Ethnic Composition and Racial Groups of North-East India
Ethnic Composition of North-East India: Racial Groups & Early History
Course: History of North-East India: From Early Kingdoms to Modern Integration
Module I: Geographical, Ethnic, and Cultural Foundations of North-East India
Timeline / Era Covered: Prehistory – Early Historic Background (Before 4th Century CE)
Lesson: Ethnic Composition and Racial Groups of North-East India
This lesson is systematically organized into four clearly structured sections, as detailed below:
- Chronologically Structured Study Module
- Short-Answer Type Questions
- Long-Answer Type Questions
- Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers and Detailed Explanations
Introduction: Ethnicity as the Core of North-East Indian History
The history of North-East India is inseparable from its extraordinary ethnic diversity. Unlike many other regions of the Indian subcontinent, where large-scale political unification occurred relatively early, North-East India evolved through the coexistence of multiple ethnic, linguistic, and cultural groups over long periods of time. This diversity is not accidental; it is the product of geography, migration, ecological adaptation, and historical isolation.
From prehistoric times to the early historic period (before the 4th century CE), the region witnessed successive waves of human movement and settlement. These groups did not merge into a single homogeneous population. Instead, they retained distinct racial traits, languages, customs, and social institutions. Understanding the ethnic composition and racial groups of North-East India is therefore essential for interpreting its early social organisation, political patterns, and cultural history.
This chronologically structured study module examines the major racial and ethnic groups of North-East India, the routes and phases of migration, and the historical processes that shaped the region’s plural society. The content is developed strictly in alignment with competitive examination requirements and academic syllabi.
I. Concept of Ethnicity and Racial Classification in Historical Studies
Ethnicity refers to shared cultural characteristics such as language, customs, traditions, social institutions, and a sense of common identity. In historical studies, racial classification has often been used (especially in colonial and early anthropological writings) to describe broad physical and biological traits of populations. While modern scholarship emphasises culture and language over race, racial terminology remains relevant for understanding historical interpretations of North-East India.
In the context of North-East India, ethnic identity is shaped by:
- Migration history
- Ecological adaptation
- Clan and kinship systems
- Linguistic affiliation
The region’s ethnic mosaic developed gradually from prehistoric times and remained largely intact due to limited political centralisation.
II. Geographical Factors Influencing Ethnic Diversity
The ethnic diversity of North-East India is closely linked to its physical geography. Mountains, hills, river valleys, and dense forests created natural compartments that limited interaction between communities.
Key geographical influences include:
- The Eastern Himalayas restricting movement from the north
- Hill ranges such as Patkai and Naga Hills encouraging isolation
- River valleys like the Brahmaputra supporting larger settlements
As a result, communities evolved independently, preserving distinct ethnic identities over centuries.
III. Major Racial and Ethnic Groups of North-East India
Anthropological and historical studies broadly classify the people of North-East India into three major racial-ethnic groups based on prehistoric and early historic migrations.
1. Mongoloid (Tibeto-Burman) Groups
The largest and most widespread ethnic component of North-East India belongs to the Mongoloid racial stock, particularly Tibeto-Burman-speaking groups.
Origins and Migration
These groups are believed to have migrated from regions of Tibet, southern China, and Southeast Asia through eastern Himalayan passes and hill corridors during prehistoric times.
Areas of Settlement
They predominantly inhabit:
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Nagaland
- Manipur
- Mizoram
- Hill regions of Assam and Meghalaya
Cultural Characteristics
- Clan-based social organisation
- Strong kinship ties
- Village councils and customary laws
- Shifting cultivation (jhum) as the dominant economic practice
Historically, these groups maintained political autonomy and resisted external domination due to their difficult terrain and strong community structures.
2. Austroasiatic Groups
The Austroasiatic racial-ethnic group represents one of the earliest layers of human settlement in North-East India.
Origins and Antiquity
Austroasiatic groups are believed to have entered the region from Southeast Asia during prehistoric times. Their presence indicates very early human habitation.
Areas of Settlement
They are mainly concentrated in:
- Meghalaya, especially among the Khasi, Jaintia, and Pnar communities
Distinctive Features
- Mon-Khmer linguistic affiliation
- Matrilineal social system among the Khasi and Jaintia
- Strong village-level organisation
- Sacred groves and nature-based belief systems
The Austroasiatic groups provide crucial evidence for understanding early cultural evolution in the region.
