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{{Use Indian English|date=July 2014}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2024}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                           = Dima Hasao district
| name                 = Dima Hasao district
| native_name                     =  
| native_name         =
| other_name                     = North Cachar Hills
| official_name        =  
| settlement_type                 = [[List of districts of Assam|District]] of [[Assam]]
| other_name           =  
| image_skyline                   = Barail Range in Dima Hasao district.jpg
| settlement_type     = [[List of districts of Assam|District]] of [[Assam]]
| image_alt                       =  
| image_skyline       = Barail Range in Dima Hasao district.jpg
| image_caption                   = Barail Range in Dima Hasao
| image_alt           =  
| image_map                       = {{maplink |frame=yes
| image_caption       = [[Barail Range]] in Dima Hasao
|frame-width=225 |frame-height=225 |frame-align=center
| image_map           = Dima Hasao in Assam (India).svg
|text= '''Dima Hasao district'''
| image_map1          =  
|type=shape |id=Q42774
| map_alt             =  
|stroke-colour=#C60C30
| map_caption         = Location in Assam
|stroke-width=2
| coordinates         = {{coord|25.18|N|93.03|E|type:adm2nd|display=inline,title}}
|title= Dima Hasao district of Assam
| subdivision_type     = Country
|type2=line|id2=Q1164|stroke-width2=1|stroke-colour2=#0000ff|title2=Assam
| subdivision_name     = {{flag|India}}
}}
| subdivision_type1   = [[List of states and territories of India|State]]
| map_alt                         =  
| subdivision_name1   = [[Assam]]
| map_caption                     = Location in Assam
| subdivision_type2   = [[Administrative divisions of Assam|Division]]
| coordinates                     = {{coord|25.18|N|93.03|E|type:adm2nd|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_name2   = [[Central Assam Division|Central Assam]]
| subdivision_type               = Country
| subdivision_type3   =  
| subdivision_name               = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_name3   = [[Assam Hill Districts]]
| subdivision_type1               = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| established_title   = District created
| subdivision_name1               = [[Assam]]
| established_date     = 2 February 1970
| subdivision_type2               = [[Administrative divisions of Assam|Division]]
| founder             =  
| subdivision_name2               = [[Central Assam Division|Central Assam]]
| seat_type           = Headquarters
| subdivision_type3               =  
| seat                 = [[Haflong]]
| subdivision_name3               = [[Assam Hill Districts]]
| government_footnotes =  
| established_title               = District created
| government_type     = [[Autonomous district council|Autonomous district]]
| established_date               = 02-02-1970
| governing_body       = [[Dima Hasao Autonomous Council]]
| founder                         =  
| leader_title         = Chief Executive Member
| seat_type                       = Headquarters
| leader_name         = Debolal Gorlosa, [[Bharatiya Janata Party|BJP]]
| seat                           = [[Haflong]]
| leader_title1       = [[Lok Sabha|Lok Sabha constituencies]]
| government_footnotes           =  
| leader_name1         = [[Autonomous District Lok Sabha constituency|Autonomous District]] (shared with Karbi Anglong & West Karbi Anglong district)
| government_type                 = [[Autonomous district council|Autonomous district]]
| leader_title2       = [[Vidhan Sabha|Vidhan Sabha constituencies]]
| governing_body                 = [[North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council]]
| leader_name2         = [[Haflong Assembly constituency|Haflong]]
| leader_title                   = Chief Executive Member
| unit_pref           =  
| leader_name                     = [[Debolal Gorlosa]]
| area_footnotes       =  
| leader_title1                   = [[Lok Sabha|Lok Sabha constituencies]]
| area_rank           = 2
| leader_name1                   = [[Autonomous District (Lok Sabha constituency)|Autonomous District]] (shared with Karbi Anglong & West Karbi Anglong district)
| area_total_km2       = 4890
| leader_title2                   = [[Vidhan Sabha|Vidhan Sabha constituencies]]
| elevation_footnotes =  
| leader_name2                   = [[Haflong (Assembly constituency)|Haflong]]
| elevation_m         = 513
| unit_pref                       =  
| population_total     = 214,102
| area_footnotes                 =  
| population_as_of     = 2011
| area_rank                       = 2
| population_rank     =  
| area_total_km2                 = 4890
| population_density_km2 = 43.667
| elevation_footnotes             =  
| population_demonym   =  
| elevation_m                     = 513
| population_footnotes =  
| population_total               = 214,102
| demographics_type1   = Languages
| population_as_of               = 2011
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| population_rank                 =  
| demographics1_info1 = [[English language|English]]
| population_density_km2         = 43.667
| demographics1_title2 = Most spoken
| population_demonym             =  
| demographics1_info2  = See {{Section link|Dima Hasao district|Languages|nopage=y}}
| population_footnotes           =  
| timezone1           = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| demographics_type1             = Languages
| utc_offset1         = +5:30
| demographics1_title1           = Official
| postal_code_type     = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| demographics1_info1             = [[English language|English]]
| postal_code         = 788XXX
| blank1_name_sec2                = Most spoken language
| area_code_type       = Telephone code
| blank1_info_sec2                = [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]], [[Haflong Hindi]] (as langua franca)
| area_code           = 91 - (0) 03673
| timezone1                       = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| registration_plate   = AS-08
| utc_offset1                     = +5:30
| website             = [https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/ dimahasao.assam.gov.in]
| postal_code_type               = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| iso_code             = [[ISO 3166-2:IN|IN-AS]]
| postal_code                     = 788XXX
| footnotes           =  
| area_code_type                 = Telephone code
| area_code                       = 91 - (0) 03673
| registration_plate             = AS-08
| website                         = [https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/ dimahasao.assam.gov.in]
| iso_code                       = [[ISO 3166-2:IN|IN-AS]]
| footnotes                       =
| official_name                  =  
}}
}}


'''Dima Hasao district''' ({{IPA2|ˈdɪmə həˈsaʊ}}), earlier called '''North Cachar Hills district''', is an administrative district in the state of [[Assam]], India. As of 2011, it is the least populous district of Assam.<ref name="districtcensus">{{cite web | url = http://www.census2011.co.in/district.php | title = District Census 2011 | access-date = 2011-09-30 | year = 2011 | publisher = Census2011.co.in}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/information-services/district-at-a-glance|title=District at a Glance &#124; Dima Hasao District &#124; Government of Assam, India}}</ref>
'''Dima Hasao district''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|d|ɪ|m|ə|_|h|ə|ˈ|s|aʊ}}), is an administrative district in the state of [[Assam]], [[India]]. As of 2011, it is the least populous district of Assam.<ref name="districtcensus">{{Cite web |date=2011 |title=District Census Handbook: Dima Hasao |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/212/download/498/DH_2011_1816_PART_A_DCHB_DIMA_HASAO.pdf |website=censusindia.gov.in |publisher=[[Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/information-services/district-at-a-glance|title=District at a Glance &#124; Dima Hasao District &#124; Government of Assam, India}}</ref>


Dima Hasao district is one of the two Autonomous hill districts of the state of Assam. The district headquarter [[Haflong]] is the only hill station in Assam, a tourist paradise, also named the [[Switzerland]] of the north-east.
Dima Hasao district is one of two autonomous hill districts of Assam. The district headquarters [[Haflong]] is the only [[hill station]] in the state.<ref>{{cite news |title=Haflong: The only hill station in Assam |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/haflong-the-only-hill-station-in-assam/articleshow/104606224.cms |work=The Times of India |date=21 October 2023 |access-date=4 June 2024}}</ref>


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
"Dima Hasao" means "Dimasa Hills" in the [[Dimasa language]].
"Dima Hasao" means "Dimasa Hills" in the [[Dimasa language]].<ref name="GoA_GoI">{{cite web |title=Dimahasao District - NC Hills Autonomous Council |url=https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/information-and-services/nc-hills-autonomous-council |website=Government Of Assam, India |access-date=8 November 2023}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
The earliest inhabitants of the present district were a Mongoloid stock of groups who prefer to stay atop hilly terrain and  who practised their own culture, tradition and land rights governing themselves as independent tribes. As per records of different British historians and officials, North Cachar Hills was already occupied by the Dimasa Kacharis, erstwhile old Kuki tribes viz. Biate, Hrangkhol, Sakachep and Zeme Naga tribe during the [[British Rule in India]].<ref>Stewart, Lieutenant R. "Notes on Northern Cachar (1855).</ref>
===Dimasa kingdom===
 
{{Main|Möng Mao}}
===Medieval period===
During the medieval period (1500–1854), Dima Hasao was part of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom called 'Cachar Kingdom' with its capital at Maibang. The [[Dimasa Kingdom]] as per Ahom [[Buranji]], stretched from Kallang river in Nagaon to Kapili river<ref>Gait, Edward. (2011) History of Assam: Surjeet Publication. Delhi.</ref> that includes, parts from Cachar and North Cachar (Dima Hasao), the districts of Hojai, Nagaon, Golaghat and Karbi Anglong of Assam and Dimapur district, in Nagaland.
 
