between the nobles made a pathway for the Burmese to invade and weakened it more and finally leading to its annexation.

Colonial era

Map of Eastern Bengal and Assam during 1907–1909
A map of the British Indian Empire in 1909 during the partition of Bengal (1905–1911), showing British India in two shades of pink (coral and pale) and the princely states in yellow. The Assam Province (initially as the Province of Eastern Bengal and Assam) can be seen towards the north-eastern side of India.
Further information: Colonial Assam and Assam Province

The discovery of Camellia sinensis in 1834 in Assam was followed by testing in 1836–37 in London. The British allowed companies to rent land from 1839 onwards. Thereafter tea plantations proliferated in Eastern Assam, where the soil and the climate were most suitable. Problems with the imported Han Chinese labourers from China and hostility from native Assamese resulted in the migration of forced labourers from central and eastern parts of India. After initial trial and error with planting the Chinese and the Assamese-Chinese hybrid varieties, the planters later accepted the local Camellia assamica as the most suitable variety for Assam. By the 1850s, the industry started seeing some profits. The industry saw initial growth, when in 1861, investors were allowed to own land in Assam and it saw substantial progress with the invention of new technologies and machinery for preparing processed tea during the 1870s.

Despite the commercial success, tea labourers continued to be exploited, working and living under poor conditions. Fearful of greater government interference, the tea growers formed the Indian Tea Association in 1888 to lobby to retain the status quo. The organisation was successful in this, but even after India's independence, conditions of the labourers have improved very little.

In the later part of the 18th century, religious tensions and atrocities by the nobles led to the Moamoria rebellion (1769–1805), resulting in tremendous casualties of lives and property. The rebellion was suppressed but the kingdom was severely weakened by the civil war. Political rivalry between Prime Minister Purnananda Burhagohain and Badan Chandra Borphukan, the Ahom Viceroy of Western Assam, led to an invitation to the Burmese by the latter, in turn leading to three successive Burmese invasions of Assam. The reigning monarch Chandrakanta Singha tried to check the Burmese invaders but he was defeated after fierce resistance, which led to the Burmese occupation of Assam.

A reign of terror was unleashed by the Burmese on the Assamese people, who fled to neighbouring kingdoms and British-ruled Bengal. The Burmese reached the East India Company's borders, and the First Anglo-Burmese War ensued in 1824. The war ended under the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826, with the Company taking control of Western Assam and installing Purandar Singha as king of Upper Assam in 1833. The arrangement lasted until 1838 and thereafter the British gradually annexed the entire region. Thereafter the court language and medium of instruction in educational institutions of Assam was made Bengali, instead of Assamese. Starting from 1836 until 1873, this imposition of a foreign tongue created greater unemployment among the People of Assam and Assamese literature naturally suffered in its growth.

Showing a historical incident at Kanaklata Udyan, Tezpur

Initially, Assam was made a part of the Bengal Presidency, then in 1906 it was made a part of Eastern Bengal and Assam province, and in 1912 it was reconstituted into a chief commissioners' province. In 1913, a legislative council and, in 1937, the Assam Legislative Assembly, were formed in Shillong, the erstwhile capital of the region. The British tea planters imported labour from central India adding to the demographic canvas.

The Assam territory was first separated from Bengal in 1874 as the 'North-East Frontier' non-regulation province, also known as the Assam Chief-Commissionership. It was incorporated into the new province of Eastern Bengal and Assam in 1905 after the partition of Bengal (1905–1911) and re-established in 1912 as Assam Province.

After a few initially unsuccessful attempts to gain independence for Assam during the 1850s, anti-colonial Assamese joined and actively supported the Indian National Congress against the British from the early 20th century, with Gopinath Bordoloi emerging as the preeminent nationalist leader in the Assam Congress. Bordoloi's major political rival in this time was Sir Saidullah, who was representing the Muslim League, and had the backing of the influential Muslim cleric Maulana Bhasani.

The Assam Postage Circle was established by 1873 under the headship of the Deputy Post Master General.

At the turn of the 20th century, British India consisted of eight provinces that were administered either by a governor or a lieutenant-governor. Assam Province was one among the major eight provinces of British India. The table below shows the major original provinces during British India covering the Assam Province under the Administrative Office of the Chief Commissioner.

With the partition of India in 1947, Assam became a constituent state of India. The Sylhet District of Assam (excluding the Karimganj subdivision) was given up to East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh.

Modern history

See also: Assam separatist movements
Assam till the 1950s; The new states of Nagaland, Meghalaya and Mizoram formed in the 1960–70s. The capital of Assam was shifted to Dispur, a suburb of Guwahati. After the Indo-China war in 1962, Arunachal Pradesh was also separated out.

The government of India, which has the unilateral powers to change the borders of a state, divided Assam into several states beginning in 1970 within the borders of what was then Assam. In 1963, the Naga Hills district became the 16th state of India under the name of Nagaland. Part of Tuensang was added to Nagaland. In 1970, in response to the demands of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo people of the Meghalaya Plateau, the districts containing the Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills were formed into an autonomous state within Assam; in 1972 this became a separate state under the name of Meghalaya. In 1972, Arunachal Pradesh (the North East Frontier Agency) and Mizoram (from the Mizo Hills in the south) were separated from Assam as union territories; both became states in 1986.

Since the restructuring of Assam after independence, communal tensions and violence remain. Separatist groups began forming along ethnic lines, and demands for autonomy and sovereignty grew, resulting in the fragmentation of Assam. In 1961, the government of Assam passed legislation making use of the Assamese language compulsory. It was withdrawn later under pressure from Bengali speaking people in Cachar. In the 1980s the Brahmaputra valley saw a six-year Assam Agitation triggered by the discovery of a sudden rise in registered voters on electoral rolls. It tried to force the government to identify and deport foreigners illegally migrating from neighbouring Bangladesh and to provide constitutional, legislative, administrative and cultural safeguards for the indigenous Assamese majority, which they felt was under threat due to the increase of migration from Bangladesh. The agitation ended after an accord (Assam Accord 1985) between its leaders and the Union Government, which remained unimplemented, causing simmering discontent.

The post 1970s experienced the growth of armed separatist groups such as the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB). In November 1990, the Government of India deployed the Indian army, after which low-intensity military conflicts and political homicides have been continuing for more than a decade. In recent times, ethnically based militant groups have grown. The Panchayati Raj Act has been applied in Assam, after agitation of the communities due to the sluggish rate of development and general apathy of successive state governments towards Indigenous Assamese communities.

Deadly floods hit the state in 2020 and 2022.

Geography

Environs: Assam, dissected hills of the South Indian Plateau system and the Himalayas all around its north, north-east and east.
Main article: Physical geography of Assam See also: Tourism in North East India

A significant geographical aspect of Assam is that it contains three of six physiographic divisions of India – The Northern Himalayas (Eastern Hills), The Northern Plains (Brahmaputra plain) and Deccan Plateau (Karbi Anglong). As the Brahmaputra flows in Assam the climate here is cold and there is rainfall most of the month. Geomorphic studies conclude that the Brahmaputra, the life-line of Assam, is an antecedent river older than the Himalayas, which has entrenched itself since they started rising. The river with steep gorges and rapids in Arunachal Pradesh entering Assam, becomes a braided river (at times 10 mi/16 km wide) and with tributaries, creates a flood plain (Brahmaputra Valley: 50–60 mi/80–100 km wide, 600 mi/1000 km long). The hills of Karbi Anglong, North Cachar and those in and close to Guwahati (also Khasi-Garo Hills) now eroded and dissected are originally parts of the South Indian Plateau system. In the south, the Barak originating in the Barail Range (Assam-Nagaland border) flows through the Cachar district with a 25–30 miles (40–50 km) wide valley and enters Bangladesh with the name Surma River.

Urban centres include Guwahati, one of the 100 fastest growing cities in the world. Guwahati is also referred to as the "Gateway to the North-East India". Silchar, (in the Barak valley) is the second most populous city in Assam and an important centre of business. Other large cities include Dibrugarh, an oil and natural gas industry centre,

Climate

With the tropical monsoon climate, Assam is temperate (summer max. at 95–100 °F or 35–38 °C and winter min. at 43–46 °F or 6–8 °C) and experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. The climate is characterised by heavy monsoon downpours reducing summer temperatures and affecting foggy nights and mornings in winters, frequent during the afternoons. Spring (March–April) and autumn (September–October) are usually pleasant with moderate rainfall and temperature. Assam's agriculture usually depends on the south-west monsoon rains.

Flooding

See also: Brahmaputra floods

Every year, rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak overflow due to heavy rainfall, causing widespread flooding across Assam. The rising water levels submerge nearby areas, washing away houses, livestock, and damaging infrastructure such as bridges, railway tracks, and roads, leading to communication breakdowns in many regions. This natural disaster also results in numerous fatalities throughout the state.

Fauna

See also: Biodiversity of Assam Rhinoceros unicornisAn Indian rhino at Kaziranga National ParkGolden langurAn endangered golden langur

Assam is one of the richest biodiversity zones in the world and consists of tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, riverine grasslands, bamboo orchards and numerous wetland ecosystems; Many are now protected as national parks and reserved forests.