3. Indo-Aryan Groups
The Indo-Aryan element in North-East India is relatively later compared to Mongoloid and Austroasiatic groups.
Historical Entry
Indo-Aryan groups gradually entered the Brahmaputra Valley from eastern India during the early historic period.
Areas of Settlement
They primarily settled in:
- The Brahmaputra Valley of Assam
- Parts of the Barak Valley
Cultural Contributions
- Introduction of plough agriculture
- Use of Indo-Aryan languages
- Development of early state systems
- Interaction with local tribal societies
Rather than replacing existing populations, Indo-Aryan groups interacted and assimilated with earlier inhabitants, contributing to composite cultures.
IV. Chronological Phases of Ethnic Formation
1. Prehistoric Phase
- Initial settlement by Austroasiatic and early Mongoloid groups
- Hunter-gatherer and early agricultural communities
- Development of clan-based societies
2. Protohistoric Phase
- Expansion of Tibeto-Burman groups into hills and valleys
- Greater linguistic diversification
- Formation of distinct tribal identities
3. Early Historic Phase (Before 4th Century CE)
- Arrival of Indo-Aryan influences in river valleys
- Interaction between tribal and non-tribal societies
- Beginning of early political formations
These phases highlight that ethnic diversity evolved over long periods rather than emerging suddenly.
V. Linguistic Diversity as an Expression of Ethnicity
Language is a key marker of ethnic identity in North-East India.
Major language families include:
- Tibeto-Burman languages (dominant across the region)
- Austroasiatic languages (Khasi-Jaintia group)
- Indo-Aryan languages (Assamese and related dialects)
The survival of multiple language families reflects historical isolation and limited cultural homogenisation.
VI. Social Organisation and Ethnic Identity
Ethnic groups in North-East India developed distinct social systems shaped by environment and history.
Hill Societies
- Clan and lineage-based organisation
- Village councils
- Customary laws
- Strong sense of collective identity
Valley Societies
- More stratified social structures
- Agrarian economy
- Early forms of political authority
These differences contributed to varied historical experiences across the region.
VII. Ethnic Diversity and Political Developments
Before the 4th century CE, political organisation remained largely decentralised.
Reasons include:
- Ethnic fragmentation
- Geographical barriers
- Absence of large-scale surplus
Early political units emerged mainly in fertile valleys, while hill societies retained autonomy.
VIII. Historical Significance of Ethnic Composition
The ethnic composition of North-East India had long-term historical consequences:
- Preservation of cultural plurality
- Resistance to imperial control
- Strong regional and tribal identities
- Gradual and negotiated political integration
These characteristics continued to influence the region’s medieval and modern history.
IX. Relevance for Competitive and Academic Examinations
For examinations such as APSC, State PSCs, TETs, CTET, UGC-NET, CUET, and university history papers, this lesson is crucial because:
- It explains the roots of ethnic diversity
- It links geography with social history
- It provides analytical depth for long answers
Questions on migration, ethnicity, and cultural plurality frequently appear in both objective and descriptive formats.
Conclusion: Ethnic Plurality as the Foundation of North-East Indian History
The ethnic composition and racial groups of North-East India are the result of prehistoric migrations, geographical isolation, and long-term cultural continuity. Mongoloid, Austroasiatic, and Indo-Aryan groups did not erase one another but interacted in complex ways, creating one of the most diverse cultural landscapes in South Asia.
Understanding this ethnic foundation is essential for interpreting the region’s early history, social institutions, and political developments. For students and aspirants, this lesson provides a comprehensive framework to analyse North-East India not as a peripheral region, but as a historically dynamic and culturally rich zone shaped by human diversity over millennia.
Short Answer Type Questions (with Answers)
Lesson: Ethnic Composition and Racial Groups of North-East India
Module I: Geographical, Ethnic, and Cultural Foundations of North-East India
Timeline: Prehistory – Early Historic Background (Before 4th Century CE)
1. What is meant by ethnic composition in the context of North-East India?
Answer: Ethnic composition refers to the presence of diverse human groups distinguished by language, culture, customs, and historical origin.
2. Why is North-East India considered ethnically diverse?
Answer: Because multiple racial and linguistic groups settled in the region at different times and remained culturally distinct due to geographical isolation.
3. Name the three major racial-ethnic groups of North-East India.
Answer: Mongoloid (Tibeto-Burman), Austroasiatic, and Indo-Aryan groups.
4. Which racial group forms the largest population in North-East India?
Answer: The Mongoloid or Tibeto-Burman racial group.
