Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, has a rich history of trade connections with its neighbors Bhutan, Tibet, and Assam. During the medieval period, these trade networks played a crucial role in shaping the region's economic and cultural landscape.
Links with Bhutan, Tibet, and Assam
Bhutan: Trade with Bhutan flowed through various passes across the Himalayas. The Monpas, Sherdukpens, and Membas tribes were actively involved in this trade. They exchanged goods such as textiles, handicrafts, and agricultural produce for Bhutanese goods like yak tails, woolen clothes, and salt.
Tibet: The Tibet trade was even more extensive, with several routes connecting Arunachal Pradesh to the Tibetan plateau. The Monpas and Sherdukpens were major players, while tribes like the Akas, Mijis, and Khamptis also participated. The primary items traded included Tibetan wool, salt, and turquoise for Arunachal's musk, medicinal plants, and handicrafts.
Assam: The Brahmaputra River served as a vital artery for trade with Assam. The plains of Assam provided access to a wider market for Arunachal's products, which were exchanged for Assamese silk, rice, and other commodities.
Goods Traded and Economic Exchanges
The trade with Bhutan, Tibet, and Assam involved a diverse range of goods.
Exports from Arunachal Pradesh:
Musk
Medicinal plants
Handicrafts (carpets, wooden bowls)
Agricultural produce (millet, maize)
Animal products (yak tails, hides)
Imports to Arunachal Pradesh:
Salt (from Tibet and Bhutan)
Wool and woolen clothes (from Tibet)
Textiles (from Assam and Bhutan)
Metal goods (from Assam)
Horses and yaks (from Tibet)
Tea (from Assam)
Economic Significance
These trade networks significantly impacted the economy of Arunachal Pradesh:
Source of livelihood: Trade provided a crucial source of livelihood for many tribes in Arunachal Pradesh, especially those residing in the border regions.
Access to essential commodities: It ensured access to essential commodities like salt, metal goods, and textiles, which were not readily available in the region.
Cultural exchange: The trade routes also facilitated cultural exchange between Arunachal Pradesh and its neighbors, leading to the exchange of ideas, traditions, and technologies. 1