Assam has wildlife sanctuaries, the most prominent of which are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites-the Kaziranga National Park, on the bank of the Brahmaputra River, and the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, near the border with Bhutan. The Kaziranga is a refuge for the fast-disappearing Indian one-horned rhinoceros. The state is the last refuge for numerous other endangered and threatened species including the white-winged wood duck or deohanh, Bengal florican, black-breasted parrotbill, red-headed vulture, white-rumped vulture, greater adjutant, Jerdon's babbler, rufous-necked hornbill, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, pygmy hog, gaur, wild water buffalo, Indian hog deer, hoolock gibbon, golden langur, capped langur, barasingha, Ganges river dolphin, Barca snakehead, Ganges shark, Burmese python, brahminy river turtle, black pond turtle, Asian forest tortoise, and Assam roofed turtle. Threatened species that are extinct in Assam include the gharial, a critically endangered fish-eating crocodilian, and the pink-headed duck (which may be extinct worldwide). For the state bird, the white-winged wood duck, Assam is a globally important area. In addition to the above, there are three other National Parks in Assam namely Dibru Saikhowa National Park, Nameri National Park and the Orang National Park.

Assam has conserved the one-horned Indian rhinoceros from near extinction, along with the pygmy hog, tiger and numerous species of birds, and it provides one of the last wild habitats for the Asian elephant. Kaziranga and Manas are both World Heritage Sites. The state contains Sal tree forests and forest products, much depleted from earlier times. A land of high rainfall, Assam displays greenery. The Brahmaputra River tributaries and oxbow lakes provide the region with hydro-geomorphic environment.

The state has the largest population of the wild water buffalo in the world. The state has the highest diversity of birds in India with around 820 species. With subspecies the number is as high as 946. The mammal diversity in the state is around 190 species.

Blooming of Kopou Orchid marks the beginning of the festive season of Bihu in Assam.

Flora

Assam is remarkably rich in Orchid species and the Foxtail orchid is the state flower of Assam. The recently established Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park boasts more than 500 of the estimated 1,314 orchid species found in India.

Geology

Assam has petroleum, natural gas, coal, limestone and other minor minerals such as magnetic quartzite, kaolin, sillimanites, clay and feldspar. A small quantity of iron ore is available in western districts. Discovered in 1889, all the major petroleum-gas reserves are in Upper parts. A recent USGS estimate shows 399 million barrels (63,400,000 m) of oil, 1,178 billion cubic feet (3.34×10 m) of gas and 67 million barrels (10,700,000 m) of natural gas liquids in the Assam Geologic Province.

The region is prone to natural disasters like annual floods and frequent mild earthquakes. Strong earthquakes were recorded in 1869, 1897, and 1950.

Demographics

Main articles: Demography of Assam, Assamese people, Assamese Manipuri people, and People of Assam

Population

Historical population
YearPop.±%
1901 3,289,680—    
1911 3,848,617+17.0%
1921 4,636,980+20.5%
1931 5,560,371+19.9%
1941 6,694,790+20.4%
1951 8,028,856+19.9%
1961 10,837,329+35.0%
1971 14,625,152+35.0%
1981 18,041,248+23.4%
1991 22,414,322+24.2%
2001 26,655,528+18.9%
2011 31,205,576+17.1%
Source: Census of India
People gathered at Kamakhya Temple for the Ambubachi Mela

The total population of Assam was 26.66 million with 4.91 million households in 2001. Higher population concentration was recorded in the districts of Kamrup, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Barpeta, Dhubri, Darrang, and Cachar. Assam's population was estimated at 28.67 million in 2006 and at 30.57 million in 2011 and is expected to reach 34.18  million by 2021 and 35.60 million by 2026.

As per the 2011 census, the total population of Assam was 31,169,272. The total population of the state has increased from 26,638,407 to 31,169,272 in the last ten years with a growth rate of 16.93%.

Of the 33 districts, Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, Morigaon, Nagaon, and Hailakandi, recorded growth rates ranging from 20 per cent to 24 per cent during the last decade, whereas Sivasagar and Jorhat, registered around 9 per cent population growth. These districts do not have any international border.

District-wise Demographic Characteristics in 2001

In 2011, the literacy rate in the state was 73.18%. The male literacy rate was 78.81% and the female literacy rate was 67.27%. In 2001, the census had recorded literacy in Assam at 63.3% with male literacy at 71.3% and female at 54.6%. The urbanisation rate was recorded at 12.9%.

The growth of population in Assam has increased since the middle decades of the 20th century. The population grew from 3.29 million in 1901 to 6.70 million in 1941. It increased to 14.63 million in 1971 and 22.41 million in 1991. The growth in the Western districts and Southern districts was high primarily due to the influx of large number of illegal immigrants from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh.

The mistrust and clashes between indigenous Assamese people and Bengali Muslims started as early as 1952, but is rooted in anti Bengali sentiments of the 1940s. At least 77 people died and 400,000 people were displaced in the 2012 Assam violence between indigenous Bodos and Bengali Muslims.

The People of India project has studied 115 of the ethnic groups in Assam. 79 (69%) identify themselves regionally, 22 (19%) locally, and 3 trans-nationally. The earliest settlers were Austroasiatic, Dravidian followed by Tibeto-Burman, Indo-Aryan, and Tai–Kadai people. Forty-five languages are spoken by different communities, including three major language families: Austroasiatic (5), Sino-Tibetan (24) and Indo-European (12). Three of the spoken languages do not fall in these families. There is a high degree of bilingualism.

Religions

See also: Hinduism in Assam, Islam in Assam, Christianity in Assam, and Ahom religion
Kamakhya Temple
Panbari Mosque, Dhubri
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Religion in Assam (2011)

  Hinduism (61.47%)  Islam (34.22%)  Christianity (3.74%)  Buddhism (0.18%)  No religious (0.16%)  Tribal Religion (0.09%)  Jainism (0.08%)  Sikhism (0.07%)
Basistha Temple in Guwahati.

According to the 2011 census, 61.47% were Hindus, 34.22% were Muslims. Christian minorities (3.7%) are found among the Scheduled Tribe and Castes population. The Scheduled Tribe population in Assam is around 13%, of which Bodos account for 40%. Other religions followed include Jainism (0.1%), Buddhism (0.2%), Sikhism (0.1%) and Animism (among Khamti, Phake, Aiton etc. communities).

The three popular sects of Hinduism, namely, Shaivisim, Shaktism, and Vaishnavism are prevalent here. Many Assamese Hindus are also followers of the Ekasarana Dharma sect of Hinduism.

Assam's Religious diversity as of the 2011 census
Religion Population
Hindus () 19,180,759
Muslims () 10,679,345
Christians () 1,165,867
Buddhists () 54,993
Jains () 25,949
Sikhs () 20,672
Other religions 27,118
Not stated/available 50,873
Total 31,205,576

Out of 32 districts of Assam, 9 are Muslim majority according to the 2011 census of India. The districts are Dhubri, Goalpara, Barpeta, Morigaon, Nagaon, Karimganj, Hailakandi, Darrang and Bongaigaon.

Languages

See also: Assamese language, Assamese literature, Bengali language, Bodo language, and Meitei language in Assam
7th–8th century specimen of Assamese (Kamarupi) literature

Languages of Assam (2011)

  Assamese (48.38%)  Bengali (28.92%)  Bodo (4.51%)  Hindi (3.21%)  Sadri (2.29%)  Mishing (1.98%)  Nepali (1.91%)  Karbi (1.64%)  Others (7.16%)

Assamese and Bodo are the official languages of the state, Meitei (Manipuri) is official in Hojai district and all the three districts of Barak Valley, while Bengali is official in the three districts of Barak Valley, where Sylheti is most commonly spoken.

Assam linguistic diversity as per (2011 census)
Language Population
Assamese 15,097,257
Bengali 9,024,652
Bodo 1,407,371
Hindi 1,001,698
Sadri 714,607
Mishing 617,870
Nepali 596,026
Karbi 511,771
Others 2,234,319
Total 31,205,576
An early 18th century illustrated Assamese manuscript

According to the language census of 2011 in Assam, out of a total population of around 31 million, Assamese is spoken by more than 22 million total speakers, with more than 15 million people speaking it as their mother tongue and around 7 million as L2 speakers. Although the number of speakers is growing, the percentage of Assam's population who have it as a mother tongue has fallen slightly. Assamese serves as lingua franca of the region as it is spoken by over 71% of the population (including the one who have listed Assamese as their 2nd language, while 48.38% of them speak it as their mother tongue. According to the 24th Edition of Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Assamese is spoken by 15,327,990 persons as mother tongue across the world as of 2021. However, 2016 Assam Legislative Assembly election results, have found that 10 million people speaks Assamese as their mother tongue in Assam, which is significantly fewer than the census result of 2011. The Assamese speakers constituted 48% of the State population according to the 2011 Census.

Tai-Ahom manuscript (Buranji)

The various Bengali dialects and closely related languages are spoken by around 9 million people in Assam, and the portion of the population that speaks these languages has grown slightly as per the census. However, the number of Bengali speakers is estimated to be more than the expected census results, as 30% of the of 35% Muslim population in Assam as per 2011 are thought to speak different dialects of Bengali as their native language but during census enumeration, they have reported their mother tongue as Assamese. In the Brahmaputra Valley, the main Bengali dialect is that of Mymensingh (now in Bangladesh), while in the Barak Valley and Hojai district, Sylheti is the main language which is also considered to be a dialect of Bengali in census. Bodo is the third most-spoken language followed by Hindi which comes under fourth position.