5. From where did the Tibeto-Burman groups migrate?
Answer: From Tibet, southern China, and Southeast Asia through eastern Himalayan corridors.
6. Name two states dominated by Tibeto-Burman ethnic groups.
Answer: Nagaland and Mizoram.
7. Which ethnic group is considered among the earliest inhabitants of North-East India?
Answer: Austroasiatic groups.
8. Where are Austroasiatic communities mainly concentrated today?
Answer: In Meghalaya, especially among Khasi and Jaintia groups.
9. Which linguistic family is associated with Austroasiatic groups?
Answer: The Mon–Khmer language family.
10. What unique social system is followed by the Khasi community?
Answer: Matrilineal social system.
11. When did Indo-Aryan groups begin entering North-East India?
Answer: During the early historic period, before the 4th century CE.
12. Which region became the main centre of Indo-Aryan settlement?
Answer: The Brahmaputra Valley of Assam.
13. What cultural contributions did Indo-Aryan groups bring?
Answer: Plough agriculture, Indo-Aryan languages, and early forms of state organisation.
14. How did geography influence ethnic diversity in the region?
Answer: Mountains and forests isolated communities, allowing them to develop distinct cultures and identities.
15. What type of social organisation was common among hill tribes?
Answer: Clan- and lineage-based social organisation.
16. Which economic practice was dominant among hill-based ethnic groups?
Answer: Shifting cultivation (jhum).
17. How did ethnic diversity affect political centralisation?
Answer: It limited political unification and encouraged decentralised political structures.
18. What role did river valleys play in ethnic interaction?
Answer: River valleys facilitated interaction, trade, and cultural exchange among different groups.
19. Why did tribal autonomy persist for long periods in North-East India?
Answer: Due to difficult terrain, strong ethnic identity, and self-sufficient economies.
20. What is meant by protohistoric phase in ethnic formation?
Answer: A transitional phase marked by expanding tribal identities and linguistic diversification before written records.
21. How is language linked to ethnic identity in North-East India?
Answer: Language acts as a marker of common origin, culture, and group identity.
22. Why did ethnic groups not fully assimilate into a single culture?
Answer: Geographical isolation and strong clan traditions prevented complete assimilation.
23. Which ethnic group mainly inhabited hill regions?
Answer: Tibeto-Burman (Mongoloid) groups.
24. What was the impact of ethnic composition on early political development?
Answer: It led to the emergence of small chiefdoms rather than large empires.
25. How did early ethnic foundations influence later history of North-East India?
Answer: They ensured lasting cultural diversity, strong regional identities, and gradual political integration.
26. Why is the study of ethnic composition important for competitive exams?
Answer: Many historical developments in North-East India are directly linked to ethnicity, migration, and culture.
27. What distinguishes North-East India from other regions of India ethnically?
Answer: The dominance of Tibeto-Burman and Austroasiatic groups alongside Indo-Aryan influences.
28. How does this lesson help in understanding social history?
Answer: It explains the origins of tribal institutions, customs, and cultural plurality.
These short answer questions with precise answers are fully aligned with the lesson objectives, module structure, and course framework, and are ideal for APSC, State PSCs, TETs, CTET, UGC-NET, CUET, SSC, and university-level examinations on the history of North-East India.
Long Answer Type Questions (with Answers)
Lesson: Ethnic Composition and Racial Groups of North-East India
Module I: Geographical, Ethnic, and Cultural Foundations of North-East India
Timeline: Prehistory – Early Historic Background (Before 4th Century CE)
1. Discuss the significance of studying ethnic composition in understanding the early history of North-East India.
Answer:
The study of ethnic composition is crucial for understanding the early history of North-East India because the region’s social, cultural, and political development was shaped primarily by diverse ethnic groups rather than by early empires or centralized states. From prehistoric times, successive migrations brought different racial and linguistic communities into the region. Due to geographical isolation caused by mountains, hills, and forests, these groups retained distinct identities. Ethnic composition explains the persistence of tribal institutions, decentralised political structures, and cultural plurality that distinguish North-East India from other parts of the subcontinent.
2. Examine the role of geography in shaping ethnic diversity in North-East India.
Answer:
Geography played a determining role in shaping ethnic diversity in North-East India. The Eastern Himalayas, Patkai and Naga Hills, dense forests, and deep river valleys restricted large-scale movement and interaction. These natural barriers allowed communities to develop independently, preserving unique languages, customs, and social systems. While river valleys like the Brahmaputra facilitated limited interaction, hill regions remained relatively isolated. As a result, ethnic groups did not merge into a homogeneous population, leading to the remarkable diversity seen in the region.
