Published Paper Details:

Chieftainship institution is the oldest form of tribal administration that still works among the Nocte tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Though in many tribal areas of Northeast India Chieftainship has declined due to the introduction of democratic institution, it still functions among the Noctes society with a slight change. The respective district administration gives due respect and importance to the chiefs and their assistance were sought whenever required. The chief help the administration in maintaining law and order and assist the district administration in solving various problems related to local matters and other administration matters. In spite of the significant role played by the chieftaincy institution among the Nocte villages, the institution has come under attack as many question its relevance in modern political dispensation. This article explores the prospect and challenges of Nocte Chieftaincy institutions in the contemporary democratic set up.