Revisiting the history of the Iron Industry in Kakching, Manipur

Corresponding Author: Naorem Manojkumar Singh, Department of History, Indira Gandhi National Open University,
New Delhi, Delhi-110068, Email address: naoremmanoj25859@gmail.com

KEYWORDS Iron, Kakching, Metallurgy

ABSTRACT
Introduction: The evolution of iron smelting has played a pivotal role in fostering development and globalisation worldwide since its inception. Even in seemingly remote corners, such as the small district of Kakching in Manipur, this historical process holds significant importance. This study aims to unravel the history of iron smelting by interviewing five elderly residents who have witnessed its evolution over the past three generations in Kakching.
Methodology: The data were collected using unstructured interviews to record oral sources and personal experiences of the participants. The primary data were thematically analysed and supported by secondary sources.
Results: Evidence of iron smelting is meticulously curated in the Kakching Museum, providing tangible links to the settlement’s history. Both oral traditions and written records vividly depict how iron smelting has influenced settlement patterns across various areas of Kakching. Furthermore, as agricultural techniques advanced and iron tools became integral, the community gradually shifted towards agrarian occupations, resulting in a decline in iron smelting activities. However, the people of Kakching continue to cherish their iron industry heritage, preserving historical artefacts in the Kakching Museum, thus maintaining a tangible connection to their past.

Naorem Manojkumar Singh¹*, Jacob Luiram²

¹Department of History, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi, Delhi-110068
²Department of History, Manipur University, Canchipur, Manipur-795003

DOI-DS: 09.2024-88661588
DOI Link :: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2024-88661588/FrontierAnthropology/2024/13/A1

Frontier Anthropology, 2024, 13: 1-4
©Anthropological Society of Manipur

Brief Article

Manuscript Timeline
Submitted: April 12, 2024
Accepted: June 21, 2024
Published: September 20, 2024