3. Describe the Mongoloid (Tibeto-Burman) racial group and its historical importance in North-East India.
Answer:
The Mongoloid or Tibeto-Burman racial group constitutes the largest ethnic component of North-East India. These groups migrated from Tibet, southern China, and Southeast Asia through eastern Himalayan corridors during prehistoric times. They settled mainly in hill regions and developed clan-based societies governed by customary laws and village councils. Their reliance on shifting cultivation and strong kinship ties enabled them to maintain political autonomy. Historically, Tibeto-Burman groups shaped the social and cultural foundations of much of the region.
4. Analyse the contribution of Austroasiatic groups to the ethnic history of North-East India.
Answer:
Austroasiatic groups represent one of the earliest layers of human settlement in North-East India. Concentrated mainly in Meghalaya, particularly among the Khasi and Jaintia communities, they are linguistically linked to the Mon–Khmer family. Their matrilineal social system, village-based organisation, and nature-centric beliefs provide valuable insights into early social evolution. The survival of Austroasiatic groups highlights the antiquity and continuity of human habitation in the region.
5. Discuss the Indo-Aryan element in the ethnic composition of North-East India.
Answer:
The Indo-Aryan element entered North-East India relatively later, mainly during the early historic period. These groups settled largely in the Brahmaputra Valley of Assam, introducing plough agriculture, Indo-Aryan languages, and early forms of political organisation. Rather than displacing indigenous populations, Indo-Aryan groups interacted and assimilated with local communities, contributing to composite cultures and laying the foundation for early state formation.
6. Trace the chronological phases of ethnic formation in North-East India.
Answer:
Ethnic formation in North-East India occurred over three broad phases. The prehistoric phase witnessed early Austroasiatic and Mongoloid settlements with hunting-gathering economies. The protohistoric phase saw the expansion of Tibeto-Burman groups and increasing linguistic diversification. The early historic phase, before the 4th century CE, marked the entry of Indo-Aryan influences into river valleys and the beginning of interaction between tribal and non-tribal societies. Together, these phases shaped the region’s complex ethnic mosaic.
7. Explain how migration shaped the ethnic composition of North-East India.
Answer:
Migration was the primary factor shaping ethnic composition in North-East India. Different groups entered the region through mountain passes and river corridors at different times. Due to geographical fragmentation, these migrants settled in separate ecological niches and developed distinct identities. Migration did not result in cultural uniformity but in layered diversity, with older ethnic groups coexisting alongside newer ones.
8. Discuss the relationship between language and ethnicity in North-East India.
Answer:
Language is a key marker of ethnic identity in North-East India. The region hosts multiple language families, including Tibeto-Burman, Austroasiatic, and Indo-Aryan. Linguistic diversity reflects migration history and long-term isolation of communities. The survival of numerous tribal languages indicates limited cultural homogenisation and strong ethnic consciousness.
9. Analyse the social organisation of hill-based ethnic groups.
Answer:
Hill-based ethnic groups in North-East India developed clan- and lineage-based social organisation. Authority rested with village councils and customary institutions rather than centralised rulers. Social life was closely tied to kinship, collective land use, and shared rituals. This system promoted equality within clans and reinforced ethnic solidarity.
10. How did ethnic diversity affect political development before the 4th century CE?
Answer:
Ethnic diversity limited political centralisation in North-East India before the 4th century CE. Multiple ethnic groups with strong local identities resisted integration into large political units. As a result, political organisation remained decentralised, with small chiefdoms and autonomous tribal units dominating the landscape.
11. Discuss the role of river valleys in ethnic interaction and assimilation.
Answer:
River valleys such as the Brahmaputra facilitated interaction between different ethnic groups by providing routes for movement, trade, and communication. These interactions led to limited assimilation, especially between Indo-Aryan settlers and indigenous communities. However, complete cultural uniformity did not occur due to continued geographical and social barriers.
12. Examine the impact of environment on ethnic lifestyles and occupations.
Answer:
Environmental conditions shaped ethnic lifestyles in North-East India. Hill communities practiced shifting cultivation and forest-based subsistence, while valley communities engaged in wet rice agriculture. These ecological adaptations reinforced ethnic distinctions and influenced settlement patterns and social organisation.
