GUWAHATI: India marked a historic moment as Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya were granted full statehood through the North Eastern Areas Reorganisation Act of 1971, on January 21, 1972. This day, now celebrated as Foundation Day, honors the region’s path towards unity and progress.
The reorganisation of India’s northeastern region in the early 1970s ushered in a transformative era, leading to the creation of these states. Tripura and Manipur, which were princely states that joined India in 1949 and became Union Territories in 1956, were granted statehood. Meghalaya, which had gained autonomy in 1969, transitioned from being a part of Assam to achieving full statehood.
The 53rd Foundation Day in 2025 will celebrate the achievements and cultural vibrancy of these states. Each state will host lively events, including parades, cultural performances, and public gatherings, showcasing their unique traditions and contributions to India’s progress. The celebrations honor their rich cultural heritage and historical journey, highlighting their essential role in India's diversity and development.
Tripura is 10,491 square kilometers in size and has a population mainly of Hindu Bengalis and 19 recognized tribes, with the largest group being the Kokborok-speaking community. Manipur is comparatively larger at 22,327 square kilometers and has various ethnic groups such as Meitei, Kuki, Naga, and Pangal, who mostly speak Sino-Tibetan languages.
Manipur, once under British rule, joined India in 1949 after Maharaja Budhachandra signed the Treaty of Accession. Meghalaya, also known as "the abode of clouds," spans 22,430 square kilometers and borders Assam and Bangladesh. Its capital, Shillong, is located in the Khasi Hills. The state is famous for its dense forests, which cover 70% of its area, and for being the wettest region in India. Khasi, Pnar, Garo, and English are the most commonly spoken languages.
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