The Khasi tribe is one of the foremost indigenous groups in the other northeastern states of Meghalaya. They are a century-old land cultivate and forest-trade-related traditions. Many traditional implements exist; one that stands out is the Iron Dao for its versatility in agriculture and forestry. It consists in essence of a long wooden shaft gripped by the user and an iron blade for cutting. The anterior end of the blade is somewhat broad and slightly curved to slice through vegetation, soft woods, and general agricultural materials with maximum effectiveness. Cane straps tightly wound around this shaft, just below the iron ferrule, where the latter secures the blade in place, enhance grip and endurance.
The dao serves a variety of purposes in the clearing of fields, cutting branches, chopping wood, and preparing plots for cereals cultivation. All this makes it highly applicable in the rugged areas and thick energy of Meghalaya. Unlike the modern implements, the Khasi dao is almost always handcrafted, and the skill has been transmitted through generations of blacksmiths.The knife thus symbolizes sustainable methods wherewith the Khasi tribe's indigenous ingenuity also stems from a synergetic relationship with nature. Iron dao, along with the tool of cultivation, symbolizes the cultural identity and self-sufficiency of the Khasi people.