===Colonial period===
In the colonial period, Khaspur in present-day Cachar district, had been administrative centre. However internal schism led to division of old Cachar Kingdom into North Kachar and South Kachar. The last Dimasa king Govinda Chandra Hasnusa assigned Kashi Chandra the hilly tract of Cachar i.e. roughly Dima Hasao (North Kachar Kingdom) for administrative purpose. Soonerthe latter declared its independence over the hilly portion that lead to treacherous murder of Kashi Chandra by Raja Govinda Chandra Hasnusa. Incensed, the son of Kashi Chandra, Tularam  incessantly created political turbulence asserting his sovereignty over hilly portion of Cachar Kingdom. Finally, with British assistance, Tularam succeeded in carving North Cachar Hills from Cachar Kingdom. David Scott agent to British Raj in 1829<ref>Rhodes, NG & Bose, SK. (2006) History of the Dimasa -Kachari As seen Through the coinage. Mira Bose: Dhubri (Assam).</ref> made an arrangement to recognise Tularam as the ruler of North Cachar (Dima Hasao).  In 1850s, Tularam died and the frequent Angami raids and grave incident at Semkhor village paved a ground to extend British influence over North Cachar. In 1853, North Cachar was annexed and made part of Nagaon district of British Assam as subdivision.


In 1867, this sub-division was abolished and apportioned into three parts among the [[Cachar district|Cachar]], [[Khasi and Jaintia Hills]] districts, and [[Nagaon]]. The present Dima Hasao district, or formerly North Cachar Hills district was included in the old Cachar district with Asalu being only police outpost. In 1880, this portion was constituted into a sub-division with headquarters at Gunjung under Cachar district.
From {{Circa|1500}}, Dima Hasao was part of the [[Dimasa Kingdom]] (or Kachar kingdom), with its capital at [[Maibang]] and [[Dimapur]].{{sfn|Shin|2020|p=64}}{{sfn|Shin|2020|p=70}}{{sfn|Bhattacharjee|1987|p=222}} As per Ahom [[Buranji]], the kingdom stretched from the [[Kopili river]] in present-day [[Nagaon district]] to the [[Dhansiri river]] in present-day [[Golaghat district]]. This included parts of Cachar and North Cachar (Dima Hasao), the districts of Hojai, Nagaon, Golaghat and Karbi Anglong of [[Assam]] and Dimapur district, in [[Nagaland]].{{sfn|Ramirez|2007|p=93}}{{sfn|Phukan|1992|p=57}}[[File:India Map 1860.png|thumb|260px|right|{{center|Tularam Senapati's territory depicted in the map of [[British India]] created by W. G. Blackie in 1860}}]]
[[File:Bengal gazetteer 1907.jpg|thumb|260px|right|{{center|Map of [[Eastern Bengal and Assam]] created by J. G. Bartholomew in 1907. A part of Tularam's territory (stretching from Jamuna river to [[Lumding]]) was transferred to [[Sivasagar district]] and the rest (stretching from Lumding to Maibang) was transferred to Cachar district.}}]]
In the colonial period, Khaspur in present-day Cachar district was the administrative centre. However an internal schism led to the division of the old Kachar Kingdom into two parts. The last Dimasa king, Govinda Chandra Hasnusa, assigned Kashi Chandra the hilly tract of Kachar (i.e. the area between Mahur river and the [[Naga Hills]] in the south, the Doyang river on the west, the Dhansiri River on the east and Jamuna river in the north.) for administrative purposes. Soon the latter declared his independence over the hilly portion. That led to the treacherous murder of Kashi Chandra by Raja Govinda Chandra Hasnusa.{{citation needed|date=November 2022}} Incensed, the son of Kashi Chandra, Tularam Senapati, incessantly created political turbulence, asserting his sovereignty over hilly portion of Kachar Kingdom. Finally, with British assistance, Tularam succeeded in carving out his own territory from Kachar Kingdom. David Scott, agent to the British Raj in 1829<ref>Rhodes, NG & Bose, SK. (2006) History of the Dimasa -Kachari As seen Through the coinage. Mira Bose: Dhubri (Assam).</ref> made an arrangement to recognise Tularam as the ruler of hilly tract of Kachar. In 1850, Tularam died and the frequent Angami raids and a grave incident at [[Semkhor]] village paved the ground to extend British influence over Tularam's territory. In 1852, his territory was annexed and made part of the [[Nagaon district|Nowgong district]] of British Assam as a subdivision, with [[Asalu]] as its headquarter.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 September 2021 |title=Historical Demarcation of Nagaland-Assam Border - Eastern Mirror |url=https://easternmirrornagaland.com/historical-demarcation-of-nagaland-assam-border/ |access-date=28 May 2023 |website=easternmirrornagaland.com |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref group=Note name=Note01/><ref name="Assam Information"/><ref>Stewart, Lieutenant R. "Notes on Northern Cachar (1855).</ref>


This headquarters was shifted to [[Haflong]] in 1895.  Since then, Haflong has continued to be the headquarters. In 1951, after the adoption of the [[Constitution of India|Indian constitution]], North Cachar Hills ceased to be a part of Cachar district, as specified under paragraph 20 of the sixth schedule to the constitution. This part along with [[Karbi Anglong district|Mikir Hills]] constituted a new civil district named "United District of North Cachar and Mikir Hills", which went into effect on 17 November 1951. According to a provision of the sixth schedule, two different councils were constituted later on, viz., North Cachar Hills District Council and Mikir Hills District Council within the geographical boundary of that North Cachar Hills District Council was inaugurated on 19 April 1952.
=== British administration ===
In 1866, this sub-division was abolished and apportioned into three parts among the [[Cachar district|Cachar]], [[Naga Hills District, British India|Naga Hills district]], and Nowgong district. The present area of the Dima Hasao district was included in the old Cachar district.<ref name="Ved_Prakash">{{cite book |last1=Prakash |first1=Col Ved |title=Encyclopaedia of North-East India |date=2007 |publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Dist |isbn=978-81-269-0703-8 |page=268,269 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ic4UCdaxbHIC&pg=PA268}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Gait |first=Edward Albert |title=A History of Assam |date=9 January 2024 |publisher=Thacker, Spink & Company |page=307 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GvcRAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA307}}</ref> In 1880, this portion was constituted into a sub-division with headquarters at Gunjung under Cachar district.<ref name="Assam Information">{{cite book |title=Assam Information |date=1981 |publisher=Directorate of Information & Public Relations. |pages=47–50 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=W7e1AAAAIAAJ&pg=PA47}}</ref> This headquarters was shifted to [[Haflong]] in 1895. Since then, Haflong continued to be the headquarters till 1951.<ref name="Assam Information"/>


