Nagaland Statehood Day (Dec 1): History, Geography, and Significance of India’s 16th State

Nagaland celebrates its Statehood Day every year on December 1st. This day marks its official recognition as the 16th state of India in 1963, following the passage of the State of Nagaland Act, 1962. Statehood Day also coincides with the opening of the Hornbill Festival, known as the “Festival of Festivals.”

Nagaland Statehood Day (Dec 1): History, Geography, and Significance of India’s 16th State

Historical Journey of State Formation

Post-1947: The Naga-inhabited region was initially part of Assam.
Nationalist Movement: Rising sentiment among Naga tribes led to demands for autonomy and separation.
1957: The Naga Hills district of Assam and the Tuensang Frontier Division were merged under the Central government’s control.
1960: Agreement was reached for the creation of a full-fledged state within the Indian Union.
1963: Nagaland formally became the 16th state of India. The first elected government took office in 1964.

Geographical and Tribal Profile

Feature	Details
Location	Northeastern India
Boundaries	Arunachal Pradesh (NE), Assam (W), Manipur (S), Myanmar (E)
Capital	Kohima
Climate	Monsoonal (heavy rainfall from May to September)
Major Tribes	Nagaland is home to 16 major tribes, including Konyak (the largest), Ao, Angami, Sema, and Tangkhul.

Biodiversity and Economy

Nagaland is known for its lush hills and rich ecological wealth. Key protected areas include Intanki National Park and Singphan Wildlife Sanctuary. The Dzukou Valley is famous for its seasonal blooms.

State Animal: Mithun
State Bird: Blyth’s Tragopan
Economy: Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood, employing about 90% of the population. Rice is the main staple crop. Jhum cultivation (shifting cultivation) is a traditional farming method practiced here.

The Hornbill Festival

Duration: Held annually from December 1st to 10th.
Naming: Named after the Hornbill, a highly revered bird in Naga culture.
Purpose: Launched in 2000 to promote tourism, preserve, and showcase the distinct traditions, folk music, tribal dances, traditional sports, and indigenous cuisine of all 16 major Naga tribes.

Also Read

Question & Answer

Q1. Nagaland became the 16th state of India on which date?
A) November 1, 1963
B) December 1, 1963
C) January 26, 1964
D) December 10, 1963
Answer: B) December 1, 1963
Explanation: Nagaland was formally recognized as India’s 16th state on December 1, 1963, celebrated annually as Statehood Day.

Q2. Which country shares an international boundary with Nagaland to the East?
A) China
B) Bangladesh
C) Bhutan
D) Myanmar
Answer: D) Myanmar
Explanation: Nagaland lies in Northeast India and shares its eastern international border with Myanmar.

Q3. The famous Hornbill Festival of Nagaland, known as the “Festival of Festivals,” is held annually from:
A) November 20th to November 30th
B) December 1st to December 10th
C) January 1st to January 10th
D) October 1st to October 10th
Answer: B) December 1st to December 10th
Explanation: The Hornbill Festival begins on December 1st, coinciding with Statehood Day, and continues till December 10th.

Q4. Which one of the following is the State Bird of Nagaland?
A) Great Hornbill
B) Peacock
C) Blyth’s Tragopan
D) Rufous-necked Hornbill
Answer: C) Blyth’s Tragopan
Explanation: Blyth’s Tragopan (Tragopan blythii) is the State Bird of Nagaland, while the State Animal is the Mithun.

Q5. Which tribe is recognized as the largest major tribe in Nagaland?
A) Ao
B) Angami
C) Sema
D) Konyak
Answer: D) Konyak
Explanation: Out of Nagaland’s 16 major tribes, the Konyak tribe is the largest in population.

🔗 Other Useful Links:
📌 Latest Government Job Vacancies
📌 Latest Exam Results
📌 Free Mock Tests