The state of Arunachal Pradesh is located in the northeastern fringes of India and consists of 12 towns and 3649 villages. The state population is divided amongst 26 primary tribes and further a number of sub-tribes. Though divided into a number of tribes, they originate from a common stock. But, owing to their geographical isolation, they have developed unique customs, dress and habits. Broadly, the people of the state of Arunachal Pradesh may be categorized into three groupings. They are:
o The Monpas and Sherdukpens of Tawang and West Kameng districts
o The Apatanis, Bangnis, Nishis, Tangsas, Mishimis, Mijis, Adis and Akas
o The Noctes and Wanchos
The people of Arunachal Pradesh have a rich culture and tradition of artistic craftsmanship. The sense of aesthetics is very much reflected in their exquisite craft of wood carving, pottery making, basket making and painting, practiced by them. Some of the crafts practiced by the different tribes are as follows:
o Monpas- Carpet weaving
o Apatanis, Miris and Adis- Cane and Bamboo products
o Wanchos- Wood and Bamboo carvings
Ornaments
Ornaments are very popular in the state and hence, jewelry making is a cottage industry by itself. The various materials used for jewelry are beads, wild seeds, glass beads, colored bird feathers and green wings of beetles. Bamboo is also used by the Akas tribe, for making bangles and earrings. Fascinating design patterns, using glass beads, reeds, wild seeds, cane and bamboo are weaved by the Noctes and Wanchos, for making earrings, necklaces, bangles and other jewelry.