See also: Brahmaputra valley
Brahmaputra valley region of Assam

Languages spoken in Brahmaputra valley (2011)

  Assamese (Official) (55.65%)  Bengali (22.1%)  Hindi (7.6%)  Bodo (5.13%)  Others (9.52%)

The population of the Brahmaputra Valley is 27,580,977 according to the 2011 census report by the Assam government. Assamese is the official language of the Brahmaputra Valley and is spoken by 15 million people comprising 55.65% of the valley population. Bengali is spoken by 6.09 million people representing 22.1% of the valley, Hindi is spoken by 2.1 million comprising 7.61% of the region, Bodo is spoken by 1.41 million comprising 5.13% of the valley's population and 2.98 million people speak various indigenous tribal languages of Assam, such as Karbi, Tiwa (Lalung), Hmar, Deori, Rabha, Mishing, Koch, Rajbangshi, Garo, Dimasa, Gorkha, Halam, Ao and Motak.

Traditionally, Assamese was the language of the common folk in the ancient Kamarupa kingdom and in the medieval kingdoms of Dimasa Kachari, Chutiya Kachari, Borahi Kachari, Ahom and Kamata kingdoms. Traces of the language are found in many poems by Luipa, Sarahapa, and others, in Charyapada (c. 7th–8th century CE). Modern dialects such as Kamrupi and Goalpariya are remnants of this language, which blend into the Rajbanshi and Rangpuri lects spoken in North Bengal which have the same origin. Moreover, Assamese in its traditional form was used by the ethno-cultural groups in the region as lingua-franca, which spread during the stronger kingdoms and was required for economic integration. Localised forms of the language still exist in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.

Linguistically modern Assamese traces its roots to the version developed by the American Missionaries based on the local form used near Sivasagar (Xiwôxagôr) district. Assamese (Ôxômiya) is a rich language due to its hybrid nature and unique characteristics of pronunciation and softness. The presence of Voiceless velar fricative in Assamese makes it a unique among other similar Indo-Aryan languages.

Bodo is spoken largely in Western Assam. It is official language of the Bodoland territorial region and co-official language of the state of Assam. It is also one of twenty-two languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Spatial distribution patterns of the ethno-cultural groups, cultural traits and the phenomenon of naming all the major rivers in the North East Region with Bodo-Kachari words (e.g. Dihing, Dibru, Dihong, D/Tista, and Dikrai) reveal that it was more widely-spoken in ancient times. Other languages of Tibeto-Burman origin and related to Bodo-Kachari are Deori, Mising, Karbi, Rabha, and Tiwa.

There are approximately 590,000 Nepali speakers spread all over the state forming about 1.98% of Assam's total population according to 2011 census.

There are speakers of Tai languages in Assam. A total of six Tai languages were spoken in Assam. Two are now extinct.

Government and politics

Main articles: Government of Assam and Politics of Assam

Assam has Governor Lakshman Acharya as the head of the state, the unicameral Assam Legislative Assembly of 126 members, and a government led by the Chief Minister of Assam. The state is divided into five regional divisions.

On 19 May 2016, BJP under the leadership of Sarbananda Sonowal won the Assembly elections, thus forming the first BJP-led government in Assam.

Administrative districts

1. Tinsukia 2. Dibrugarh 3. Dhemaji 4. Charaideo 5. Sivasagar 6.Lakhimpur 7. Majuli 8. Jorhat 9. Biswanath(merged with Sonitpur district) 10. Golaghat 11. Karbi Anglong 12. Sonitpur 13. Nagaon 14. Hojai(merged with Nagaon district)15. Karbi Anglong West 16. Dima Hasao 17. Cachar 18. Hailakandi 19. Karimganj 20. Morigaon 21. Udalguri 22. Darrang 23. Kamrup Metro 24. Baksa 25. Nalbari 26. Kamrup 27. Barpeta 28. Chirang 29. Bongaigaon 30. Goalpara 31. Kokrajhar 32. Dhubri 33. South Salmara Mankachar 34. Bajali(merged with Barpeta district)
Main article: List of districts of Assam

The 31 administrative districts of Assam are delineated based on geographic features such as rivers, hills, and forests.

On 15 August 2015, five new districts were formed:

On 27 June 2016, an island in the Brahmaputra River was bifurcated from the Jorhat district and declared the Majuli district, India's first district that is a river island.

On 12 January 2021, Bajali was carved out from Barpeta district and formally declared as a district. With the announcement made by Governor Jagdish Mukhi, it has become the 34th district of Assam.

On 31 December 2022, existing four districts Bajali (with Barpeta), Tamulpur(with Udalguri), Biswanath (with Sonitpur) and Hojai(with Nagaon) and number of district came down to 31.

However, after the delimitation exercise was carried out in Assam, the Assam Cabinet reconstituted the 4 new districts (Bajali, Tamulpur, Biswanath and Hojai), taking the number of districts to 35 again.

Subdivisions

The administrative districts are further subdivided into 54 "Subdivisions" or Mahakuma. Every district is administered from a district headquarters with the office of the Deputy Commissioner, District Magistrate, Office of the District Panchayat and usually with a district court.

The local governance system is organised under the jila-parishad (District Panchayat) for a district, panchayat for group of or individual rural areas and under the urban local bodies for the towns and cities. There are now 2489 village panchayats covering 26247 villages in Assam. The 'town-committee' or nagar-somiti for small towns, 'municipal board' or pouro-sobha for medium towns and municipal corporation or pouro-nigom for the cities consist of the urban local bodies.

For revenue purposes, the districts are divided into revenue circles and mouzas; for the development projects, the districts are divided into 219 'development-blocks' and for law and order these are divided into 206 police stations or thana.

Guwahati is the largest metropolitan area and urban conglomeration administered under the highest form of urban local body – Guwahati Municipal Corporation in Assam. The Corporation administers an area of 216.79 km (83.70 sq mi). Apart from Guwahati Municipal Corporation and Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation All other urban centres are managed under Municipal Boards.

A list of 9 oldest, classified and prominent, and constantly inhabited, recognised urban centres based on the earliest years of formation of the civic bodies, before the Indian independence of 1947 is tabulated below:

Oldest recognised urban centres of Assam
Urban Centres Civic Body Year Airport Railway Station Railway Junction Road Networks Category Notes
Guwahati Guwahati Town Committee 1853 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – III More Guwahati, the first township of Assam.
Guwahati Municipal Board 1873 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – II
Guwahati Municipal Corporation 1974 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – I More Establishment of Guwahati Municipal Corporation.
Dibrugarh Dibrugarh Municipal Board & Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation 1873 & 2024 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Dibrugarh, the second township of Assam.
Goalpara Goalpara Municipal Board 1875 No Yes No Yes Tier – II More Formation of Goalpara Municipality, 1875.
Dhubri Dhubri Municipal Board 1883 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Formation of Dhubri Municipality, 1883.
Nagaon Nagaon Municipal Board 1893 No Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Formation of Nagaon Municipality, 1893.
Tezpur Tezpur Municipal Board 1894 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Formation of Tezpur Municipality, 1894.
Jorhat Jorhat Municipal Board 1909 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Formation of Jorhat Municipality, 1909.
Golaghat Golaghat Municipal Board 1920 No Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Formation of Golaghat Municipality, 1920.
Silchar Silchar Municipal Board 1922 Yes Yes Yes Yes Tier – II More Formation of Silchar Municipality, 1922.
†Tier – I: a big city with an urban conglomeration (in the true sense) administered by a Municipal corporation. Tier – II: a medium–sized city for an urban agglomeration administered by a Municipal Board.
Tier – III: a small town, larger than a township with a sizeable human settlement.
↑Upgraded to the next highest form of civic body.
   Jointly shared with the other urban centre. ^1 and ^2 Shared with Guwahati. ^3 Shared with Tezpur. ^4 Shared with Jorhat.

Autonomous Council

The state has three autonomous councils under the sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution.

The state has further statutory autonomous councils constituted under State Act-

In March 2024, the Assam cabinet had given green signal for 'Kiran Sheikh' development council for the 'Kiran Sheikh' community in Barak Valley.

Social issues

Inter-state dispute

According to Assam Government, Assam has border dispute with four states namely Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh.

Assam-Mizoram dispute

Mizoram used to be a district of Assam as Lushai hills before being carved out as a separate union territory and later, becoming another state in 1987. Because of the history, the district's borders did not really matter for locals for a long time. Mizoram shares a border with the districts Cachar, Hailakandi and Karimganj which comes under Barak valley region of Assam. Over time, the two states started having different perceptions about where the demarcation should be. While Mizoram wants it to be along an Inner Line Permit notified in 1875 to protect tribals from outside influence, which Mizos feel is part of their historical homeland, Assam wants it to be demarcated according to district boundaries drawn up much later.

Assam-Meghalaya dispute

Meghalaya has identified close to a dozen areas on which it has a dispute with Assam about the state's borders. The chief ministers of the two states, Himanta Biswa Sarma and Megahalya's Conrad Sangma, recently held the first-ever meeting on inter-state border dispute. Both the states have agreed to individually assess the claims for all 12 areas flagged by Meghalaya in the past. A second round of discussion between the two state CMs will be held next month of August. On the question of the role the Union Government is playing in redressing the inter-State border dispute in the country, minister of state for home affairs Nityanand Rai said, "The approach of the Central Government has consistently been that inter-state disputes can be resolved only with the cooperation of the State Governments concerned and that the Central Government acts only as a facilitator for amicable settlement of the dispute in the spirit of mutual understanding."

Assam-Nagaland dispute

The border dispute between the two states has been going on since the formation of Nagaland in 1963. The two states lay claim to Merapani, a small village next to the plains of Assam's Golaghat district. There have been reports of violent clashes in the region since the 1960s.

