Adi Gallong in India

Introduction / History

Gallong is one of the Adi tribes of Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India. They speak Galo Adi.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Adi Gallongs are primarily farmers who practice either wet rice or jhum (shifting) farming techniques. They grow millet, corn, rice, and vegetables for their families. They also raise pigs and chickens to eat. Women are expert weavers who use backstrap looms to produce clothes and textiles. Men supplement their diets by hunting wild animals in the forest.

Their villages have a central council house called a dere or mosup. They hold festivals and perform rituals there. The central council resolves conflicts and governs the social order.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though nearly half of the Gallong Adis are Christian, they have traditional religious practices which are close to their hearts. Their faith is primarily in these practices.

What Are Their Needs?

Although their literacy rate is increasing, it still falls short of its target. They will need to find something to replace farming, especially those practices that involve slash-and-burn methods. They need business skills so they can make money through eco-tourism and by selling handmade goods.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Adi Gallongs to get the education they need to get beyond subsistence farming.
Pray for their churches and families to have an experience with the Holy Spirit that will bring them into a strong relationship with Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord to purify the Adi Gallong church and prepare them for ministry to Tibetan Buddhists.

Text Source:   Joshua Project