===Since Independence===
===Since Indian independence===
On 17 November 1951, '''Mikir Hills and North Cachar Hills District''' was created with area occupying present Dima Hasao district, [[Karbi Anglong district|Karbi Anglong]] and [[West Karbi Anglong district]]. On 2 February 1970, the government declared an independent administrative district, viz., North Cachar Hills District with the geographical boundary of autonomous North Cachar Hills district council. At present,{{When|date=October 2018}} this autonomous council possesses administrative control over almost all departments of the district except Law and Order, Administration, and Treasury department.
On 17 November 1951, '''United Mikir and North Cachar Hills''' District was created with area occupying present-day Dima Hasao district, [[Karbi Anglong district|Karbi Anglong]] and [[West Karbi Anglong district]].<ref name="GoA_GoI"/><ref>{{cite web |title=District Profile of Karbi Anglong |url=https://karbianglong.gov.in/information-services/district-profile |website=Government Of Assam, India |access-date=8 November 2023}}</ref> On 2 February 1970, the government declared an independent administrative district, viz. '''North Cachar Hills''' District with the geographical boundary of present-day Dimapur Hasao district.<ref name="GoA_GoI"/> On 30 March 2010, the district was further renamed to '''Dima Hasao''' district.<ref>{{cite news |title=Tribes in Assam hill district seek separate autonomous council |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/tribes-in-assam-hill-district-seek-separate-autonomous-council/article66360275.ece |work=The Hindu |date=11 January 2023 |access-date=10 October 2024}}</ref>
 
==Administration==
Dima Hasao comprises three subdivisions: (I) Haflong, (II) Maibang and (III) Diyungbra. The district consists of five Community Development Blocks: (I) Jatinga Valley Development Block, Mahur; (II) Diyung Valley Development Block, Maibang; (III) Harangajao ITD Block, Harangajao; (IV) Diyungbra ITD Block, Diyungmukh; and (V) New Sangbar Development Block, Sangbar.<ref>{{cite web |title=Dima Hasao District |url=http://nchills.gov.in/NCHILLS-ADMIN.htm |publisher=North Cachar Hills |access-date=19 September 2018}}</ref> There is one municipality board viz. Haflong and three town committees in Dima Hasao viz. Mahur, Maibang and Umrangso and also mini-towns like Harangajao, Langting and Diyungbra.


==Geography==
==Geography==
The district headquarters are located at [[Haflong]]. Dima Hasao district occupies an area of {{convert|4888|km2|sqmi}}.,<ref name="Reference Annual">{{cite book|last1=Srivastava, Dayawanti et al. (ed.)|title=India 2010: A Reference Annual|publisher=Additional Director General, Publications Division, [[Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (India)]], [[Government of India]]|year=2010|isbn=978-81-230-1617-7|edition=54th|location=New Delhi, India|pages=1116|chapter=States and Union Territories: Assam: Government}}<!--| access-date = 2011-10-11 --></ref> comparatively equivalent to [[Brazil]]'s [[Ilha Grande do Gurupá]].<ref name='Islands'>{{cite web | url = http://islands.unep.ch/Tiarea.htm | title = Island Directory Tables: Islands by Land Area | access-date = 2011-10-11 | date = 1998-02-18 | publisher = [[United Nations Environment Program]] | quote = Ilha Grande do Gurupá 4,864km2}}</ref> It is the second largest district of [[Assam]] after [[Karbi Anglong]]. [[Dima Hasao District]] is surrounded by [[Karbi Anglong district]] and Nagaland on North-East, [[Manipur]] on East, [[Hojai]] District on North, [[West Karbi Anglong district]] on North-West, [[Meghalaya]] on West and [[Cachar district]] on South.
The district headquarters are located at [[Haflong]]. Dima Hasao district occupies an area of {{convert|4888|km2|sqmi}},<ref name="Reference Annual">{{cite book|last1=Srivastava |first1=Dayawanti |title=India 2010: A Reference Annual |publisher=Additional Director General, Publications Division, [[Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (India)]], [[Government of India]] |year=2010 |isbn=978-81-230-1617-7 |edition=54th |location=New Delhi, India |pages=1116 |chapter=States and Union Territories: Assam: Government}}<!--| access-date = 2011-10-11 --></ref> It is the second-largest district of [[Assam]] after [[Karbi Anglong]].<ref name="Distt_Profile"/><ref>{{cite web |title=Districts - Assam State Portal |url=https://assam.gov.in/about-us/396 |website=assam.gov.in |access-date=8 November 2023}}</ref> Dima Hasao District is surrounded by [[Karbi Anglong district]] and Nagaland on the northeast, [[Manipur]] on the east, [[Hojai]] District to the north, [[West Karbi Anglong district]] on the northwest, [[Meghalaya]] on the west and [[Cachar district]] in the south.<ref>{{cite web |title=Administrative Division Map of Assam (Census - 2011) |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/1369 |website=censusindia.gov.in |publisher=Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India |access-date=8 November 2023}}</ref>
 
==Politics==
{{Main|North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council}}
Dima Hasao district is an [[Autonomous District Council|autonomous district]] enjoying the Sixth Schedule status granted by the [[Constitution of India]].  The Dima Hasao District is administered by [[North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council]] (DHADC). Members of the Autonomous Council (MAC) are elected by people of Dima Hasao. The Political party who has majority MACs form the ruling party. The Autonomous Council is a powerful body and almost all the department of government are under its control except the police and Law & Order is under Assam Government.
 
==Economy==
In 2006, the Indian government named Dima Hasao one of the country's 250 [[Poverty in India|most backward districts]] (out of a total of [[Districts of India|640]]).<ref name=brgf/> It is one of the eleven districts in Assam currently receiving funds from the [[Backward Regions Grant Fund|Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme]] (BRGF).<ref name=brgf>{{cite web|author=Ministry of Panchayati Raj |date=8 September 2009 |title=A Note on the Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme |publisher=National Institute of Rural Development |url=http://www.nird.org.in/brgf/doc/brgf_BackgroundNote.pdf |access-date=27 September 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405033402/http://www.nird.org.in/brgf/doc/brgf_BackgroundNote.pdf |archive-date=5 April 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref>
 
===Energy===
;Kopili HEP
[[Kopili Hydro Electric Project]] is a power project near [[Umrangso]], involving two dams on Kopili river and Umrong nalla, a [[tributary]] of Kopili. There are two power stations as part of Kopili HEP, Khandong Stage I & II (75 MW) and Kopili Stage I & II (200 MW), with total output of 275 MW.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://india-wris.nrsc.gov.in/wrpinfo/index.php?title=Kopili_Hydroelectric_Project_JH00099|title=Kopili Hydro Electric Project|website=Water Resources Information System of India|access-date=23 February 2019}}</ref>


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
Line 117: Line 94:


===Population===
===Population===
According to the [[2011 census of India|2011 census]], Dima Hasao has a [[Demographics of India|population]] of 214,102,<ref name="districtcensus"/> roughly equal to the nation of [[Samoa]].<ref name="cia">{{cite web | author = US Directorate of Intelligence | title = Country Comparison:Population | url = https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2119rank.html | access-date = 2011-10-01 | quote = Samoa 193,161
According to the [[2011 census of India|2011 census]], Dima Hasao had a [[Demographics of India|population]] of 214,102, giving it a ranking of 588th in India (out of a total of [[Districts of India|640]]). The district had a population density of {{convert|44|PD/sqkm|PD/sqmi}}. Its [[Family planning in India|population growth rate]] over the decade 2001-2011 was 13.53%. Dima Hasao had a [[sex ratio]] of 931 [[Women in India|females]] for every 1000 males and a [[Literacy in India|literacy rate]] of 78.99%.<ref name=districtcensus/>
}}</ref>  This gives it a ranking of 588th in India (out of a total of [[Districts of India|640]]).<ref name=districtcensus/> The district has a population density of {{convert| 44 |PD/sqkm|PD/sqmi}}.<ref name=districtcensus/> Its [[Family planning in India|population growth rate]] over the decade 2001-2011 was 13.53%.<ref name=districtcensus/> Dima Hasao has a [[sex ratio]] of 931 [[Women in India|females]] for every 1000 males<ref name=districtcensus/> and a [[Literacy in India|literacy rate]] of 78.99%.<ref name=districtcensus/>


