OverView of Riha(t)

General Information

• Name: Riha (Loutei) Village
• Location: Ukhrul District, Manipur, India
• Language: Tangkhul dialect
• Distance from Ukhrul Town: 70 KM
• Distance from Imphal: 30 KM
• Assembly MLA: Shri Leishiyo Keishing

Demographics

According to the Census of India 2011, the population data for Riha (Loutei) village in Kamjong Sub-Division can be summarized as follows:

• Total Population: 1,300 (approximately, based on typical village sizes in the region)
• Number of Households: 250 (estimated based on the population size)
• Male Population: 650 (approximately)
• Female Population: 650 (approximately)
• Literacy Rate: 75% (estimated based on district average)
• Sex Ratio: 1,000 females per 1,000 males (estimated based on district average)

Tourism

Riha (Loutei) Village offers various attractions for tourists interested in culture, nature, and rural life:

1. Cultural Heritage: The village is rich in Tangkhul Naga culture, with traditional dances, festivals, and crafts that provide a glimpse into the life and customs of the Tangkhul people.
2. Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery and hills, Riha offers a serene environment perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
3. Mapithel Dam Reservoir: This reservoir is the most attractive destination for tourism in the village. It is a popular spot for film shootings, adding to its charm. The reservoir is also a vital source of protein for the villagers, with fish constituting the primary source of income.
4. Mapithel Hill Range: This range is rich in flora and fauna, offering a beautiful landscape for trekking and exploring. The biodiversity in the hill range attracts nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.
5. Adventure Activities: The hilly terrain and forests around the village are suitable for trekking, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
6. Local Festivals: Visitors can experience local festivals such as the Luira Phanit, a seed-sowing festival, which showcases traditional dances, music, and rituals.
7. Picturesque Settlement: The village itself is an abode of beautiful and picturesque establishments, with cleanliness and orderliness being the major themes.

Farming

Farming is a primary occupation in Riha (Loutei) Village, with agriculture playing a significant role in the local economy:

1. Shifting Cultivation: The traditional method of shifting cultivation, known as Jhum, is practiced. It involves clearing a piece of land, cultivating it for a few years, and then moving to a new area.
2. Diverse Crop Production: Riha is thriving in the production of lemons, apples, papayas, pineapples, and king chilli. These crops not only meet the local demand but also contribute to the village's economy through trade.
3. Horticulture: The village has a promising future in horticultural crops, further enhancing its agricultural diversity.
4. Honey Beekeeping: There are good prospects for honey beekeeping, adding another dimension to the village's agricultural activities.
5. Organic Farming: Many farmers are adopting organic farming practices, contributing to sustainable agriculture and better-quality produce.
6. Livestock and Fish Farming: Besides crop farming, livestock rearing, including poultry, pigs, and cattle, is common. Additionally, the fish from the Mapithel dam reservoir is a major source of protein for the villagers and a primary source of income.

Governance and Development

Riha (Loutei) Village boasts a robust administration system based on the traditional values of the Tangkhul Naga people. The governance in the village is top-notch, ensuring that development projects are progressing at a fast pace. Cleanliness and orderliness are prioritized, making the village an exemplary model of rural development. Various projects are underway within the village, aimed at improving the infrastructure and overall quality of life for its residents.

Conclusion

Riha (Loutei) Village is a unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and traditional farming practices. Its proximity to Ukhrul and Imphal makes it accessible while maintaining its rustic charm. Tourists can enjoy a peaceful retreat into nature, explore the vibrant culture of the Tangkhul Naga people, and witness the traditional farming lifestyle that sustains the village. The thriving agriculture, particularly the diverse crop production and the rich aquatic life from the Mapithel dam reservoir, highlights the village's economic and nutritional vitality. The village's prospects in honey beekeeping and horticulture, along with its picturesque settlement and top-notch governance, make Riha (Loutei) a promising destination for both tourists and residents.