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29th January 2025 (12 Topics)

Nicobarese tribe

Context

The Nicobarese tribe, indigenous to the Nicobar Islands in the eastern Indian Ocean, has long been a subject of interest for anthropologists due to their distinct genetic makeup and isolation from mainland populations. Recent studies have revealed new insights into their genetic origins, particularly their ties to Southeast Asian populations.

Key Findings

  • Genetic Link with Southeast Asia: The Nicobarese are found to share a close genetic relationship with the Austroasiatic-speaking populations of Southeast Asia, specifically the Htin Mal communities of Thailand-Laos.
    • This marks the first time detailed genetic analysis has been conducted to establish this connection.
  • Migration to Nicobar Islands: According to the study, the Nicobarese migrated to the Nicobar Islands around 4,500 to 5,000 years ago, during a period when Southeast Asians were already practicing agriculture.
    • Both men and women from these Southeast Asian communities migrated to the islands, bringing with them agricultural practices that led to population growth and territorial expansion.
  • Preservation of Genetic Lineage: The Nicobarese tribe has remained largely isolated from external influences for thousands of years, allowing them to preserve their genomic origins, language, and cultural identity.
    • This isolation has been crucial for maintaining their distinct genetic makeup, which has been studied using stable DNA markers that have remained unchanged over millennia.

Fact Box:

Nicobarese Tribe

  • The Nicobarese are an indigenous tribal community living on the Nicobar Islands, which are part of the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the eastern Indian Ocean.
  • This community is one of the prominent groups residing on the Nicobar group of islands.
  • Geographic Distribution: The internal diversity within the Nicobarese community is marked by four distinct cultural groups, which are centered on the following islands:
    • Car Nicobar
    • Chowra (Chaura), Bompoka (Bompooka), and Teressa
    • Katchal (Katchall), Nancowry, Kamorta (Camorta), and Trinket
    • Little Nicobar, Kondul, Pulo Milo (Pilomillow), and Great Nicobar
  • The Nicobarese are known for their distinct culture, genetic lineage, and long-standing isolation from mainland India.
  • The Nicobarese tribe consists of approximately 25,000 people, residing in dense forests on the Nicobar Islands.
  • Their livelihood largely revolves around pig rearing, goat farming, and gathering forest products like coconut palm.
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