13. Why did tribal autonomy persist for long periods in North-East India?
Answer:
Tribal autonomy persisted due to difficult terrain, self-sufficient economies, strong ethnic identity, and limited external intervention. These factors enabled communities to govern themselves through customary institutions.
14. Discuss matriliny among Austroasiatic groups and its historical significance.
Answer:
Matriliny among Khasi and Jaintia communities involved inheritance through the female line. This system reflects early social experiments and adaptation to ecological and social conditions. It distinguishes Austroasiatic groups from most other Indian societies and highlights cultural diversity.
15. Compare the ethnic composition of North-East India with that of the Indo-Gangetic plains.
Answer:
While the Indo-Gangetic plains experienced early cultural homogenisation and empire-building, North-East India remained ethnically diverse with decentralised societies. Geography and migration patterns explain this contrast.
16. Assess the long-term historical impact of early ethnic foundations.
Answer:
Early ethnic foundations resulted in lasting cultural plurality, strong tribal identities, and gradual political integration. These features continued to influence medieval and modern history.
17. How did ethnic composition influence resistance to external control?
Answer:
Strong ethnic identity and cohesive social structures enabled communities to resist external domination and preserve autonomy.
18. Discuss the relevance of ethnic studies for competitive examinations on North-East India.
Answer:
Ethnic studies explain social, cultural, and political developments and are frequently tested in objective and descriptive questions in competitive exams.
19. Explain the concept of protohistoric phase in ethnic history.
Answer:
The protohistoric phase represents a transitional stage marked by expanding tribal identities and increasing interaction before written records.
20. Conclude by evaluating ethnicity as a foundation of North-East Indian history.
Answer:
Ethnicity forms the foundation of North-East Indian history. The region’s development was shaped not by early empires but by diverse ethnic groups adapting to environment and interacting over time. Understanding ethnicity is essential for a holistic interpretation of the region’s past.
These long answer questions with analytical answers are fully aligned with the lesson, module objectives, and course framework, and are highly suitable for APSC, State PSCs, UGC-NET, CUET, TETs, CTET, and university-level examinations focusing on the history and anthropology of North-East India.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers & Explanations
Lesson: Ethnic Composition and Racial Groups of North-East India
Module I: Geographical, Ethnic, and Cultural Foundations of North-East India
Timeline: Prehistory – Early Historic Background (Before 4th Century CE)
1. Which factor most strongly explains the ethnic diversity of North-East India?
A. Early imperial unification
B. Extensive maritime trade
C. Geographical isolation and migration
D. Uniform agricultural practices
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Mountain ranges, dense forests, and river valleys created isolated ecological niches. Combined with successive migrations, this prevented cultural homogenisation and preserved diversity.
2. The largest racial-ethnic group in North-East India belongs to which stock?
A. Indo-Aryan
B. Dravidian
C. Mongoloid (Tibeto-Burman)
D. Mediterranean
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Most hill and frontier communities belong to Tibeto-Burman groups, reflecting prehistoric migrations from East and Southeast Asia.
3. Tibeto-Burman groups are believed to have migrated mainly from:
A. Central Asia
B. Southern India
C. Tibet, southern China, and Southeast Asia
D. Western Asia
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Linguistic and anthropological evidence links Tibeto-Burman peoples to East and Southeast Asian regions.
4. Which state is predominantly inhabited by Tibeto-Burman ethnic groups?
A. Nagaland
B. West Bengal
C. Bihar
D. Odisha
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Nagaland’s population largely consists of Tibeto-Burman-speaking tribal communities with strong clan traditions.
5. Which ethnic group is considered among the earliest settlers of North-East India?
A. Indo-Aryan
B. Tibeto-Burman
C. Austroasiatic
D. Persian
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Austroasiatic groups represent an early prehistoric layer of settlement, predating Indo-Aryan influences.
6. Austroasiatic groups in North-East India are mainly concentrated in:
A. Assam
B. Meghalaya
C. Manipur
D. Tripura
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Khasi, Jaintia, and Pnar communities of Meghalaya belong to the Austroasiatic linguistic family.
7. Which linguistic family is associated with the Khasi and Jaintia communities?
A. Indo-Aryan
B. Tibeto-Burman
C. Dravidian
D. Mon–Khmer (Austroasiatic)
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
The Khasi-Jaintia languages are part of the Mon–Khmer branch of the Austroasiatic family.
8. A distinctive social feature of Khasi society is:
A. Patriliny
B. Caste hierarchy
C. Matriliny
D. Feudal land system
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Inheritance and lineage among the Khasi pass through the female line, a unique feature in the Indian context.