====Ethnic groups====
====Ethnic groups====
{{cleanup rewrite|reason=too long|date=July 2020}}
[[Dima Hasao]] is one of the three hill districts in Assam with a tribal majority population, the others being [[Karbi Anglong]] and [[West Karbi Anglong district|West Karbi Anglong]].<ref name="GoA_GoI"/> The tribal population in Dima Hasao accounts for about 70.92% of the total population of the district according to the 2011 census, the highest percentage in the state, including [[Dimasa people|Dimasa Kachari]], [[Zeme people|Zeme Naga]], [[Hmar people|Hmar]], [[Kuki people|Kuki]], [[Karbi people|Karbi]], [[Khasi people|Khasi]], [[Hrangkhol people|Hrangkhol]] and [[Biate people|Biate]].<ref name="languages"/><ref name="GoA_GoI"/> Scheduled Castes are 2.02%.<ref name="Distt_Profile">{{cite web |title=District Profile - Dimahasao District |url=https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/about-us/district-profile |website=Government Of Assam, India |access-date=8 November 2023}}</ref> Non-tribal communities includes [[Bengalis]], [[Indian Gorkha|Nepalis]], [[Hindi]]-speakers and few other communities who have made the district their home.<ref name="languages"/>
[[Dima Hasao]] is one of the three hill districts in Assam with a tribal majority population, the others being [[Karbi Anglong]] and [[West Karbi Anglong district|West Karbi Anglong]]. The tribal population in Dima Hasao accounts for about 70.92% of the total population of the district according to the 2011 census, the highest percentage in the state. Scheduled Castes are 2.02%. The major indigenous communities inhabiting the district are [[Dimasa people|Dimasa Kachari]], [[Karbi people|Karbi]], [[Zeme people|Zeme Naga]], [[Hmar people|Hmar]], [[Biate people|Biate]] and a number of minor indigenous communities including: [[Hrangkhol people|Hrangkhol]], [[Pnar people|Khasi-Pnars]], [[Rongmei Naga]], [[Hmar people|Khelma]] and [[Vaiphei people|Vaiphei]]. The Kuki, Hmar, Biate, Hrangkhol and Vaiphei language speakers belong to the Kuki-Chin ethnic group. Non-indigenous communities includes Kanrupi Bengali, [[Indian Gorkha|Gorkha]] tribes, Deshwali tribes and few other communities who have made the district their home.


As per the language data, the largest non-tribal communities are Bengalis (25,264: change of -7.53% from 2001), Nepalis (13,615: +9.76%), Hindi speakers (9,926: +13.83%), Assamese speakers (4,057: -26.32%), Halam-Kuki/Khelma/Riam (1,940 : +15.41%), Bodo-Kachari (1,604 : -7.82%), Meitei (1,373 : -24.64%), Tripuri (527: -21.11%), and Bishnupriya (401: -14.32%).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-16.html|title = Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India}}</ref>
{{bar box
{{bar box
|title=Religions in Dima Hasao district (2011)<ref name="Religion">{{cite web |title=C-16 Population By Religion - Assam |url=https://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW18C-01%20MDDS.XLS |website=census.gov.in |access-date=17 July 2020}}</ref>
|title=Religions in Dima Hasao district (2011)<ref name="Religion"/>
|titlebar=#FCD116
|titlebar=#FCD116
|left1=Religion
|left1=Religion
|right1=Percent
|right1=Percent
|float=left
|float=right
|bars=
|bars=
{{bar percent|[[Hinduism in Assam|Hinduism]]|darkorange|67.07}}
{{bar percent|[[Hinduism in Assam|Hinduism]]|darkorange|67.07}}
{{bar percent|[[Christianity in Assam|Christianity]]|dodgerblue|29.57}}
{{bar percent|[[Christianity in Assam|Christianity]]|dodgerblue|29.57}}
{{bar percent|[[Islam in Assam|Islam]]|#008000|2.04}}
{{bar percent|[[Islam in Assam|Islam]]|green|2.04}}
{{bar percent|Tribal religion|chartreuse|0.55}}
{{bar percent|Others <small>(Tribal religion)</small>|chartreuse|0.55}}
{{bar percent|Other or not stated|black|0.77}}
{{bar percent|Other or not stated|black|0.77}}
}}
}}
As of the 2011 census, 67.07% of the population are Hindus, 29.57% Christians and 2.04% Muslims.
As of the 2011 census, 67.07% of the population are Hindus, 29.57% Christians and 2.04% Muslims.<ref name="Religion">{{cite web |date=2011 |title=Table C-01 Population By Religion: Assam |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11365/download/14478/DDW18C-01%20MDDS.XLS |website=census.gov.in |publisher=[[Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India]]  |access-date=9 November 2023}}</ref>
 
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Ethnic Group  
! Ethnic Group  
!Decadal<br>growth rate !! 2001<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/DigitalLibrary/MFTableSeries.aspx|title=WELCOME TO CENSUS OF INDIA : Census India Library}}</ref> !! 2011<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/SCST-Series/ST14.html|title = Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India}}</ref> !! Religion (2001) !! Religion (2011)
!Decadal<br/>growth rate !! 2001<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/DigitalLibrary/MFTableSeries.aspx|title=WELCOME TO CENSUS OF INDIA : Census India Library}}</ref> !! 2011<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/SCST-Series/ST14.html|title = Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India}}</ref> !! Religion (2001) !! Religion (2011)
|-
|-
| '''Total'''  
| '''Total'''  
Line 170: Line 145:
| +3.41% || 59,651 || 61,686 || Hindu - 86.57%, Muslim - 7.34%, Christian - 4.57% || Hindu - 85.80%, Muslim - 6.50%, Christian - 5.57%  
| +3.41% || 59,651 || 61,686 || Hindu - 86.57%, Muslim - 7.34%, Christian - 4.57% || Hindu - 85.80%, Muslim - 6.50%, Christian - 5.57%  
|}
|}
===Languages===
===Languages===
{{Pie chart
{{Pie chart
| thumb = right
|thumb = right
| caption = Languages of Dima Hasao (2011)
|caption = Languages of Dima Hasao (2011)<ref name="languages"/>
| label1 = [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]] | value1 = 35.73 | color1 = powderblue
|label1 = [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]] |value1 = 35.72 |color1 = powderblue
| label2 = [[Bengali language|Bengali]] | value2 = 11.8 | color2 = saddlebrown
|label2 = [[Bengali language|Bengali]] |value2 = 11.80 |color2 = orchid
| label3 = [[Zeme language|Zeme]] | value3 = 9.65 | color3 = thistle
|label3 = [[Zeme language|Zeme]] |value3 = 9.65 |color3 = thistle
| label4 = [[Hmar language|Hmar]] | value4 = 7.65 | color4 = lavender
|label4 = [[Hmar language|Hmar]] |value4 = 7.65 |color4 = lavender
| label5 = [[Nepali language|Nepali]] | value5 = 6.36 | color5 = pink
|label5 = [[Nepali language|Nepali]] |value5 = 6.36 |color5 = lightcoral
| label6 = [[Kuki-Chin languages|Kuki]] | value6 = 5.11 | color6 = slateblue
|label6 = [[Kuki-Chin languages|Kuki]] |value6 = 5.11 |color6 = slateblue
| label7 = [[Karbi language|Karbi]] | value7 = 4.46 | color7 = darkblue
|label7 = [[Karbi language|Karbi]] |value7 = 4.46 |color7 = darkblue
| label8 = [[Hindi]] | value8 = 4.45 | color8 = orange
|label8 = [[Hindi]] |value8 = 3.14 |color8 = orange
| label9 = [[Khasi language|Khasi]] | value9 = 1.93 | color9 = aqua
|label9 = [[Khasi language|Khasi]] |value9 = 1.93 |color9 = aqua
| label10 = [[Assamese language|Assamese]] | value10 = 1.89 | color10 = gold
|label10 = [[Assamese language|Assamese]] |value10 = 1.89 |color10 = purple
| label11 = Others | value11 = 10.97 | color11 = grey
|label11 = Others |value11 = 12.29 |color11 = grey
}}
}}
At the time of the 2011 census, 35.73% of the district spoke [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]], 11.80% [[Bengali language|Bengali]], 9.65% [[Zeme language|Zeme]], 7.65% [[Hmar language|Hmar]], 6.36% [[Nepali language|Nepali]], 5.11% [[Kuki-Chin languages|Kuki]], 4.46% [[Karbi language|Karbi]], 3.14% [[Hindi]], 1.93% [[Khasi language|Khasi]] and 1.89% [[Assamese language|Assamese]] as their first language.