Assam-Arunachal Pradesh dispute

Assam shares an 804.10 km inter-state boundary with Arunachal Pradesh. The state of Arunachal Pradesh, created in 1987, claims some land that traditionally belonged to its residents has been given to Assam. A tripartite committee had recommended that certain territories be transferred from Assam to Arunachal. The two states have since been battling it out in the Supreme court of India over the issue. Some incidents of local violence have been reported from the borders.

Separate statehood demand within Assam

Ahomland

Proposed Ahomland Map

Upper Assam's various Tai-Ahom organisations like "Ahom Tai Mangoliya Rajya Parishad" (ATMRP), has been demanding a separate Ahomland state since 1967, comprising erstwhile Un-divided Sivasagar and Lakhimpur districts (today's Upper Assam and North Assam divisions) respectively. On 2023, "TAI Ahom Yuba Parishad, Assam" (TAYPA) have organised a protest at Chachal and have demanded separate Ahomland state.

Barak state

Main article: Barak state movement
Barak Valley

The Barak Valley of Assam comprising the present districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi is contiguous to Sylhet (Bengal plains), where the Bengalis, according to historian J.B. Bhattacharjee, had settled well before the colonial period, influencing the culture of Dimasa Kacaharis. Bhattacharjee describes that the Dimasa kings spoke Bengali, the inscriptions and coins were written in Bengali script and the official language of the court was also Bengali. Migrations to Cachar increased after the British annexation of the region. The native Bengali people of Southern Assam demanded separate state for themselves within the Bengali majority areas of Assam particularly Bengali majority Barak valley comprising three districts: Cachar, Hailakandi, Karimganj along with Dima Hasao and parts of Hojai was also demanded to meet the criteria for creating a separate state for themselves by carving out from Assam's Assamese majority Brahmaputra Valley post NRC. Silchar is the proposed capital of Barak state. Barak valley is the most neglected part of Assam in terms of its infrastructure development, tourism sector, educational institutions, hospitals, IT industries, G.D.P, H.D.I etc. which is still lagging behind in comparison to the Assam's mainland Brahmaputra valley which have access to all of those facilities mentioned above. In fact, the Assam's Southern part have an overall indigenous Bengali majority population, particularly Hojai have overall (54%) Bengali-speaking population, Barak Valley region have an overwhelming Bengali majority of about 80.3%, while Dima Hasao have approximately 30.2% significant Bengali plurality on certain pockets specially in the urban areas of the district.

Bodoland

Main article: Bodoland
Bodoland district map

The agitation for the creation of a separate Bodoland state resulted in an agreement between the Indian Government, the Assam state government and the Bodo Liberation Tigers Force. According to the agreement made on 10 February 2003, the Bodoland Territorial Council, an entity subordinate to the government of Assam, was created to govern four districts covering 3082 Bodo Kachari-majority villages in Assam. Elections to the council were held on 13 May 2003, and Hagrama Mohilary was sworn in as the chief of the 46-member council on 4 June. Demographic wise, the Indigenous Bodo tribe constitutes half of the region's population, along with the region have also significant large number of other ethnic minorities which includes: Assamese, Koch Rajbangshi, Garo, Rabha tribe, Adivasis, Nepalis, Tea tribes, Bengalis, Biharis, Marwaris and Muslims.

Dimaraji

Main article: Dimaraji
Map of Dimaraji state

The Dimasa people of northeast India have been demanding a separate state called Dimaraji or "Dimaland" for several decades. It would comprise the Dimasa-Kachari inhabited areas, namely Dima Hasao district, Cachar district, parts of Barak Valley, Nagaon district, Hojai district and Karbi Anglong district in Assam together with part of Dimapur district in Nagaland.

Karbiland

See also: Karbi Anglong

Karbi Anglong is one of the 35 districts of Assam. Karbi Anglong was previously known as Mikir Hills. It was part of the Excluded Areas and Partially Excluded Areas (the present North East India) in British India. The British Indian government had never included this area under their government's jurisdiction. Thereby, no government development work or activity were done, nor any tax levied from the hills including Karbi Anglong. The first memorandum for a Karbi homeland was presented to Governor Reid on 28 October 1940 by Semsonsing Ingti and Khorsing Terang at Mohongdijua. The Karbi leaders were then, a part of the All Party Hill Leaders' Conference (APHLC) which was formed on 6 July 1960. The movement again gained momentum when the Karbi Anglong District Council passed a resolution demanding a Separate State in 1981. Then again from 1986 through the leadership of Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC), demanded Autonomous statehood of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao under Article 244(A). In 2002, the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council passed another resolution to press for the demand of statehood. Several other memoranda were submitted at different times by several organisations. The demand for a separate state turned violent on 31 July 2013 when student demonstrators set government buildings on fire. Following the incident, the elected leaders of Karbi Anglong jointly submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India demanding a separate State. Demographic wise, more than half of the Karbi Anglong population is made up of Indigenous Karbi tribe with significant migrants from other parts of India.

Migration from Bangladesh

Assam has been a major site of migration since the Partition of the subcontinent, with the first wave being composed largely of Bengali Hindu refugees arriving during and shortly after the establishment of India and Pakistan (current day Bangladesh was originally part of Pakistan, known as East Pakistan) in 1947–1951. Between the period of first patches (1946–1951), around 274,455 Bengali Hindu refugees have arrived from what is now called Bangladesh (former East Pakistan) in various locations of Assam as permanent settlers and again in second patches between (1952–1958) of the same decade, around 212,545 Bengali Hindus from Bangladesh took shelter in various parts of the state permanently. After the 1964 East Pakistan riots many Bengali Hindus have poured into Assam as refugees and the number of Hindu migrants in the state rose to 1,068,455 in 1968 (sharply after 4 years of the riot). The fourth patches numbering around 347,555 have just arrived after Bangladesh liberation war of 1971 as refugees and most of them being Bengali speaking Hindus have decided to stay back in Assam permanently afterwards. Though the governments of India and Bangladesh made agreements for the repatriation of certain groups of refugees after the second and third waves, a large presence of refugees and other migrants and their descendants remained in the state. Nevertheless, still people of Bangladesh have been immigrating to Assam on regular basis. As per reports, about 635 of Bangladeshi people mostly Hindus, use to immigrate to Assam daily.

Besides migration caused by displacement, there is also a large and continual unregulated movement between Assam and neighbouring regions of Bangladesh with an exceptionally porous border. The situation is called a risk to Assam's as well as India's security. The continual illegal entry of people into Assam, mostly from Bangladesh, has caused economic upheaval and social and political unrest. During the Assam Movement (1979–1985), the All Assam Students Union (AASU) and others demanded that government stop the influx of immigrants and deport those who had already settled. During this period, 855 people (the AASU says 860) died in various conflicts with migrants and police. The 1983 Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act, applied only to Assam, decreed that any person who entered the Assam after Bangladesh declared independence from Pakistan in 1971 and without authorisation or travel documents is to be considered a foreigner, with the decision on foreigner status to be carried out by designated tribunals. In 1985, the Indian Government and leaders of the agitation signed the Assam accord to settle the conflict.

The 1991 census made the changing demographics of border districts more visible. Since 2010, the Indian Government has undertaken the updating of the National Register of Citizens for Assam, and in 2018 the 32.2 million residents of Assam were subject to a review of their citizenship. In August 2019, India released the names of the 2 million residents of Assam that had been determined to be non-citizens and whose names had therefore been struck off the Register of Citizens, depriving them of rights and making them subject to action, and potentially leaving some of them stateless, and the government has begun deporting non-citizens, while detaining 1,000 others that same year.

In January 2019, the Assam's peasant organisation Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) claimed that there are around 20 lakh Hindu Bangladeshis in Assam who would become Indian citizens if the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is passed. BJP, however claimed that only eight lakh Hindu Bangladeshis will get citizenship. According to various sources, the total number of illegal Hindu Bangladeshis is hard to ascertain. According to the census data, the number of Hindu immigrants have been largely exaggerated.

In February 2020, the Assam Minority Development Board announced plans to segregate illegal Bangladeshi Muslim immigrants from the indigenous Muslims of the state, though some have expressed problems in identifying an indigenous Muslim person. According to the board, there are 1.4 crore Muslims in the state, of which 1 crore are of Bangladeshi origin. A report reveals that out of total 33 districts in Assam, Bangladeshis dominate almost 15 districts of Assam.

Floods

Main article: Brahmaputra floods

In the rainy season every year, the Brahmaputra and other rivers overflow their banks and flood adjacent land. Flood waters wash away property including houses and livestock. Damage to crops and fields harms the agricultural sector. Bridges, railway tracks, and roads are also damaged, harming transportation and communication, and in some years requiring food to be air-dropped to isolated towns. Some deaths are attributed to the floods.

Unemployment

Unemployment is a chronic problem in Assam. It is variously blamed on poor infrastructure, limited connectivity, and government policy; on a "poor work culture"; on failure to advertise vacancies; and on government hiring candidates from outside Assam.

In 2020 a series of violent lynchings occurred in the region.

Education

Main article: Education in Assam See also: List of colleges affiliated to Gauhati University See also: List of colleges affiliated to Assam University See also: List of educational institutions in Assam

Assam schools are run by the Indian government, government of Assam or by private organisations. Medium of instruction is mainly in Assamese, English or Bengali. Most of the schools follow the state's examination board which is called the Secondary Education Board of Assam. All schools under Government of Assam are assessed by Gunoutsav Assam .Almost all private schools follow the Central Board for Secondary Education (CBSE), Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) and Indian School Certificate (ISC) syllabuses.