9. Indo-Aryan groups entered North-East India mainly during:
A. Prehistoric period
B. Protohistoric phase
C. Early historic period
D. Medieval period
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Indo-Aryan migration into the Brahmaputra Valley intensified during the early historic phase.
10. Indo-Aryan settlement was primarily concentrated in:
A. Hill tracts
B. Dense forests
C. River valleys
D. Mountain passes
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Plough agriculture required fertile plains, making river valleys ideal for Indo-Aryan settlement.
11. Which cultural element was introduced by Indo-Aryan groups?
A. Shifting cultivation
B. Stone tool technology
C. Plough agriculture
D. Matrilineal inheritance
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Indo-Aryan settlers introduced plough-based wet rice cultivation and agrarian institutions.
12. Why did ethnic groups in North-East India not fully assimilate into a single culture?
A. Constant warfare
B. Uniform political control
C. Geographical barriers
D. Religious intolerance
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Mountains and forests restricted interaction, allowing communities to retain distinct identities.
13. Clan-based social organisation is most closely associated with:
A. Valley agrarian societies
B. Hill tribal societies
C. Urban centres
D. Coastal communities
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Hill tribes organised society around kinship and lineage rather than central authority.
14. Which economic practice dominated among hill-based ethnic groups?
A. Industrial production
B. Terrace farming
C. Shifting cultivation (jhum)
D. Plantation agriculture
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Shifting cultivation suited forested hills and low population density.
15. The protohistoric phase of ethnic formation is best described as:
A. Fully documented historical period
B. Transitional stage before written records
C. Period of imperial rule
D. Age of urbanisation
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The protohistoric phase shows increasing social complexity without extensive written evidence.
16. Which factor limited early political centralisation in North-East India?
A. Lack of population
B. Ethnic homogeneity
C. Strong caste system
D. Ethnic fragmentation and terrain
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
Multiple ethnic groups and difficult terrain prevented large, unified states.
17. River valleys contributed to ethnic history mainly by:
A. Isolating communities
B. Preventing migration
C. Facilitating interaction
D. Eliminating tribal identity
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Valleys served as corridors for movement, trade, and cultural exchange.
18. Which statement best explains tribal autonomy in North-East India?
A. Foreign support
B. Centralised armies
C. Self-sufficient economies and terrain
D. Early industrial growth
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Ecological self-reliance and geographical protection helped tribes remain autonomous.
19. Language diversity in North-East India indicates:
A. Cultural decline
B. Migration and isolation
C. Absence of society
D. Late settlement
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Multiple language families reflect layered migrations and long-term separation of communities.
20. Which group mainly inhabited the hill regions historically?
A. Indo-Aryan
B. Austroasiatic only
C. Tibeto-Burman
D. Mediterranean
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Tibeto-Burman groups adapted well to hill ecology and dominate upland regions.
21. Ethnic diversity had what impact on early political units?
A. Formation of large empires
B. Centralised bureaucracy
C. Emergence of small chiefdoms
D. Abolition of governance
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Political authority remained local and decentralised due to strong ethnic identities.
22. Which feature distinguishes North-East India from the Indo-Gangetic plains?
A. Early urbanisation
B. Cultural uniformity
C. Ethnic plurality
D. Absence of agriculture
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Unlike the plains, North-East India retained multiple ethnic and cultural traditions.
23. Matriliny among Austroasiatic groups suggests:
A. Foreign rule
B. Ecological and social adaptation
C. Decline of patriarchy everywhere
D. Urban dominance
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Matrilineal systems evolved as adaptive social structures suited to local conditions.
24. The ethnic history of North-East India shows continuity because:
A. No migration occurred
B. Cultures were forcibly unified
C. Communities preserved traditions
D. External rule eliminated diversity
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Isolation and customary institutions allowed traditions to persist over centuries.
25. Which statement best summarises ethnic formation in North-East India?
A. Single migration created uniform culture
B. Continuous wars shaped society
C. Multiple migrations created layered diversity
D. Colonial rule created ethnicity
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Successive migrations and ecological separation produced a complex, layered ethnic landscape.
These MCQs with detailed, concept-clearing explanations are fully aligned with the lesson objectives, module structure, and course framework, and are ideal for APSC, State PSCs, UGC-NET, CUET, TETs, CTET, SSC, and university-level examinations on the history and anthropology of North-East India.