[[Dimasa language|Dimasa]] and [[Haflong Hindi]] (a speech form of Hindi) are the main lingua franca in the Dima Hasao.<ref name="Ved Prakash">Col Ved Prakash, "Encyclopaedia of North-east India, Vol# 2", Atlantic Publishers & Distributors;Pg 575, {{ISBN|978-81-269-0704-5}}</ref>
At the time of the 2011 census, 35.72% of the district spoke [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]], 11.80% [[Bengali language|Bengali]], 9.65% [[Zeme language|Zeme]], 7.65% [[Hmar language|Hmar]], 6.36% [[Nepali language|Nepali]], 5.11% [[Kuki-Chin languages|Kuki]], 4.46% [[Karbi language|Karbi]], 3.14% [[Hindi]], 1.93% [[Khasi language|Khasi]], 1.89% [[Assamese language|Assamese]].<ref name="languages">{{cite web |date=2011 |title=Table C-16 Population By Mother Tongue: Assam |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/10195/download/13307/DDW-C16-STMT-MDDS-1800.XLSX |website=censusindia.gov.in |publisher=[[Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India]] |access-date=9 November 2023}}</ref>
==Culture==
 
{{Cleanup|reason=Poor grammar, style and dictation|date=March 2015}}
==Government and politics==
{{cleanup|reason=too long|date=August 2019}}
===Politics===
{{Main|Dima Hasao Autonomous Council}}
Dima Hasao district is an [[Autonomous District Council|autonomous district]] with Sixth Schedule status granted by the [[Constitution of India]]. The Dima Hasao District is administered by [[Dima Hasao Autonomous Council]] (DHADC). Members of the Autonomous Council (MAC) are elected by people of Dima Hasao. The Political party who has majority MACs form the ruling party. The Autonomous Council is a powerful body and almost all the department of government are under its control except the police and Law & Order is under Assam Government.<ref name="GoA_GoI"/>
 
===Administration===
Dima Hasao comprises three subdivisions: Haflong, Maibang, and Diyungbra. The district consists of five Community Development Blocks: Jatinga Valley, Mahur; Diyung Valley, Maibang; Harangajao ITD Block, Harangajao; Diyungbra ITD Block, Diyungmukh; and New Sangbar, Sangbar.<ref>{{cite web |title=Dima Hasao District |url=http://nchills.gov.in/NCHILLS-ADMIN.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190921184021/http://nchills.gov.in/NCHILLS-ADMIN.htm |archive-date=21 September 2019 |access-date=19 September 2018 |publisher=North Cachar Hills - Government of Assam}}</ref>
 
==Economy==
In 2006, the Indian government named Dima Hasao one of the country's 250 [[Poverty in India|most backward districts]] (out of a total of [[Districts of India|640]]). It is one of the eleven districts in Assam currently receiving funds from the [[Backward Regions Grant Fund|Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme]] (BRGF).<ref name=brgf>{{cite web|author=Ministry of Panchayati Raj |date=8 September 2009 |title=A Note on the Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme |publisher=National Institute of Rural Development |url=http://www.nird.org.in/brgf/doc/brgf_BackgroundNote.pdf |access-date=27 September 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405033402/http://www.nird.org.in/brgf/doc/brgf_BackgroundNote.pdf |archive-date=5 April 2012 }}</ref>
 
===Energy===
[[Kopili Hydro Electric Project]] is a power project near [[Umrangso]], involving two dams on Kopili river and Umrong nalla, a [[tributary]] of Kopili. There are two power stations as part of Kopili HEP, Khandong Stage I & II (75 MW) and Kopili Stage I & II (200 MW), with total output of 275 MW.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://india-wris.nrsc.gov.in/wrpinfo/index.php?title=Kopili_Hydroelectric_Project_JH00099|title=Kopili Hydro Electric Project|website=Water Resources Information System of India|access-date=23 February 2019|archive-date=20 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220041715/http://india-wris.nrsc.gov.in/wrpinfo/index.php?title=Kopili_Hydroelectric_Project_JH00099|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Dima Hasao District is a land of sensuousness. The district is populated by various tribes and races who maintain their own dialect, culture, customs and way of living. Apart from various tribes, non-tribals also account for a sizable amount of the population. They are mostly government employees, traders, graziers living in urban and semi-urban area. The small and serene villages shelter the lovely people – warm and fascinating – and as colourful as the land itself.
==Tourism==
===Place of interest===
*[[Jatinga]] village
The village [[Jatinga]] is known for mysterious 'suicide of birds', between the months of September and November.<ref name="Assam Information"/><ref>{{cite news |title=The Valley of Death: Jatinga, the Assam village, where birds are 'suicidal' |url=https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/the-valley-of-death-jatinga-the-assam-village-where-birds-are-suicidal-13052212.html |access-date=8 November 2023 |work=Firstpost |date=29 August 2023}}</ref> Large number of tourists visit that time of the year to witness the phenomenon.<ref name="Assam Information"/>


The district is home to [[Dimasa people|Dimasa Kacharis]], [[Zeme Naga]], [[Hmar people|Hmars]], [[Kukis]], [[Biate people|Biates]], [[Hrangkhol people|Hrangkhol]].
*Panimur waterfall
[[Panimur]] is also located in the Dima Hasao district of [[Assam]], [[India]]. It is most famous for the Panimur Waterfall, also known as the Niagara of Northeast,<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 June 2021 |title=পানীমূৰ- নায়েগ্ৰা অৱ নর্থইষ্ট - Mahabahu.com |url=https://mahabahu.com/%E0%A6%AA%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A8%E0%A7%80%E0%A6%AE%E0%A7%82%E0%A7%B0-%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%BE%E0%A7%9F%E0%A7%87%E0%A6%97%E0%A7%8D%E0%A7%B0%E0%A6%BE-%E0%A6%85%E0%A7%B1-%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%B0%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%A5/ |access-date=1 October 2024 |website=mahabahu.com |language=en-US}}</ref> which forms from the [[Kopili River]] as it flows over rocky terrain, creating a wide, cascading waterfall that is a major attraction for tourists and photographers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 October 2020 |title=Panimur waterfall – The Niagara of Assam |url=https://destinationassam.org/2020/10/01/panimur-waterfall-assam/ |access-date=30 September 2024 |website=Destination Assam |language=en}}</ref> Additionally, the surrounding areas offer unique opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities, making it a favourite among explorers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 January 2024 |title=Eco-tourism in Assam: Exploring the natural wonders of Dima Hasao |url=https://assamtourism.gov.in/eco-tourism-dima-hasao |access-date=1 October 2024 |website=Assam Tourism |language=en}}</ref>


Judima is a very important brew made by Dimasa tribals used in ceremonies and festivals is very famous in this region. In sept 2021, Judima got GI tag by Government of India making it the first bree in northeastern part of India to bag this title.
*[[Maibang]]
The town of [[Maibang]] is notable for its rock-cut temple carved out of a single black sandstone in triangular dimension. It houses the Hindu goddess [[Chandi|Ranachandi]] or [[Mahamaya]]. The town was the capital of the [[Dimasa Kingdom]] in the 16th century.<ref name="Assam Information"/>
 
*[[Umrangso]]
Notable for its hydroelectric power project and wildlife reserves, the town of Umrangso is a destination for sightseeing, fishing, camping and trekking. It is a popular resting place of the [[Amur falcon]], and it also host the annual [[Falcon Festival]] for the same.
 
*Garampani
The Garampani settlement, which is also known for its hot-springs, is situated 10&nbsp;km from Umrangso.<ref name="Assam Information"/>


==Education==
==Education==
Average literacy rate of Dima Hasao in 2011 were 77.54% compared to 67.62% of 2001. All schools of Dima Hasao are run by the state government or private organisations. English is the primary languages of instruction in most of the schools. The schools are recognised either with [[Board of Secondary Education, Assam]] (SEBA), [[Assam Higher Secondary Education Council]] (AHSEC) or [[Central Board of Secondary Education]] (CBSE). All Colleges of Dima Hasao are affiliated to [[Assam University]], a central university, which imparts education in both the general as well as professional streams.
Average literacy rate of Dima Hasao in 2011 were 77.54% compared to 67.62% of 2001. All schools of Dima Hasao are run by the state government or private organisations. English is the primary languages of instruction in most of the schools. The schools are recognised either by the [[Board of Secondary Education, Assam]], the [[Assam Higher Secondary Education Council]], or the [[Central Board of Secondary Education]]. All Dima Hasao colleges are affiliated to [[Assam University]], a central university, which imparts education in both the general as well as professional streams.


