essay

The institution of nokmaship in Garo Hills: some observations

hill societies, their modernisation : a study of north east with special reference to garo hills • New Delhi • Published In 1995 • Pages: 76-81

By: Chakrabarti, S. B., Baruah, G..

Abstract

A brief but good account of the different kinds of leaders in Garo society. In much of the Garo literature, authority is identified with the role of NOKMA, or headman. This study distinguishes five different kinds of NOKMA, including respected intellectuals, wealthy individuals, religious specialists, and heads of clans. The last, called A'KING NOKMA, is the most important type, as he is considered the custodian of the clan lands. He also has responsibilities in entertaining visitors, being present at village functions, and adjudicating disputes. In colonial times the NOKMA was responsible for collecting taxes and reporting crimes. After independence, the district government took over some of the judicial, custodial, and and fiscal powers of the NOKMA, nevertheless he is still held in high esteem by villagers for his continued social and religious roles.

HRAF PubDate

1999

Region

Asia

Sub Region

South Asia

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard ; 1998

Field Date

not specified

Coverage Date

1880-1989

Coverage Place

Garo Hills Autonomous District, Meghalaya State, India

Notes

[S. B. Chakrabarti & G. Baruah]

Includes bibliographical references (p. 81)

LCCN

95910488

LCSH

Garo (Indic people)