Share
Our Reporter
Dimapur, Nov. 21 (EMN): Nagaland may be a small state with a total area of 16,579 sq.km and a population of 19,78,502 (census 2011) but it is known for its rich cultural heritage, an amalgamation of diverse traditions of over a dozen tribes.
Nagaland attained statehood on December 1, 1963, becoming India’s 16th state with Kohima as its capital. It has 12 districts -- Kohima, Phek, Kiphire, Mokokchung, Wokha, Longleng, Tuensang, Zunheboto, Peren, Mon, Dimapur and Noklak – and 1,318 recognised villages. The literacy rate of the state is 79.55% (82.75% male and 76.11% female).
By virtue of its geographical location and vast green cover, the state has rich biodiversity and home to scores of flora and fauna. It was also one of the reasons for inaccessibility for decades but this barrier has been broken today with drastic improvement in public transport system across the country.
Thousands of tourists visit the state every year to experience its picturesque landscape, rich nature and culture. But many people including those from the state may not be aware of several things about the state.
Here are 7 facts about Nagaland:
1) Mithun is the state animal of Nagaland. This bovine that weighs around 1000 kg and with an average body length of 8-10 feet is also known as the cattle of the mountains.
[Also read: Mithun farming to become bankable soon]
2) Rhododendron is the state flower of Nagaland. This species of woody plant blooms in late winters to early spring.
[Also read: Brothers plant 500 rhododendron trees]
3) Blyth’s tragopan is the state bird of Nagaland. This vulnerable species is sighted in Mount Japfü and Dzükou valley, Satoi range in Zunheboto district and Pfütsero in Phek district.
4) The highest peak in the state is Saramati Peak. Located near Thanamir village in Kiphire district of Nagaland, the peak stands at an altitude of 3,826 metre and a prominence of 2,885 metre.
[Also read: The great Saramati peak adventure]
5) “Unity” is the motto of Nagaland state. The design of Nagaland state emblem is a circular seal with a Mithun Bison standing on a green hilly landscape, and its motto “Unity” and “Government of Nagaland” inscribed.
[Also read: More than 1 lakh tourists visited Nagaland last year]
6) Longleng is the smallest district in the state. It has only 46 recognised villages and a population of 50,484 people.
[Also read: Amur falcons return to Longleng]
7) The Hornbill Festival is the most popular festival of Nagaland. Started in 2000, the festival is celebrated every year from December 1 to the 10th at Kisama Heritage Village in Kohima. It has become a huge tourist attraction over the years as it is the only event when visitors can have a glimpse of diverse and unique Naga culture at one venue.
[Also read: Hornbill Festival off to aural, visual spectacle]
