Dima Hasao District

District Overview: Dima Hasao District

• • Location: Northeastern Assam, India.
  • Former Name: North Cachar Hills.
  • Nickname: Known as the “Switzerland of the Northeast” for its scenic beauty and cool climate.
  • Key Features: Famous for its hilly landscapes, rich biodiversity, and diverse tribal cultures.

History of Dima Hasao

Early History

• • Cachari Kingdom: Originally part of the Cachari Kingdom, inhabited by Dimasa Kacharis and other tribes (Zeme Nagas, Hmars, Kukis, Biates, Hrangkhols, Karbis).
  • The region remains ethnically diverse to this day.

Colonial Era

• • British Administration: Designated as a “partially excluded area”, limiting the application of colonial laws to preserve tribal autonomy.
  • Formation of Autonomous Councils (1951): The North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council was established to support self-governance for indigenous tribes.

Post-Independence Developments

• • District Formation (1970): Recognized as North Cachar Hills District.
  • Renaming (2010): Changed to Dima Hasao, meaning “Dimasa Hills,” to reflect the heritage of the Dimasa people.

Insurgency and Autonomy Movements

• • Statehood Demand (1960s): Movements emerged for a separate “Dimaraji” state.
  • Militant Groups:
    • Dimasa National Security Force (DNSF) formed in 1991.
    • Disbanded in 1995, but other factions continued advocating for tribal rights and autonomy.

Geography of Dima Hasao District

• • Area: 4,888 square kilometers (the third largest district in Assam).
  • Topography: Mostly hilly, with the Borail Range being a key feature. The highest peak is Thumjang (1,866 meters).
  • Borders :
    • North : Karbi Anglong, Nagaon
    • South : Cachar , Bordered by Barail Range
    • East : Manipur
    • West : Meghalaya
  • Rivers: Kapili, Siri, Jiri,Jatinga , Modhura.
  • Climate: Pleasant climate with cool summers (20°C to 30°C) and mild winters (8°C to 25°C). Haflong, the district headquarters, has a comfortable altitude of 966 meters.

Socio-Economy of Dima Hasao District

• • Economy: Primarily agrarian with a focus on farming.
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, ginger, turmeric, and various fruits. The hilly terrain allows terrace farming.
  • Tribal Economy: The district is home to diverse tribal groups, like Dimasa, Kuki, Zeme, and Hmar, who engage in traditional crafts and practices.
  • Tourism: The district is gaining attention for its eco-tourism and adventure tourism due to its natural beauty and cultural richness.

Transport in Dima Hasao District

• • Roadways: The district is well-connected by National Highway 54 and other roads linking it to Assam’s major cities.
  • Railways: The Haflong Railway Station connects the district to other regions.
  • Airways: The nearest airport is in Silchar, around 70 kilometers from Haflong.

Demographics of Dima Hasao District

• • Population Statistics

    • Total Population: 214,102

      • Male Population: 110,802 (51.7%)

      • Female Population: 103,300 (48.3%)

    Sex Ratio

    • Overall Sex Ratio: 932 females per 1000 males

    • Child Sex Ratio (0-6 years): 967 females per 1000 males

    Literacy Rate

    • Average Literacy Rate: 77.54%

      • Male Literacy Rate: 83.29%

      • Female Literacy Rate: 71.33%

    • Population Density = 44 persons per sq. km (lowest)

    Urban and Rural Distribution

    • Rural Population: 151,613 (70.81%)

    • Urban Population: 62,489 (29.19%)

    Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes

    • Scheduled Castes: 4,337

    • Scheduled Tribes: 151,843 (approximately 71% of the total population)

    Child Population (0-6 years)

    • Total Children (0-6 years): 32,414

      • Male Children: 16,480

      • Female Children: 15,934

Administrative Setup of Dima Hasao District

• • Dual Administration:
    • North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) governs local matters under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
    • The Deputy Commissioner’s Office handles other administrative duties.
  • Sub-Divisions: The district is divided into three sub-divisions: Diyungbra, Haflong, and Maibang.

Rainfall in Dima Hasao District

• • Average Annual Rainfall: Between 2,500 mm and 3,000 mm, mainly during the monsoon season (June to September).
  • This heavy rainfall contributes to the district’s lush greenery and biodiversity.

Attractive Tourist Places

• • Haflong: Known as “Scotland of Assam”, is the only hill station in Assam , famous for its cool climate and scenic views.
  • Jatinga: Known for the mysterious phenomenon where migratory birds reportedly commit suicide at specific times of the year.
  • Umrangso: A picturesque township ideal for adventure sports like rafting and trekking.

  • Maibong  an ancient site along the Mahur River was once the capital of the Kachari Kingdom, and is home to historical ruins and stone houses that reflect its royal past.

  • Hajong Lake for Boating and picnicking.

  • Haflong Lake A man-made lake constructed during British times, perfect for spending an evening gazing at fish or boating
  • Fiangpui Church The oldest and largest church in the district
  • Fiangpui Garden A beautiful garden on top of a hill.
  • Old Circuit House Offers a panoramic view of the valley and the Borail range and is a marvelous heritage bungalow from the British era
  • Seikal Bung Ideal for eco-tourism, trekking, and camping
  • Haflong Viewpoint (Abraham View Point) Easily accessible and provides an awe-inspiring vista of the picturesque landscapes
  • Maibong Stone House An ancient remnant of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom, located on the bank of the Mahur River
  • Panimur Waterfall A stunning waterfall on the river Kapili, and one of the biggest waterfalls in Assam. It is also known as the Niagara of Assam. It’s a perfect spot for picnics and adventure tourism.
  • Bendao Baglai Waterfalls Known for its unspoiled allure and exceptionally clear waters

Languages Spoken in Dima Hasao District

• • Dimasa: 35.73%
  • Bengali: 11.80%
  • Zemi: 9.65%
  • Other languages: The remaining population speaks various other languages, including Assamese and Hindi, but specific percentages for these are not detailed in the census data.