Arunachal

Arunachal, officially Arunachal Pradesh, is a state in the northeastern region of India. It is the country’s northeastern-most state, bordered by Bhutan to the west, Myanmar to the east, and the Chinese province of Tibet/People’s Republic of China to the north; to the south lies the Indian state of Assam. The state capital is Itanagar.

Geography and environment: Arunachal sits in the Eastern Himalayas and comprises high mountains, deep valleys, and extensive forests. The terrain includes famous regions such as Tawang and various river basins that feed the Brahmaputra system. Elevation and climate vary widely, producing habitats from subtropical zones in the south to alpine conditions in the higher reaches. The region is noted for its biodiversity and numerous indigenous communities.

History and politics: The name Arunachal Pradesh means “land of the dawn-lit mountains.” The area has been subject to border disputes with China, most notably around the McMahon Line after the 1962 Sino-Indian War. It was organized under Indian administration after independence and attained statehood on 20 February 1987. The state has a unicameral Legislative Assembly and a government headed by a chief minister and a governor, with Itanagar as the administrative capital.

Demographics and culture: The population comprises many indigenous groups, including Nyishi, Adi, Apatani, Monpa, Mishmi, Wancho, and others. Languages from the Tibeto-Burman family are widely spoken, and traditional religious practices coexist with Christianity and Buddhism in various communities. The cultural landscape is marked by diverse festivals, crafts, and dietary traditions rooted in local ecology.

Economy and infrastructure: The economy is primarily based on agriculture, horticulture (notably apples and citrus), and forestry, with growing attention to hydropower potential. Road and air connectivity have improved, linking the state with Assam and other regions, while rail access remains limited.