A&C dept on archaeological survey of historical sites

Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 18

Archaeological survey of historical sites and registration of antiquities constitute a main objective of the state’s department of Art & Culture. The department has recently taken up a joint Research Project with the Anthropological Society of Nagaland for extensive research on cultural history, ethnography, and physical characteristics of the Nagas of Nagaland, according to the annual administrative report of the department tabled at the recently concluded state assembly session.

Excavation of several historical sites has been made during the past two years, the report said adding that considerable progress has been achieved and the team is making every effort to try and cover all the tribes of Nagaland which will continue for some years. During 2008-09, two months excavation was undertaken at Phor, Laruri, and Mimi during December 2008 and January 2009. Altogether, three trenches were excavated at New Phor and Phor. Potsherds, bones, tools, stone implements and iron have been collected. Botanical evidences and megalithic remains have also been found, the report said.

Excavation has been carried out at the old habitation site of Laruri too. Evidences of the unique tradition of mortuary practices- Jar Burial have been found. 8 jar burials with bone specimens have been collected. The report also stated that six caves of Mimi in the Ophiolite geological belt have been explored, adding only one cave could be excavated so far.