===College===
===College===
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a college to this list if it already has its own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order ♦♦♦--->
* [[Haflong Government College]], Haflong
* [[Haflong Government College]], Haflong
* J.B Hagjer Junior College, Umrangso
* B. Bodo Junior College, Maibang
* Hills Degree College, Haflong
* J.B Hagjer Memorial Junior College, Diyungbra
* Maibang Degree College, Maibang
* Sengya Sambudhan Junior College, Haflong
* M.C.D Junior College, Harangajao.


===Schools===
===Schools===
Prominent schools in the district:
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a school to this list if it already has its own article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order ♦♦♦--->
*[[Ever Green High School]], Maibang
*[[Ever Green High School]], Maibang
*Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya,NEEPCO, Umrangso
*Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Haflong
*Lower Haflong High School.
*Trinity High School, Mahur
*Vivekananda Kendriya Vidyalaya, Sarkari Bagan, Haflong
*Mahur High School, Mahur
*St. Agnes Convent Higher Secondary School, Dibarai, Haflong
*Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Haflong
*CHT Synod Higher Secondary School, Haflong
*Tularam Memorial Good Shepherd School, Gunjung
*Presbyterian High School, Mahur
*Langting High School, Langting
*HM St. Mary's High School, Langting
*Prabananda Vidya Mandir, Maibang
*Raja Gobindh Chandra Aarsh Gurukulum, Diyungbra
*Royal Academy, Umrangso
*Jamundadevi Saraswati School
* Sacred Heart High school, Umrangso
==Tourism==
Dima Hasao is a land with full of natural beauties. Beautiful hilly town Haflong, which is the only hill station of Assam. The village [[Jatinga]] is famous for mysterious suicides of birds. Some notable places of Dima Hasao are [[Umrangso]], Panimur Falls, [[Maibang]], Tumjang Trek at Selkal Peak etc.


==Media==
==Media==
===Television===
===Television===
{|class=wikitable
{|class=wikitable
Line 249: Line 220:
! Ref
! Ref
|-
|-
|| NDH (News Dima Hasao) || || [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]] [[Hindi]] [[English language|English]]||Zed Nunisa || [https://web.archive.org/web/20151031132014/http://newsdimahasao.today/ ]
|| NDH (News Dima Hasao) || || [[Dimasa language|Dimasa]], [[Hindi]], [[English language|English]]||Viraj Nag || [https://web.archive.org/web/20151031132014/http://newsdimahasao.today/]
|-
|-
|| Assam Talks || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Mahmadhul Hussan ||
|| Assam Talks || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Mahmadhul Hussan ||
|-
|-
|| News Live || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Ashim Choudhury ||
|| News Live || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Swadeep Hasam ||
|-
|-
|| News Time Assam || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Anup Biswas ||
|| News Time Assam || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Anup Biswas ||
|-
|-
|| Prag News || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Sanjib Dutta ||
|| Prag News || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || ||
|-
|-
|| DY365 || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Samsul Alam ||
|| DY365 || || [[Assamese language|Assamese]] || Samsul Alam ||
|-
|-
|| NKTV || || Assamese || Pankaj Kumar Deb ||
|| NKTV || || Assamese || Monku Das ||
|-
|-
|| Hills Live TV || || || ||
|| Hills Live TV || || || ||
|-
|-
|| Borail News || || || ||
|| DD News|| || English, Hindi and Assamese || Suroj Barman ||
|-
|| Karbi Anglong Live || || English and Karbi || Suroj Barman ||
|-
|-
|| Pratidin Times || || Assamese || Pankaj Tumung ||
|| Pratidin Times || || Assamese || Pankaj Tumung ||
Line 275: Line 245:
* [[All India Radio]], Akashvani Haflong broadcasts from Haflong at 100.02 megahertz on [[FM broadcasting|FM]] band.
* [[All India Radio]], Akashvani Haflong broadcasts from Haflong at 100.02 megahertz on [[FM broadcasting|FM]] band.


===Local newspapers===
==Notable place==
*[[Haflong Khurang]] ([[Dimasa language|Dimasa]] weekly)
*[[Haflong]]
*Haflong Times (English weekly)
*[[Maibang]]
*Dima Hasao Post (English weekly)
*[[Panimur]]
*Agape (Hmar weekly)
*[[Umrangso]]
*Shoilo Prohori (Bengali Weekly)


==See also==
==See also==
*[[List of districts of Assam]]
*[[List of districts of Assam]]
*[[2024 Dima Hasao Autonomous Council Election]]
==Notes==
{{Reflist|group=Note|refs=
<ref name=Note01>In the given article published by Eastern Mirror, it has not been mentioned which area had been annexed to the Nowgong district as a subdivision in 1852. But, since Asalu has historically been a part of Tularam's territory, it can be implied that the same territory was annexed to the Nowgong district.</ref>
}}


== References ==
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
== Sources ==
* {{Cite journal| last = Bhattacharjee| first=J B| title = The Economic Content of the Medieval State Formation Processes among the Dimasas of North East India | journal= Proceedings of the Indian History Congress| volume=48 | year=1987| pages= 222–225| jstor=44141683|issn=2249-1937}}
* {{Citation |last=Phukan |first=J. N. |contribution=Chapter III The Tai-Ahom Power in Assam |editor-last=Barpujari |editor-first=H. K. |title=The Comprehensive History of Assam |volume=II |pages=49–60 |publisher=Assam Publication Board |place=Guwahati |year=1992}}
* {{citation |last=Ramirez |first=Philippe |year=2007 |chapter=Politico-ritual variations on the Assamese fringes: Do social systems exist? |pages=91–107 |title=Social Dynamics in the Highlands of Southeast Asia Reconsidering Political Systems of Highland Burma |editor-first=Mandy |editor-last=Sadan |editor-first2=François |editor-last2=Robinne. |place=Boston |publisher=Brill}}
* {{cite journal|last1=Shin|first1=Jae-Eun|year=2020|title=Descending from demons, ascending to kshatriyas: Genealogical claims and political process in pre-modern Northeast India, The Chutiyas and the Dimasas|journal=The Indian Economic and Social History Review|volume=57|issue=1|pages=49–75|doi=10.1177/0019464619894134|s2cid=213213265}}


== External links ==
== External links ==
{{Wikivoyage|Dima Hasao}}
{{Wikivoyage|Dima Hasao}}
* [https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/ District Administration website]
* [https://dimahasao.assam.gov.in/ Dima Hasao District Official Website]


{{Geographic location
{{Geographic location

Latest revision as of 13:12, 2 March 2026

Dima Hasao district
District of Assam
Barail Range in Dima Hasao
Barail Range in Dima Hasao
Location in Assam
Location in Assam
Coordinates: 25°11′N 93°02′E / 25.18°N 93.03°E / 25.18; 93.03
Country India
StateAssam
DivisionCentral Assam
District created2 February 1970
HeadquartersHaflong
Government
 • TypeAutonomous district
 • BodyDima Hasao Autonomous Council
 • Chief Executive MemberDebolal Gorlosa, BJP
 • Lok Sabha constituenciesAutonomous District (shared with Karbi Anglong & West Karbi Anglong district)
 • Vidhan Sabha constituenciesHaflong
Area
 • Total4,890 km2 (1,890 sq mi)
 • Rank2
Elevation
513 m (1,683 ft)
Population
 (2011)
 • Total214,102
 • Density43.667/km2 (113.10/sq mi)
Languages
 • OfficialEnglish
 • Most spokenSee § Languages
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
788XXX
Telephone code91 - (0) 03673
ISO 3166 codeIN-AS
Vehicle registrationAS-08
Websitedimahasao.assam.gov.in

Dima Hasao district (/ˈdɪmə həˈsaʊ/), is an administrative district in the state of Assam, India. As of 2011, it is the least populous district of Assam.[1][2]

Dima Hasao district is one of two autonomous hill districts of Assam. The district headquarters Haflong is the only hill station in the state.[3]

Etymology[edit | edit source]

"Dima Hasao" means "Dimasa Hills" in the Dimasa language.[4]

History[edit | edit source]

Dimasa kingdom[edit | edit source]

Main article: Möng Mao

From c. 1500, Dima Hasao was part of the Dimasa Kingdom (or Kachar kingdom), with its capital at Maibang and Dimapur.[5][6][7] As per Ahom Buranji, the kingdom stretched from the Kopili river in present-day Nagaon district to the Dhansiri river in present-day Golaghat district. This included parts of Cachar and North Cachar (Dima Hasao), the districts of Hojai, Nagaon, Golaghat and Karbi Anglong of Assam and Dimapur district, in Nagaland.[8][9]

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Tularam Senapati's territory depicted in the map of British India created by W. G. Blackie in 1860
Map of Eastern Bengal and Assam created by J. G. Bartholomew in 1907. A part of Tularam's territory (stretching from Jamuna river to Lumding) was transferred to Sivasagar district and the rest (stretching from Lumding to Maibang) was transferred to Cachar district.

