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Spotlight on Idu Mishmis
FOR CENTURIES, tribals inhabiting India's north-eastern States have played a big role in protecting the rich and diverse ecology of the region. Each tribe is a microcosm in itself. Among these are the Idu Mishmis who inhabit the border areas of the eastern Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh. And the Dibang Valley, which is the primary habitat of the Idu Mishmis, is rich in biodiversity.
To highlight this region's diversity in terms of habitat and species, a 42-minute film - "The Idus of Dibang'' -- has been made by Pramod and Neelima Mathur showcasing the amazing geological formations to the world.
There is an increasing global recognition that "this region should qualify as a world treasure because of its unusual ecology which is unparalleled in the world for the concentration, isolation and diversity of tribal cultures it contains.'' All this is featured in the film made by the duo. "This is a time and place where it is possible to chart a new path in economic development avoiding the socio-cultural devastation that have too often accompanied tribal people."
Most tribals have entered the world economy from a position of weakness, too often being articulated into larger societies through direct oppression -- whether economic exploitation or military conquest. However, the "Inner Line'' has largely protected Arunachal Pradesh from such inequalities. The legacy of relative freedom fosters self-confidence, ethnic pride and hope for the future. "The Idus of Dibang'' is a shining example of this legacy.
By Sandeep Joshi
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