In Frames | Money, get away...

Exploring the Unique Tribal Traditions and Sustainable Economies in Assam’s Karbi Anglong District

Assam has a large number of tribes, each unique in its tradition, culture, and attire which looks exotic when viewed from the outside; it is but a way of life here. The landscape, the range of communities, and geographical and ecological diversity make these tribes different from communities in other parts of the country.

Tribal people living in the hills of Karbi Anglong district of Assam work hard to earn their livelihood, as well as the social needs.

The tribal people relies mostly on the barter system, and by providing services. Money as a store and measurement of value and medium of exchange is not used widely. The profit for profit’s sake model in economic dealings is generally absent. This was evident even during the pandemic years and it helped them enormously.

Cooperative and collective endeavour is a strongly developed feature of their economy especially in the post-harvest agricultural work. There is a mutual dependence among the people who assist their fellow villagers in preserving the grains for future consumption.