The Galo tribe, also known as Galong, is an eastern Himalayan community in Arunachal Pradesh. They trace their roots to the Tani group, descending from their ancestor Abu Tani. Known for progressive values, the Galos primarily inhabit West Siang, Leparada, Upper Subansiri, and Lower Siang districts. The Galo language, a Tibeto-Burman language, now has a Roman script called Galoo Ennam. The tribe’s cultural identity is enriched through its language, history, and traditional practices.

The Galos emphasize community-based practices, especially in agriculture and protection rituals. Their shift from jhum to terrace cultivation is often managed as a communal effort, ensuring sustainable farming. During times of epidemic, they practice Arr-Rinam and Ali-Ternam, sealing village entry points and restricting movement to safeguard the community. This tradition of shared responsibility shows their commitment to communal welfare. Animal sacrifices and collective rituals reinforce social bonds and protect their villages, highlighting their communitarian culture.

Galo customs foster respect for all elders and roles within the tribe. Rituals and public gatherings are held under the supervision of the Nyibo (shaman) and the Bos (priest). Such a social order maintains a hierarchical structure wherein leaders and elders are charged with guarding cultural traditions and the welfare of the community. Their social arrangement encourages cooperation and community-building, ensuring that customary laws and practices are preserved through the generations.

The Galo tribe is characterized by animistic and shamanistic trends that revolve around the Sun-Moon deity, Donyi-Polo. Their reverence for nature manifests their spiritual connection to their land. Arr-Rinam and Ali-Ternam are evidences of maintaining the well-being of the community. The Nyibo occupies an all-important place in the direction of these rituals, along with animal sacrifice to appease the deities. These values and beliefs signify respect for nature and interdependence within the community.

Strong social bonds and recognition from the clan and society are generated through the communitarian practices of the Galo tribe. When there is an epidemic, the rituals performed in the community contribute significantly toward assisting the healthy spirit of the community and maintaining the integrity of their tradition. The process of shifting to terrace cultivation supports their readiness and commitment for sustainability. These traditions are characterized by their amalgamation of beliefs and actions that cater to both adaptation with the challenges and anchorage of cultural heritage.