Assamese language is the main medium in educational institutions but Bengali language is also taught as a major Indian language. In Guwahati and Digboi, many Jr. basic schools and Jr. high schools are Nepali linguistic and all the teachers are Nepali. Nepali is included by Assam State Secondary Board, Assam Higher Secondary Education Council and Gauhati University in their HSLC, higher secondary and graduation level respectively. In some junior basic and higher secondary schools and colleges, Nepali teachers and lecturers are appointed.

The capital, Dispur, contains institutions of higher education for students of the north-eastern region. Cotton College, Guwahati, dates back to the 19th century. Assam has several institutions for tertiary education and research.

Universities, colleges and institutions include:

Universities

Medical colleges

Assam has 12 medical colleges at present with 4 more scheduled to be completed by 2026–27.

Engineering and technological colleges

Research institutes present in the state include National Research Centre on Pig, (ICAR) in Guwahati,

Economy

Main article: Economy of Assam
Per capita income of Assam since 1950

Assam's economy is based on agriculture and oil. Assam produces more than half of India's tea. The Assam-Arakan basin holds about a quarter of the country's oil reserves, and produces about 12% of its total petroleum. According to the recent estimates, Assam's per capita GDP is ₹6,157 at constant prices (1993–94) and ₹10,198 at current prices; almost 40% lower than that in India. According to the recent estimates, per capita income in Assam has reached ₹6756 (1993–94 constant prices) in 2004–05, which is still much lower than India's.

A paddy field in Assam
A tea garden in Assam: tea is grown at elevations near sea level, giving it a malty sweetness and an earthy flavor, as opposed to the more floral aroma of highland (e.g. Darjeeling, Taiwanese) teas

Tea plantations

Main article: Assam tea Process of making tea in AssamThis 1850 engraving shows the different stages in the process of making tea in Assam

Macro-economy

The economy of Assam today represents a unique juxtaposition of backwardness amidst plenty. Despite its rich natural resources, and supplying of up to 25% of India's petroleum needs, Assam's growth rate has not kept pace with that of India; the difference has increased rapidly since the 1970s. The Indian economy grew at 6% per annum over the period of 1981 to 2000; the growth rate of Assam was only 3.3%. In the Sixth Plan period, Assam experienced a negative growth rate of 3.78% when India's was positive at 6%. In the post-liberalised era (after 1991), the difference widened further.

According to recent analysis, Assam's economy is showing signs of improvement. In 2001–02, the economy grew (at 1993–94 constant prices) at 4.5%, falling to 3.4% in the next financial year. During 2003–04 and 2004–05, the economy grew (at 1993–94 constant prices) at 5.5% and 5.3% respectively. The advanced estimates placed the growth rate for 2005–06 at above 6%. Assam's GDP in 2004 is estimated at $13 billion in current prices. Sectoral analysis again exhibits a dismal picture. The average annual growth rate of agriculture, which was 2.6% per annum over the 1980s, has fallen to 1.6% in the 1990s. The manufacturing sector showed some improvement in the 1990s with a growth rate of 3.4% per annum than 2.4% in the 1980s. For the past five decades, the tertiary sector has registered the highest growth rates of the other sectors, which even has slowed down in the 1990s than in the 1980s.

Employment

Unemployment is one of the major problems in Assam. This problem can be attributed to overpopulation and a faulty education system. Every year, large numbers of students obtain higher academic degrees but because of non-availability of proportional vacancies, most of these students remain unemployed. A number of employers hire over-qualified or efficient, but under-certified, candidates, or candidates with narrowly defined qualifications. The problem is exacerbated by the growth in the number of technical institutes in Assam which increases the unemployed community of the State. The reluctance on the part of the departments concerned to advertise vacancies in vernacular language has also made matters worse for local unemployed youths particularly for the job-seekers of Grade C and D vacancies.

Reduction of the unemployed has been threatened by illegal immigration from Bangladesh. This has increased the workforce without a commensurate increase in jobs. Immigrants compete with local workers for jobs at lower wages, particularly in construction, domestics, Rickshaw-pullers, and vegetable sellers. The government has been identifying (via NRC) and deporting illegal immigrants. Continued immigration is exceeding deportation.

Agriculture

Assamese women busy planting paddy seedlings in their agricultural field in Pahukata village in the Nagaon district of Assam

In Assam among all the productive sectors, agriculture makes the highest contribution to its domestic sectors, accounting for more than a third of Assam's income and employs 69% of workforce. Assam's biggest contribution to the world is Assam tea. It has its own variety, Camellia sinensis var. assamica. The state produces rice, rapeseed, mustard seed, jute, potato, sweet potato, banana, papaya, areca nut, sugarcane and turmeric.

Assam's agriculture is yet to experience modernisation in a real sense. With implications for food security, per capita food grain production has declined in the past five decades. Productivity has increased marginally, but is still low compared to highly productive regions. For instance, the yield of rice (a staple food of Assam) was just 1531 kg per hectare against India's 1927 kg per hectare in 2000–01 (which itself is much lower than Egypt's 9283, US's 7279, South Korea's 6838, Japan's 6635 and China's 6131 kg per hectare in 2001). On the other hand, after having strong domestic demand, and with 1.5 million hectares of inland water bodies, numerous rivers and 165 varieties of fishes, fishing is still in its traditional form and production is not self-sufficient.

Floods in Assam greatly affect the farmers and the families dependent on agriculture because of large-scale damage of agricultural fields and crops by flood water. Every year, flooding from the Brahmaputra and other rivers deluges places in Assam. The water levels of the rivers rise because of rainfall resulting in the rivers overflowing their banks and engulfing nearby areas. Apart from houses and livestock being washed away by flood water, bridges, railway tracks and roads are also damaged by the calamity, which causes communication breakdown in many places. Fatalities are also caused by the natural disaster in many places of the state.

See also: 2016 Assam floods

Infrastructure

On 30 August 2023, Nilachal Flyover was inaugurated. The flyover is Assam's longest flyover, spanning 2.63 kilometres and connecting Maligaon Chariali to Kamakhya Gate in Guwahati.

Industry

Handlooms and handicrafts are traditional industries that continue to survive, especially among rural women, in the state.

Assam's proximity to some neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, benefits its trade. The major Border checkpoints through which border trade flows to Bangladesh from Assam are : Sutarkandi (Karimganj), Dhubri, Mankachar (Dhubri) and Golokanj. To facilitate border trade with Bangladesh, Border Trade Centres have been developed at Sutarkandi and Mankachar. It has been proposed in the 11th five-year plan to set up two more Border Trade Center, one at Ledo connecting China and other at Darrang connecting Bhutan. There are several Land Custom Stations (LCS) in the state bordering Bangladesh and Bhutan to facilitate border trade.

The government of India has identified some thrust areas for industrial development of Assam:

  • Petroleum and natural gas-based industries
  • Industries based on locally available minerals
  • Processing of plantation crops
  • Food processing industries
  • Agri-Horticulture products
  • Herbal products
  • Biotech products
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Chemical and plastic-based industries
  • Export oriented industries
  • Electronic and IT base industries including services sector
  • Paper making industries
  • Textiles and sericulture
  • Engineering industries
  • Cane and bamboo-based industries
  • Other handicrafts industry

Although, the region in the eastern periphery of India is landlocked and is linked to the mainland by the narrow Siliguri Corridor (or the Chicken's Neck) improved transport infrastructure in all the three modes – rail, road and air – and developing urban infrastructure in the cities and towns of Assam are giving a boost to the entire industrial scene. The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati, with international flights to Bangkok and Singapore offered by Druk Air of Bhutan, was the 12th busiest airport of India in 2012. The cities of Guwahati in the west and Dibrugarh in the east with good rail, road and air connectivity are the two important nerve centres of Assam, to be selected by Asian Development Bank for providing $200 million for improvement of urban infrastructure.

Assam is a producer of crude oil and it accounts for about 15% of India's crude output, exploited by the Assam Oil Company Ltd., and natural gas in India and is the second place in the world (after Titusville in the United States) where petroleum was discovered. Asia's first successful mechanically drilled oil well was drilled in Makum way back in 1867. Most of the oilfields are located in the Eastern Assam region. Assam has four oil refineries in Digboi (Asia's first and world's second refinery), Guwahati, Bongaigaon and Numaligarh and with a total capacity of 7 million metric tonnes (7.7 million short tons) per annum. Asia's first refinery was set up at Digboi and discoverer of Digboi oilfield was the Assam Railways & Trading Company Limited (AR&T Co. Ltd.), a registered company of London in 1881. One of the biggest public sector oil company of the country Oil India Ltd. has its plant and headquarters at Duliajan.

There are several other industries, including a chemical fertiliser plant at Namrup, petrochemical industries in Namrup and Bongaigaon, paper mills at Jagiroad, Hindustan Paper Corporation Ltd. Township Area Panchgram and Jogighopa, sugar mills in Barua Bamun Gaon, Chargola, Kampur, cement plants in Bokajan and Badarpur, and a cosmetics plant of Hindustan Unilever (HUL) at Doom Dooma. Moreover, there are other industries such as jute mill, textile and yarn mills, Assam silk, and silk mills. Many of these industries are facing losses and closure due to lack of infrastructure and improper management practices.

