Themes
tribal livelihood
Galo’s Livelihood, arunachal pradesh
The Galo tribe or Galong is located in the central eastern Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh. Being the offspring of the Tani group having descent from the forefather Abu Tani, they are ranked among the more progressive tribes of the region. They are mostly inhabited in West Siang, Leparada, Upper Subansiri, and Lower Siang districts. Their own language, Galo, which is newly evolved into a Roman-based script named Galoo Ennam, retains their Tibeto-Burman heritage and enhances their cultural identity.
The main source of livelihood of the Galo tribe is agriculture and animal husbandry. Though their traditional practice has been jhum (shifting cultivation), they mainly adopt terrace cultivation as a more sustainable means now. Proficient in bamboo basketry, bamboo is used by them for building homes, making domestic equipment, and furniture. Bamboo is an essential material, and the entire range, from containers to knife sheath, is produced by the tribe. Such a diversity speaks about their ability to utilize natural resources, especially bamboo, for their needs.
The Galos have a strong belief in natural elements, particularly the Sun-Moon god, Donyi-Polo. Their religious practices demonstrate animism and shamanism, with ceremonies conducted by the Nyibo (shaman) or Bos (priest). Traditional ceremonies such as Arr-Rinam and Ali-Ternam shield the community against epidemics by closing village entrances and limiting mobility. These customs, which include animal sacrifice to placate the gods, demonstrate their religion's purpose of guarding the community and keeping nature in harmony.
Even though the Galos are a progressive tribe, they struggle to maintain their customary practices in the face of modernization. As more shifts take place toward urban life, customary farming practices and cultural ceremonies stand the chance of disappearing. Inaccessible healthcare and education in the rural regions also contribute further to their development. Although the Galoo Ennam script assists in maintaining their language, the younger generation's use of mainstream cultures and languages threatens to destroy their cultural continuity and heritage preservation.
The Galo people use sustainable agriculture and forest conservation practices, applying traditional knowledge to new environmental requirements. By converting from jhum to terrace cultivation, they minimize soil erosion and ensure soil fertility. Bamboo, which is vital to their way of life, is harvested sustainably, balancing resource consumption with environmental protection. Through practices such as Arr-Rinam, they ensure public health during epidemics. These sustainability practices reflect their dedication to ecological balance and prudent resource use.