Chandel District (formerly known as Tengnoupal District) came into existence on May 13th, 1974. This district is located in the south-eastern part of Manipur at 24 degree 40 minutes north latitude and 93 degree 50 minutes east longitude. It is the border district of the state. Its neighbours are Myanmar in the south, Ukhrul District in the east, Churachandpur District in the south and west, and Thoubal District in the north. It is about 64 km away from Imphal. National Highway No. 39 passes through this district. Moreh town, the international trade centre of the state, lies on the southernmost part of Chandel District. When the Trans-Asian Super Highway comes into existence, Chandel district will be one of the gateways to the Asian countries. It is a hill district with an area of 3,313 sq km.
Demography of Chandel District
As per Census 2001, the population of Chandel District is 1, 34,462 (Male 67,965 and Female 66,497) and, the literacy rate is 42.73 per cent (Male literacy rate is 48.77 per cent and Female literacy rate is 36.56 per cent). The density of population per sq km is 41. Chandel District is inhabited by several communities. It is sparsely inhabited by about 20 different tribes. They are scattered all over the district.
Prominent tribes in the district are Anal Tribals, Lamkang, Kuki, Moyon Tribe, Monsang Tribe, Chothe Tribe, Thadou Tribe, Paite Tribe, Maring Tribe and Zou Tribe. There are other communities also like Meiteis and Muslims (Meitei Pangal) in small percentage as compared to the tribes.
Administration of Chandel District
Administration of Chandel District is headed by the Deputy Commissioner. The administrative head of district is supported by Sub-Divisional Commissioners who are sectional heads like development, revenue and relief, etc. The Deputy Commissioner is also the District Magistrate. For administrative works, the Deputy Commissioner is supported by the Sub-Divisional Officers at the sub-division level. For maintaining Law and Order, the Superintendent of Police assists the Deputy Commissioner along with the Commanding Officer of 8th Manipur Rifles, Leikun.
Culture of Chandel District
Culture of Chandel District is mainly tribal in nature and several indigenous dance forms, fairs, festivals and dance forms. Paite Dance, Thadou Kuki Dance, Tarao War Dance are some of the popular traditional dances forms of the district. Each tribal group has their own distinct culture and tradition in their dance, music, dress, customary practices and beliefs. The folk dances of the ethnic tribes captivate the beholders with their exotic costumes and simple but graceful rhythm. Maring Tribe also inhabiting in this district are famous for their handicraft products. They are the main manufacturers of Likhai, Sangbai, Chengbon, Meruk (all containers), Morah (for sitting) and Long-up, Tengbol (for fishing), etc. which are prepared from cane and bamboo. Every tribal group has distinct style of embroidery patterns on their dress. The main festivals of the district are Anal Festivals, Thadou Festival, Kuki Festival, Naga Festival, Monsang Festival and Christmas.
Chandel District is a hilly district and it has varieties of flora and fauna. Various kinds of orchids, ornamental plants and even numerous plants are abundantly grown.