Tourism

Main article: Tourism in Assam See also: Tourism in North East India

Wildlife, cultural, and historical destinations have attracted visitors.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Assam See also: Assamese cinema
Moran bihu dance in the traditional attire of the Moran people on the occasion of Bohag Bihu

Assamese Culture is described as a hybrid and syncretic in nature developed due to the assimilation of numerous ethnic groups and cultural practices of Austroasiatic, Tibeto-Burman, Indo-aryan and Tai inhabitants. Therefore, both local elements or the local elements in Sanskritised forms are distinctly found. The major milestones in the evolution of Assamese culture are:

Dakhinpat Satra of Majuli
  • Assimilation in the Kamarupa kingdom for almost 800 years (Varman dynasty for 300 years, Mlechchha dynasty for 250 years and the Pala dynasty for 200 years.
  • Establishment of the Chutia kingdom in the 12th century in eastern Assam and assimilation for next 400 years.
  • Establishment of the Ahom kingdom in the 13th century CE and assimilation for next 600 years.
  • Assimilation in the Koch kingdom (15th–16th century CE) of western Assam and Kachari kingdom (12th–18th century CE) of central and southern Assam.
  • Neo-Vaishanavite (Ekasarana Dharma) Movement led by Srimanta Shankardeva (Xongkordeu) made an enormous impact on the socio-cultural and religious sphere of Assam. This 15th century religio-cultural movement under the leadership of Srimanta Sankardeva (Xonkordeu) and his disciples have provided another dimension to Assamese culture. A renewed Hinduisation in local forms took place, which was initially greatly supported by the Koch and later by the Ahom kingdoms. The resultant social institutions such as namghar and sattra (the Vaishnav Monasteries) have become an integral part of the Assamese way of life. The movement contributed greatly towards language, literature, and performing and fine arts.. It was also an egalitarian reform movement as it broke away with the old caste barriers of Brahmanical Hinduism and converted into its fold people of all castes, ethnicity and religions (including Islam).
Presenting Gayan Bayan in Majuli, the Neo-Vaishnavite cultural heritage of Assam

The modern culture has been influenced by events in the British and the post-British era. Assamese language was standardised by American Baptist Missionaries such as Nathan Brown, Dr. Miles Bronson and local pundits such as Hemchandra Barua with the dialect spoken in undivided Sibsagar district (the centre of the Ahom kingdom) forming the standardised dialect.

Increasing efforts of standardisation in the 20th century alienated the localised forms present in different areas and with the less-assimilated ethno-cultural groups (many source-cultures). However, Assamese culture in its hybrid form and nature is one of the richest, still developing and in true sense is a 'cultural system' with sub-systems. Many source-cultures of the Assamese cultural-system are still surviving either as sub-systems or as sister entities, e.g. the; Bodo or Karbi or Mishing. It is important to keep the broader system closer to its roots and at the same time focus on development of the sub-systems.

Some of the common and unique cultural traits in the region are peoples' respect towards areca-nut and betel leaves, symbolic (gamosa, arnai, etc.), traditional silk garments (e.g. mekhela chador, traditional dress of Assamese women) and towards forefathers and elderly. Moreover, great hospitality and bamboo culture are common.

Symbols

See also: List of Assam state symbols and Jaapi
A Mising woman using a handloom to weave a traditional Mekhela chador dress.
A decorative Assamese Jaapi laid over a Gamosa

Symbolism is an ancient cultural practice in Assam and is still a very important part of the Assamese way of life. Various elements are used to represent beliefs, feelings, pride, identity, etc.

Tamulpan (areca nut and betel leaves), Xorai and Gamosa are three important symbolic elements in Assamese culture. Tamulpan or guapan (gua from kwa) are considered along with the Gamosa (a typical woven cotton or silk cloth with embroidery) as the offers of devotion, respect and friendship. The Tamulpan-tradition is an ancient one and is being followed since time-immemorial with roots in the aboriginal Austric culture. Xorai is a traditionally manufactured bell-metal article of great respect and is used as a container-medium while performing respectful offers. Moreover, symbolically many ethno-cultural groups use specific clothes to portray respect and pride.

Singhasan of manikut in a Namghar

There were many other symbolic elements and designs, but are now only found in literature, art, sculpture, architecture, etc. or in use today for only religious purposes. The typical designs of Assamese-lion, dragon (ngi-ngao-kham), and flying-lion (Naam-singho) are used for symbolising various purposes and occasions. The archaeological sites such as the Madan Kamdev (c. 9th–10th centuries CE) exhibits mass-scale use of lions, dragon-lions and many other figures of demons to show case power and prosperity.

Jhumura

The Vaishnavite monasteries (Sattras) and many other architectural sites of the late medieval period display the use of lions and dragons for symbolic effects.

Festivals and traditions

Main article: List of festivals in Assam See also: Domahi, Bohag Bihu, Magh Bihu, and Bwisagu
A Bihu dancer blowing a pepa (horn)
Ornate Jaapis from Dhemaji
The burning of Meji (an offering to the god of fire) during the festival of Maghor bihu

There are diversified important traditional festivals in Assam. Bihu is the most important festival of Assam and is celebrated all over the state.The Assamese new year (Ek Bohag) is celebrated in April of the Gregorian calendar.

Husori in Bihu

Bihu is described as the soul and life of Assam. It is a series of three prominent festivals each associated with a certain stage during the cultivation of paddy. Primarily a secular festival celebrated to mark the seasons and the significant points of a cultivator's life over yearly cycle. Three Bihus, rongali (in the month of bohag), celebrated with the coming of spring and the beginning of the sowing season; kongali or kati, the barren bihu when the fields are lush but the barns are empty and bhogali (in the month of magh), the thanksgiving when the crops have been harvested and the granaries are full. Bihu songs and Bihu dance are associated with rongali and bhogali bihu. The day before the each bihu is known as the day of Uruka. The first day of 'Rongali bihu' is called 'Goru bihu' (the bihu of the cows), when the cows are taken to the nearby rivers or ponds to be bathed with special care. In recent times the form and nature of celebration has changed with the growth of urban centres.

Traditional Bwisagu dance

Bwisagu is one of the most popular seasonal festivals of the Bodos. Baisagu is a Boro word which originated from the word "Baisa" which means year or age, and "Agu" meaning starting or beginning. Bwisagu marks the beginning of the new year. It is celebrated at the beginning of the first month of the Boro year, around mid-April in the Gregorian Calendar. It has remarkable similarities to the festival of Rongali Bihu, also celebrated at the same time in Assam. The worship of Bathow is done on the second day of the festival.

Mising girls dancing during Ali Ai Ligang (Spring Festival) to the tunes of Oi:Nitom

Ali-Aye-Ligang or Ali-Ai-Ligang is a spring festivital associated with agriculture celebrated by the indigenous Mising of Assam and other Northeast Indian states. It marks the beginning of the Ahu paddy cultivation in the farms. The term "Ali" denotes legumes, "Aye" means seed and "Ligang" is 'to sow'. The festival is celebrated on a Wednesday of the month of Fagun of the Assamese calendar and in the month of February in English calendar. The gumrag dance is associated with this festival.

Dimasa women performing Baidima, the traditional dance of the Dimasa people.

Bushu Dima or simply Bushu is a major harvest festival of the Dimasa people. This festival is celebrated during the end of January. Officially 27 January has been declared as the day of Bushu Dima festival. The Dimasa people celebrate by playing musical instruments- khram (a type of drum), muri (a kind of huge long flute). The people dance to the different tunes of "murithai" and each dance has its own unique name, the most prominent being the "Baidima" There are three types of Bushu celebrated by the Dimasas- Jidap, Surem and Hangsou.

Me-Dam-Me-Phi is the day of the veneration of the dead ancestors for the Tai-Ahom community. It bears striking similarity in the concept of ancestor worship that the Tai-Ahoms share with other peoples originating from the Tai stock. The word ‘Me’ means offerings, ‘Dam’ means ancestors and ‘Phi’ means gods. According to the Buranjis, Lengdon (God of thunder), the king of Mong Phi (The heavenly kingdom), sent two of his grandsons Khunlung and Khunlai to Mong Ri Mong Ram (present day Xishuangbanna, China) and at that moment Ye-Cheng-Pha, the God of knowledge, advised them to perform Umpha, Phuralong, Mae Dam Mae Phi and Rik-khwan rituals in different months of the year on different occasions to pay respect to the Phi-Dam (Ancestral Spirit) and Khwan elements. Since that day till now Mae Dam Mae Phi has been observed by the Tai-Ahoms. It is celebrated on 31 January every year according to the Gregorian calendar.

Rongker also called Dehal is an annual winter festival of merriment celebrated by the Karbi people of Assam. It is observed in order to appease the local deities associated with the welfare of the village and the harvest of crops and also to get rid of all evil spirits. Although the festival does have a specific time it is usually observed at the beginning of the Karbi New year (Thang thang) which falls on February of the Gregorian calendar.

Doul Mohutsav (Holi) in Barpeta Satra

Doul Mohutsav, also called Fakuwa or Doul Utsav is a festival of colours and happiness popular in Lower Assam and especially in Barpeta. It is synonymous with the festival of Holi celebrated in Northern India. Holigeets of Barpeta are sung which is incredibly popular and enthralls the heart of every Assamese. These holigeets are the exquisite compositions in praise of Lord Krishna. People from different parts of the state visit Barpeta Satra to experience this colourful and joyful festival.

Chavang Kut is a post harvesting festival of the Kuki people. The festival is celebrated on the first day of November every year. Hence, this particular day has been officially declared as a Restricted Holiday by the Assam government. In the past, the celebration was primarily important in the religio-cultural sense. The rhythmic movements of the dances in the festival were inspired by animals, agricultural techniques and showed their relationship with ecology. Today, the celebration witnesses the shifting of stages and is revamped to suit new contexts and interpretations. The traditional dances which form the core of the festival is now performed in out-of-village settings and are staged in a secular public sphere. In Assam, the Kukis mainly reside in the two autonomous districts of Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong.