In the colonial period, Khaspur in present-day Cachar district was the administrative centre. However an internal schism led to the division of the old Kachar Kingdom into two parts. The last Dimasa king, Govinda Chandra Hasnusa, assigned Kashi Chandra the hilly tract of Kachar (i.e. the area between Mahur river and the Naga Hills in the south, the Doyang river on the west, the Dhansiri River on the east and Jamuna river in the north.) for administrative purposes. Soon the latter declared his independence over the hilly portion. That led to the treacherous murder of Kashi Chandra by Raja Govinda Chandra Hasnusa.[citation needed] Incensed, the son of Kashi Chandra, Tularam Senapati, incessantly created political turbulence, asserting his sovereignty over hilly portion of Kachar Kingdom. Finally, with British assistance, Tularam succeeded in carving out his own territory from Kachar Kingdom. David Scott, agent to the British Raj in 1829[10] made an arrangement to recognise Tularam as the ruler of hilly tract of Kachar. In 1850, Tularam died and the frequent Angami raids and a grave incident at Semkhor village paved the ground to extend British influence over Tularam's territory. In 1852, his territory was annexed and made part of the Nowgong district of British Assam as a subdivision, with Asalu as its headquarter.[11][Note 1][12][13]

British administration[edit | edit source]

In 1866, this sub-division was abolished and apportioned into three parts among the Cachar, Naga Hills district, and Nowgong district. The present area of the Dima Hasao district was included in the old Cachar district.[14][15] In 1880, this portion was constituted into a sub-division with headquarters at Gunjung under Cachar district.[12] This headquarters was shifted to Haflong in 1895. Since then, Haflong continued to be the headquarters till 1951.[12]

Since Indian independence[edit | edit source]

On 17 November 1951, United Mikir and North Cachar Hills District was created with area occupying present-day Dima Hasao district, Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong district.[4][16] On 2 February 1970, the government declared an independent administrative district, viz. North Cachar Hills District with the geographical boundary of present-day Dimapur Hasao district.[4] On 30 March 2010, the district was further renamed to Dima Hasao district.[17]

Geography[edit | edit source]

The district headquarters are located at Haflong. Dima Hasao district occupies an area of 4,888 square kilometres (1,887 sq mi),[18] It is the second-largest district of Assam after Karbi Anglong.[19][20] Dima Hasao District is surrounded by Karbi Anglong district and Nagaland on the northeast, Manipur on the east, Hojai District to the north, West Karbi Anglong district on the northwest, Meghalaya on the west and Cachar district in the south.[21]

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Historical population
YearPop.±% p.a.
190140,812—    
191127,296−3.94%
192128,913+0.58%
193132,844+1.28%
194137,361+1.30%
195139,663+0.60%
196154,319+3.19%
197176,047+3.42%
1991150,801+3.48%
2001188,079+2.23%
2011214,102+1.30%
source:[22]

Population[edit | edit source]

According to the 2011 census, Dima Hasao had a population of 214,102, giving it a ranking of 588th in India (out of a total of 640). The district had a population density of 44 inhabitants per square kilometre (110/sq mi). Its population growth rate over the decade 2001-2011 was 13.53%. Dima Hasao had a sex ratio of 931 females for every 1000 males and a literacy rate of 78.99%.[1]

Ethnic groups[edit | edit source]

Dima Hasao is one of the three hill districts in Assam with a tribal majority population, the others being Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong.[4] The tribal population in Dima Hasao accounts for about 70.92% of the total population of the district according to the 2011 census, the highest percentage in the state, including Dimasa Kachari, Zeme Naga, Hmar, Kuki, Karbi, Khasi, Hrangkhol and Biate.[23][4] Scheduled Castes are 2.02%.[19] Non-tribal communities includes Bengalis, Nepalis, Hindi-speakers and few other communities who have made the district their home.[23]

Religions in Dima Hasao district (2011)[24]
Religion Percent
Hinduism
 
 67.07%
Christianity
 
 29.57%
Islam
 
 2.04%
Others (Tribal religion)
 
 0.55%
Other or not stated
 
 0.77%

As of the 2011 census, 67.07% of the population are Hindus, 29.57% Christians and 2.04% Muslims.[24]

Ethnic Group Decadal
growth rate		 2001[25] 2011[26] Religion (2001) Religion (2011)
Total +13.83% 188,079 214,102 Hindu - 69.91% Hindu - 67.07%
Dimasa +14.83% 64,881 74,502 Hindu - 98.73% Hindu - 99.19%
Kuki +43.69% 16,757 24,079 Christian - 91.98%, Hindu - 7.56% Christian - 93.17%, Hindu - 6.03%
Naga +21.98% 17,078 20,832 Christian - 52.20%, Hindu - 43.72%, Animist - 3.43% Christian - 53.67%, Hindu - 40.46%, Animist - 5.14%
Hmar +8.7% 13,863 15,070 Christian - 98.71% Christian - 99.18%
Karbi +16.59% 7,973 9,296 Hindu - 63.18%, Christian - 36.52% Hindu - 50.77%, Christian - 48.69%
Khasi +17.89% 3,157 3,722 Christian - 95.31% Christian - 96.94%
Smaller tribes -8.6% 4,719 4,342 Christian - 59.00%, Hindu - 38.12% Christian - 62.92%, Hindu - 34.94%
Non-tribal +3.41% 59,651 61,686 Hindu - 86.57%, Muslim - 7.34%, Christian - 4.57% Hindu - 85.80%, Muslim - 6.50%, Christian - 5.57%

Languages[edit | edit source]

Languages of Dima Hasao (2011)[23]

  Dimasa (35.72%)
  Bengali (11.80%)
  Zeme (9.65%)
  Hmar (7.65%)
  Nepali (6.36%)
  Kuki (5.11%)
  Karbi (4.46%)
  Hindi (3.14%)
  Khasi (1.93%)
  Assamese (1.89%)
  Others (12.29%)

At the time of the 2011 census, 35.72% of the district spoke Dimasa, 11.80% Bengali, 9.65% Zeme, 7.65% Hmar, 6.36% Nepali, 5.11% Kuki, 4.46% Karbi, 3.14% Hindi, 1.93% Khasi, 1.89% Assamese.[23]

Government and politics[edit | edit source]

Politics[edit | edit source]

Main article: Dima Hasao Autonomous Council

Dima Hasao district is an autonomous district with Sixth Schedule status granted by the Constitution of India. The Dima Hasao District is administered by Dima Hasao Autonomous Council (DHADC). Members of the Autonomous Council (MAC) are elected by people of Dima Hasao. The Political party who has majority MACs form the ruling party. The Autonomous Council is a powerful body and almost all the department of government are under its control except the police and Law & Order is under Assam Government.[4]

Administration[edit | edit source]

Dima Hasao comprises three subdivisions: Haflong, Maibang, and Diyungbra. The district consists of five Community Development Blocks: Jatinga Valley, Mahur; Diyung Valley, Maibang; Harangajao ITD Block, Harangajao; Diyungbra ITD Block, Diyungmukh; and New Sangbar, Sangbar.[27]

Economy[edit | edit source]

