Phakials and other minor Thai coimmunities of Assam

Migration of different ethnic groups, commonly referred to as tribals, to the north eastern region of India has been the subject of intense research. These groups, with their distinct socio-cultural and linguistic identity, have inspired detailed studies and also in depth research. Thus all the major groups like the Ahoms, the Nagas, the Mizos, the Garos, the Khasis, etc. had the benefit of fairly accurate and detailed documentation of their origin, routes of migration and reasons therefor. However, perhaps on account of the preoccupation of ethnographers with major tribal ethnic groups, some minor groups (in terms of numbers) have not had the opportunity to engage their attention. This volume is intended to throw light on some Thai-Buddhist communities of Assam except on Ahoms and the Khamtis who have already received attention. The minor Thai-Buddhist communities of Assam which form the thrust of this book are the Aitons, the Khamjangs, the Phakials and the Turungs.