Beshoma is a festival of Deshi people (one of the indigenous Muslim groups of Assam). It is a celebration of sowing crop. The Beshoma starts on the last day of Chaitra and goes on until the sixth of Baisakh. With varying locations it is also called Bishma or Chait-Boishne.

Moreover, there are other important traditional festivals being celebrated every year on different occasions at different places. Many of these are celebrated by different ethno-cultural groups (sub and sister cultures). Some of these are:

Durga puja in Guwahati.

Christmas is observed with great merriment by Christians of various denominations, including Catholics, Protestants and Baptists, throughout Assam. Durga Puja is widely celebrated across the state. Muslims celebrate two Eids (Eid ul-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) with much eagerness all over Assam.

Other few yearly celebrations are Brahmaputra Beach Festival, Guwahati, Kaziranga Elephant Festival, Kaziranga and Dehing Patkai Festival, Lekhapani, Karbi Youth Festival of Diphu and International Jatinga Festival, Jatinga can not be forgotten. Few yearly Mela's like Jonbeel Mela, started in the 15th century by the Ahom Kings, Ambubachi Mela, Guwahati etc.

Asom Divas or Sukapha Divas (2 December) is celebrated to commemorate the advent of the first king of the Ahom kingdom in Assam after his journey over the Patkai Hills.

Lachit Divas (24 November) is celebrated on the birth anniversary of the great Ahom general Lachit Borphukan. Sarbananda Sonowal, the chief minister of Assam took part in the Lachit Divas celebration at the statue of Lachit Borphukan at Brahmaputra riverfront on 24 November 2017. He said, the first countrywide celebration of 'Lachit Divas' would take place in New Delhi followed by state capitals such as Hyderabad, Bangalore and Kolkata in a phased manner.

Music, dance, and drama

See also: Music of Assam, Folk dances of Assam, and Mobile theatre in Assam
Actors of Abinaswar Gosthi performs the play "Surjya Mandirot Surjyasta" directed by Dipok Borah

Performing arts include: Ankia Naat (Onkeeya Naat), a traditional Vaishnav dance-drama (Bhaona) popular since the 15th century CE. It makes use of large masks of gods, goddesses, demons and animals and in between the plays a Sutradhar (Xutrodhar) continues to narrate the story.

Besides Bihu dance and Husori performed during the Bohag Bihu, dance forms of tribal minorities such as; Kushan nritra of Rajbongshi's, Bagurumba and Bordoicikhla dance of Bodos, Mishing Bihu, Banjar Kekan performed during Chomangkan by Karbis, Jhumair of Tea-garden community are some of the major folk dances. Sattriya (Sotriya) dance related to Vaishnav tradition is a classical form of dance. Moreover, there are several other age-old dance-forms such as Barpeta's Bhortal Nritya, Deodhani Nritya, Ojapali, Beula Dance, Ka Shad Inglong Kardom, Nimso Kerung, etc. The tradition of modern moving theatres is typical of Assam with immense popularity of many Mobile theatre groups such as Kohinoor, Brindabon, etc.

The indigenous folk music has influenced the growth of a modern idiom, that finds expression in the music of artists like Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, Bishnuprasad Rabha, Parvati Prasad Baruwa, Bhupen Hazarika, Pratima Barua Pandey, Anima Choudhury, Luit Konwar Rudra Baruah, Jayanta Hazarika, Khagen Mahanta, Dipali Barthakur, among many others. Among the new generation, Zubeen Garg, Angaraag Mahanta and Joi Barua. There is an award given in the honour of Bishnu Prasad Rabha for achievements in the cultural/music world of Assam by the state government.

Cuisine

Main article: Assamese cuisine
Assamese Thali
An ethnic preparation of Ghost chili chicken curry of Assam

Typically, an Assamese meal consists of many things such as bhat (rice) with dayl/ daly (lentils), masor jool (fish stew), mangxô (meat stew) and stir fried greens or herbs and vegetables.

Bhut jolokia (ghost pepper) is used in preparation of traditional meat stews

The two main characteristics of a traditional meal in Assam are khar (an Alkali, named after its main ingredient) and tenga (Preparations bearing a characteristically rich and tangy flavour). Khorika is the smoked or fire grilled meat eaten with meals. Pitika (mash) is another delicacy of Assam. It includes alu pitika (mashed potatoes), bilahi (tomatoes), bengena (brinjals) or even masor pitika (fish). Commonly consumed varieties of meat include Mutton, fowl, duck/goose, fish, pigeon, pork and beef (among Muslim and Christian indigenous Assamese ethnic groups). Grasshoppers, locusts, silkworms, snails, eels, bat wild fowl, squab and other birds, venison are also eaten, albeit in moderation.

A Mising girl roasting fish and pork in bamboo tubes (bahor sungha) in an ethnic festival

Khorisa (fermented bamboo shoots) are used at times to flavour curries while they can also be preserved and made into pickles. Koldil (banana flower) and squash are also used in popular culinary preparations.

Rice beer is consumed on festivals by the various indigenous ethnic communities of Assam

A variety of different rice cultivars are grown and consumed in different ways, viz., roasted, ground, boiled or just soaked.

Fish curries made of free range wild fish as well as Bôralí, rôu, illish, or sitôl are the most popular.

Another favourite combination is luchi (fried flatbread), a curry which can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian.

Many indigenous Assamese communities households still continue to brew their traditional alcoholic beverages; examples include: Laupani, Xaaj, Paniyo, Jou, Joumai, Hor, Apong, Sujen etc. Such beverages are served during traditional festivities. Declining them is considered socially offensive.

Assamese food is generally served in traditional bell metal dishes and platters like Kanhi, Maihang and so on.

  • Fish cooked in banana leaves Fish cooked in banana leaves
  • Narikol Pitha is a very popular dish especially during Bihu Narikol Pitha is a very popular dish especially during Bihu
Lakshminath Bezbaroa, one of the foremost figures of Assamese literature

Literature

Main article: Assamese literature
Imaginary portrait of Srimanta Sankardeva by Bishnu Prasad Rabha

Assamese literature dates back to the composition of Charyapada, and later on works like Saptakanda Ramayana by Madhava Kandali, which is the first translation of the Ramayana into an Indo-Aryan language, contributed to Assamese literature. Sankardeva's Borgeet, Ankia Naat, Bhaona and Satra tradition backed the 15th-16th century Assamese literature. Written during the Reign of Ahoms, the Buranjis are notable literary works which are prominently historical manuscripts. Most literary works are written in Assamese although other local language such as Bodo and Dimasa are also represented. In the 19th and 20th century, Assamese and other literature was modernised by authors including Lakshminath Bezbaroa, Birinchi Kumar Barua, Hem Barua, Dr. Mamoni Raisom Goswami, Bhabendra Nath Saikia, Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya, Hiren Bhattacharyya, Homen Borgohain, Bhabananda Deka, Rebati Mohan Dutta Choudhury, Mahim Bora, Lil Bahadur Chettri, Syed Abdul Malik, Surendranath Medhi, Hiren Gohain etc.

Fine arts

Main article: Painting of Assam

The archaic Mauryan Stupas discovered in and around Goalpara district are the earliest examples (c. 300 BCE to c. 100 CE) of ancient art and architectural works. The remains discovered in Daparvatiya (Doporboteeya) archaeological site with a beautiful doorframe in Tezpur are identified as the best examples of artwork in ancient Assam with influence of Sarnath School of Art of the late Gupta period.

Painting is an ancient tradition of Assam. Xuanzang (7th century CE) mentions that among the Kamarupa king Bhaskaravarma's gifts to Harshavardhana there were paintings and painted objects, some of which were on Assamese silk. Many of the manuscripts such as Hastividyarnava (A Treatise on Elephants), the Chitra Bhagawata and in the Gita Govinda from the Middle Ages bear excellent examples of traditional paintings.

Traditional crafts

Main articles: Traditional crafts of Assam and Bell and brass metal crafts of Assam See also: Assam silk

Assam has a rich tradition of crafts, Cane and bamboo craft, bell metal and brass craft, silk and cotton weaving, toy and mask making, pottery and terracotta work, wood craft, jewellery making, and musical instruments making have remained as major traditions.

Cane and bamboo craft provide the most commonly used utilities in daily life, ranging from household utilities, weaving accessories, fishing accessories, furniture, musical instruments, construction materials, etc. Utilities and symbolic articles such as Sorai and Bota made from bell metal and brass are found in every Assamese household. Hajo and Sarthebari (Sorthebaary) are the most important centres of traditional bell-metal and brass crafts. Assam is the home of several types of silks, the most prestigious are: Muga – the natural golden silk, Pat – a creamy-bright-silver coloured silk and Eri – a variety used for manufacturing warm clothes for winter. Apart from Sualkuchi (Xualkuchi), the centre for the traditional silk industry, in almost every parts of the Brahmaputra Valley, rural households produce silk and silk garments with excellent embroidery designs. Moreover, various ethno-cultural groups in Assam make different types of cotton garments with unique embroidery designs and wonderful colour combinations.

Moreover, Assam possesses unique crafts of toy and mask making mostly concentrated in the Vaishnav Monasteries, pottery and terracotta work in western Assam districts and wood craft, iron craft, jewellery, etc. in many places across the region.