In 2006, the Indian government named Dima Hasao one of the country's 250 most backward districts (out of a total of 640). It is one of the eleven districts in Assam currently receiving funds from the Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme (BRGF).[28]

Energy[edit | edit source]

Kopili Hydro Electric Project is a power project near Umrangso, involving two dams on Kopili river and Umrong nalla, a tributary of Kopili. There are two power stations as part of Kopili HEP, Khandong Stage I & II (75 MW) and Kopili Stage I & II (200 MW), with total output of 275 MW.[29]

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Place of interest[edit | edit source]

The village Jatinga is known for mysterious 'suicide of birds', between the months of September and November.[12][30] Large number of tourists visit that time of the year to witness the phenomenon.[12]

  • Panimur waterfall

Panimur is also located in the Dima Hasao district of Assam, India. It is most famous for the Panimur Waterfall, also known as the Niagara of Northeast,[31] which forms from the Kopili River as it flows over rocky terrain, creating a wide, cascading waterfall that is a major attraction for tourists and photographers.[32] Additionally, the surrounding areas offer unique opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities, making it a favourite among explorers.[33]

The town of Maibang is notable for its rock-cut temple carved out of a single black sandstone in triangular dimension. It houses the Hindu goddess Ranachandi or Mahamaya. The town was the capital of the Dimasa Kingdom in the 16th century.[12]

Notable for its hydroelectric power project and wildlife reserves, the town of Umrangso is a destination for sightseeing, fishing, camping and trekking. It is a popular resting place of the Amur falcon, and it also host the annual Falcon Festival for the same.

  • Garampani

The Garampani settlement, which is also known for its hot-springs, is situated 10 km from Umrangso.[12]

Education[edit | edit source]

Average literacy rate of Dima Hasao in 2011 were 77.54% compared to 67.62% of 2001. All schools of Dima Hasao are run by the state government or private organisations. English is the primary languages of instruction in most of the schools. The schools are recognised either by the Board of Secondary Education, Assam, the Assam Higher Secondary Education Council, or the Central Board of Secondary Education. All Dima Hasao colleges are affiliated to Assam University, a central university, which imparts education in both the general as well as professional streams.

College[edit | edit source]

Schools[edit | edit source]

Media[edit | edit source]

Television[edit | edit source]

Channel Year founded Language Owned by Ref
NDH (News Dima Hasao) Dimasa, Hindi, English Viraj Nag [1]
Assam Talks Assamese Mahmadhul Hussan
News Live Assamese Swadeep Hasam
News Time Assam Assamese Anup Biswas
Prag News Assamese
DY365 Assamese Samsul Alam
NKTV Assamese Monku Das
Hills Live TV
DD News English, Hindi and Assamese Suroj Barman
Pratidin Times Assamese Pankaj Tumung

Radio[edit | edit source]

  • All India Radio, Akashvani Haflong broadcasts from Haflong at 100.02 megahertz on FM band.

Notable place[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ In the given article published by Eastern Mirror, it has not been mentioned which area had been annexed to the Nowgong district as a subdivision in 1852. But, since Asalu has historically been a part of Tularam's territory, it can be implied that the same territory was annexed to the Nowgong district.

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 "District Census Handbook: Dima Hasao" (PDF). censusindia.gov.in. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. 2011.
  2. ↑ "District at a Glance | Dima Hasao District | Government of Assam, India".
  3. ↑ "Haflong: The only hill station in Assam". The Times of India. 21 October 2023. Retrieved 4 June 2024.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 "Dimahasao District - NC Hills Autonomous Council". Government Of Assam, India. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
  5. ↑ Shin 2020, p. 64.
  6. ↑ Shin 2020, p. 70.
  7. ↑ Bhattacharjee 1987, p. 222.
  8. ↑ Ramirez 2007, p. 93.
  9. ↑ Phukan 1992, p. 57.
  10. ↑ Rhodes, NG & Bose, SK. (2006) History of the Dimasa -Kachari As seen Through the coinage. Mira Bose: Dhubri (Assam).
  11. ↑ "Historical Demarcation of Nagaland-Assam Border - Eastern Mirror". easternmirrornagaland.com. 29 September 2021. Retrieved 28 May 2023.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 12.5 12.6 Assam Information. Directorate of Information & Public Relations. 1981. pp. 47–50.
  13. ↑ Stewart, Lieutenant R. "Notes on Northern Cachar (1855).
  14. ↑ Prakash, Col Ved (2007). Encyclopaedia of North-East India. Atlantic Publishers & Dist. p. 268,269. ISBN 978-81-269-0703-8.
  15. ↑ Gait, Edward Albert (9 January 2024). A History of Assam. Thacker, Spink & Company. p. 307.
  16. ↑ "District Profile of Karbi Anglong". Government Of Assam, India. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
  17. ↑ "Tribes in Assam hill district seek separate autonomous council". The Hindu. 11 January 2023. Retrieved 10 October 2024.
  18. ↑ Srivastava, Dayawanti (2010). "States and Union Territories: Assam: Government". India 2010: A Reference Annual (54th ed.). New Delhi, India: Additional Director General, Publications Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (India), Government of India. p. 1116. ISBN 978-81-230-1617-7.
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 "District Profile - Dimahasao District". Government Of Assam, India. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
  20. ↑ "Districts - Assam State Portal". assam.gov.in. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
  21. ↑ "Administrative Division Map of Assam (Census - 2011)". censusindia.gov.in. Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
  22. ↑ Decadal Variation In Population Since 1901
  23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 23.2 23.3 "Table C-16 Population By Mother Tongue: Assam". censusindia.gov.in. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. 2011. Retrieved 9 November 2023.
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 "Table C-01 Population By Religion: Assam". census.gov.in. Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India. 2011. Retrieved 9 November 2023.
  25. ↑ "WELCOME TO CENSUS OF INDIA : Census India Library".
  26. ↑ "Census of India Website : Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India".
  27. ↑ "Dima Hasao District". North Cachar Hills - Government of Assam. Archived from the original on 21 September 2019. Retrieved 19 September 2018.
  28. ↑ Ministry of Panchayati Raj (8 September 2009). "A Note on the Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme" (PDF). National Institute of Rural Development. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 April 2012. Retrieved 27 September 2011.
  29. ↑ "Kopili Hydro Electric Project". Water Resources Information System of India. Archived from the original on 20 February 2019. Retrieved 23 February 2019.
  30. ↑ "The Valley of Death: Jatinga, the Assam village, where birds are 'suicidal'". Firstpost. 29 August 2023. Retrieved 8 November 2023.
  31. ↑ "পানীমূৰ- নায়েগ্ৰা অৱ নর্থইষ্ট - Mahabahu.com". mahabahu.com. 20 June 2021. Retrieved 1 October 2024.
  32. ↑ "Panimur waterfall – The Niagara of Assam". Destination Assam. 1 October 2020. Retrieved 30 September 2024.
  33. ↑ "Eco-tourism in Assam: Exploring the natural wonders of Dima Hasao". Assam Tourism. 10 January 2024. Retrieved 1 October 2024.

Sources[edit | edit source]

  • Bhattacharjee, J B (1987). "The Economic Content of the Medieval State Formation Processes among the Dimasas of North East India". Proceedings of the Indian History Congress. 48: 222–225. ISSN 2249-1937. JSTOR 44141683.
  • Phukan, J. N. (1992), "Chapter III The Tai-Ahom Power in Assam", in Barpujari, H. K. (ed.), The Comprehensive History of Assam, vol. II, Guwahati: Assam Publication Board, pp. 49–60
  • Ramirez, Philippe (2007), "Politico-ritual variations on the Assamese fringes: Do social systems exist?", in Sadan, Mandy; Robinne., François (eds.), Social Dynamics in the Highlands of Southeast Asia Reconsidering Political Systems of Highland Burma, Boston: Brill, pp. 91–107
  • Shin, Jae-Eun (2020). "Descending from demons, ascending to kshatriyas: Genealogical claims and political process in pre-modern Northeast India, The Chutiyas and the Dimasas". The Indian Economic and Social History Review. 57 (1): 49–75. doi:10.1177/0019464619894134. S2CID 213213265.

External links[edit | edit source]

Template:Autonomous Areas of Northeast India

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