  • A page of manuscript painting from Assam; The medieval painters used locally manufactured painting materials such as the colours of hangool and haital and papers manufactured from aloewood bark A page of manuscript painting from Assam; The medieval painters used locally manufactured painting materials such as the colours of hangool and haital and papers manufactured from aloewood bark
  • Bell metal made sorai and sophura are important parts of culture Bell metal made sorai and sophura are important parts of culture
  • Assam Kahor (Bell metal) Kahi Assam Kahor (Bell metal) Kahi
  • Brihat Ushaharan, an 18th-century manuscript illustration of Garhgoan school of painting Brihat Ushaharan, an 18th-century manuscript illustration of Garhgoan school of painting
  • Mayurpokhyi Khel-Nao (Pleasure boat) of medieval Assam, used by Badula Ata of Kamalabari Satra Mayurpokhyi Khel-Nao (Pleasure boat) of medieval Assam, used by Badula Ata of Kamalabari Satra
  • 18th century Mahisamardini bronze metal sculpture 18th century Mahisamardini bronze metal sculpture
  • A painting from the folio of Hastividyarnava A painting from the folio of Hastividyarnava
  • Mask art of Assam Mask art of Assam
  • Vrindavani Vastra was woven in the 16th century under the guidance of Mahapurush Shrimanta Shankardev. The large drape illustrates the childhood activities of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan. Vrindavani Vastra was woven in the 16th century under the guidance of Mahapurush Shrimanta Shankardev. The large drape illustrates the childhood activities of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan.

Media

Print media include Assamese dailies Amar Asom, Asomiya Khabar, Asomiya Pratidin, Dainik Agradoot, Dainik Janambhumi, Dainik Asam, Gana Adhikar, Janasadharan and Niyomiya Barta. Asom Bani, Sadin and Janambhumi are Assamese weekly newspapers. The English dailies of Assam include The Assam Tribune, The Sentinel, The Telegraph, The Times of India, The North East Times, Eastern Chronicle and The Hills Times. Thekar, in the Karbi language has the largest circulation of any daily from Karbi Anglong district. Bodosa has the highest circulation of any Bodo daily from BTR. Dainik Jugasankha is a Bengali daily with editions from Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Silchar and Kolkata. Dainik Samayik Prasanga, Dainik Prantojyoti, Dainik Janakantha and Nababarta Prasanga are other prominent Bengali dailies published in the Barak Valley towns of Karimganj and Silchar. Hindi dailies include Purvanchal Prahari, Pratah Khabar and Dainik Purvoday.

Broadcasting stations of All India Radio have been established in 22 cities across the state. Local news and music are the main priority for those stations. Assam has three public service broadcasting service stations of state-owned Doordarshan at Dibrugarh, Guwahati and Silchar. The Guwahati-based satellite news channels include Assam Talks, DY 365, News Live, News18 Assam North East, North East Live, Prag News and Pratidin Time.

Geographical indications

Boka Chaul

Boka Chaul was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) status tag from the Geographical Indications Registry, under the Union Government of India, on 30 July 2018 and is valid until 24 July 2026.

Lotus Progressive Centre (LPC) and Centre for Environment Education (CEE) from Guwahati, proposed the GI registration of Boka Chaul. After filing the application in July 2018, the rice was granted the GI tag in 2023 by the Geographical Indication Registry in Chennai, making the name "Boka Chaul" exclusive to the rice grown in the region. It thus became the second rice variety from Assam after Joha rice and the 7th type of goods from Assam to earn the GI tag.

The GI tag protects the rice from illegal selling and marketing, and gives it legal protection and a unique identity.

See also

Notes

  1. Barak Valley has three districts. In all the three districts, Meitei language (alias Manipuri language) serves as an official language, besides Bengali language.

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Sources

Further reading

  • Online books and material
  • Language and literature
    • Bara, Mahendra (1981), The Evolution of the Assamese Script, Jorhat, Assam: Asam Sahitya Sabha
    • Barpujari, H. K. (1983), Amerikan Michanerisakal aru Unabimsa Satikar Asam, Jorhat, Assam: Asam Sahitya Sabha
    • Barua, Birinchi Kumar (1965), History of Assamese Literature, Guwahati: East-West Centre Press
    • Barua, Hem (1965), Assamese Literature, New Delhi: National Book Trust
    • Brown, William Barclay (1895), An Outline Grammar of the Deori Chutiya Language Spoken in Upper Assam with an Introduction, Illustrative Sentences, and Short Vocabulary, Shillong: The Assam Secretariat Printing Office
    • Deka, Bhabananda (1961), Industrialisation of Assam, Guwahati: Gopal Das
    • Dhekial Phukan, Anandaram 1829–1859 (1977), Anandaram Dhekiyal Phukanar Racana Samgrah, Guwahati: Lawyer's Book Stall{{citation}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
    • Endle, Sidney (1884), Outline of the Kachari (Baro) Language as Spoken in District Darrang, Assam, Shillong: Assam Secretariat Press
    • Gogoi, Lila (1972), Sahitya-Samskriti-Buranji, Dibrugarh: New Book Stall
    • Gogoi, Lila (1986), The Buranjis, Historical Literature of Assam, New Delhi: Omsons Publications
    • Goswami, Praphulladatta (1954), Folk-Literature of Assam, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Assam
    • Gurdon, Philip Richard Thornhagh (1896), Some Assamese Proverbs, Shillong: The Assam Secretariat Printing Office, ISBN 1-104-30633-6
    • Kakati, Banikanta (1959), Aspects of Early Assamese Literature, Guwahati: Gauhati University
    • Kay, S. P. (1904), An English-Mikir Vocabulary, Shillong: The Assam Secretariat Printing Office
    • Medhi, Kaliram (1988), Assamese Grammar and Origin of the Assamese Language, Guwahati: Assam Publication Board
    • Miles, Bronson (1867), A Dictionary in Assamese and English, Sibsagar, Assam: American Baptist Mission Press
    • Morey, Stephen (2005), The Tai languages of Assam : a grammar and texts, Canberra: Pacific Linguistics, ISBN 0-85883-549-5
  • History
    • Antrobus, H. (1957), A History of the Assam Company, Edinburgh: Private Printing by T. and A. Constable
    • Barabaruwa, Hiteswara 1876–1939 (1981), Ahomar Din, Guwahati: Assam Publication Board{{citation}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
    • Barooah, Nirode K. (1970), David Scott in North-East India, 1802–1831, New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers
    • Barua, Harakanta 1813–1900 (1962), Asama Buranji, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Assam{{citation}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
    • Barpujari, H. K. (1963), Assam in the Days of the Company, 1826–1858, Guwahati: Lawyer's Book Stall
    • Barpujari, H. K. (1977), Political History of Assam. Department for the Preparation of Political History of Assam, Guwahati: Government of Assam
    • Barua, Kanak Lal, An Early History of Kamarupa, From the Earliest Time to the Sixteenth Century, Guwahati: Lawyers Book Stall
    • Barua, Kanak Lal, Studies in the Early History of Assam, Jorhat, Assam: Asam Sahitya Sabha
    • Baruah, Swarna Lata (1993), Last days of Ahom monarchy : a history of Assam from 1769 to 1826, New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1949), Anglo-Assamese Relations, 1771–1826, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Assam
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1947), Annals of the Delhi Badshahate, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Government of Assam
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1957), Atan Buragohain and His Times, Guwahati: Lawyer's Book Stall
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1962), Deodhai Asam Buranji, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1928), Early British Relations with Assam, Shillong: Assam Secretariat Press
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1947), Lachit Barphukan and His Times, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies, Government of Assam
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1964), Satasari Asama Buranji, Guwahati: Gauhati University
    • Bhuyan, Suryya Kumar (1975), Swargadew Rajeswarasimha, Guwahati: Assam Publication Board
    • Buchanan, Francis Hamilton 1762–1829 (1963), An Account of Assam, Guwahati: Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies{{citation}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
    • Duara Barbarua, Srinath (1933), Tungkhungia Buranji, Bombay: H. Milford, Oxford University Press
    • Gait, Edward Albert 1863–1950 (1926), A History of Assam, Calcutta: Thacker, Spink & Co.{{citation}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
    • Gogoi, Padmeswar (1968), The Tai and the Tai Kingdoms, Guwahati: Gauhati University
    • Guha, Amalendu (1983), The Ahom Political System, Calcutta: Centre for Studies in Social Sciences
    • Hunter, William Wilson 1840–1900 (1879), A Statistical Account of Assam, London: Trubner & Co.{{citation}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  • Tradition and Culture
    • Barkath, Sukumar (1976), Hastibidyarnnara Sarasamgraha (English & Assamese), 18th Century, Guwahati: Assam Publication Board
    • Barua, Birinchi Kumar (1969), A Cultural History of Assam, Guwahati: Lawyer's Book Stall
    • Barua, Birinchi Kumar (1960), Sankardeva, Guwahati: Assam Academy for Cultural Relations
    • Gandhiya, Jayakanta (1988), Huncari, Mukali Bihu, aru Bihunac, Dibrugarh{{citation}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
    • Goswami, Praphulladatta (1960), Ballads and Tales of Assam, Guwahati: Gauhati University
    • Goswami, Praphulladatta (1988), Bohag Bihu of Assam and Bihu Songs, Guwahati: Assam Publication Board
    • Mahanta, Pona (1985), Western Influence on Modern Assamese Drama, Delhi: Mittal Publications
    • Medhi, Kaliram (1978), Studies in the Vaisnava Literature and Culture of Assam, Jorhat, Assam: Asam Sahitya Sabha

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