In this compelling episode of The Chicken-Neck Podcast under the TCN Youth Initiative, we are joined by two remarkable young conservationists from Assam — Sanskriti and Sampriti Barman, the visionary founders of The Hargila Desk. Daughters of the globally acclaimed conservationist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, the sisters have taken forward a powerful legacy of environmental stewardship with their own unique voice and initiative. Rooted in the heart of Assam and inspired by the globally recognized Hargila Army movement for the protection of the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork, The Hargila Desk represents a new wave of youth-led conservation journalism. In this episode, we delve into their journey — from the genesis of the idea as college students to the thoughtful integration of storytelling, community involvement, and policy-level engagement in environmental action. The conversation covers a range of themes: the critical role of youth in global conservation efforts, the power of writing and awareness in shaping environmental narratives, women’s leadership in local biodiversity protection, and the vision for the future of The Hargila Desk as a movement that extends far beyond bird conservation. Whether you're an aspiring environmentalist, a policy enthusiast, or simply someone curious about grassroots change-making in Northeast India, this episode offers a powerful glimpse into how today’s youth are becoming the torchbearers of tomorrow’s ecological sustainability. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link: - The Chicken-Neck Podcast | Bingepods - Best Indian podcasts 

In the sixth episode of Season 4, we sit down with Dr. Rubul Mout, a distinguished scientist at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, renowned for his pioneering work in immuno-engineering and gene editing. Dr. Mout shares his inspiring journey from a humble upbringing in Assam to the forefront of medical research in the United States. He delves into the challenges he faced during his early education, his transformative experiences pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and his groundbreaking research on engineering hematopoietic stem cells to combat genetic blood diseases. We also explore his literary side, discussing his acclaimed Assamese memoir, 'Moru Eta Xopun Ase', which chronicles his remarkable path and has become a bestseller in Assam. Dr. Mout reflects on the intersections between his scientific endeavors and writing, offering valuable insights and advice for aspiring scientists and writers, especially those from underrepresented regions like Northeast India.​ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link: - The Chicken-Neck Podcast | Bingepods - Best Indian podcasts 

In this insightful 5th episode of The Chicken-Neck Podcast, we are joined by the esteemed Dr. Yasmin Saikia, Hardt-Nickachos Chair in Peace Studies at Arizona State University and a renowned historian. We delve into the rich and fascinating history of the Tai Ahom Kingdom, exploring the recently declared UNESCO World Heritage site—the Charaideo Maidams. Dr. Saikia sheds light on the cultural and historical significance of the Charaideo Maidams, often referred to as the 'Pyramids of Assam,' and their role in shaping the region's identity. We also discuss Buranjis, the unique historical chronicles of Assam, which provide invaluable insights into the kingdom's governance, society, and traditions. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the resurgence of Tai Ahom identity in contemporary times, reflecting on how historical narratives continue to influence cultural pride and regional consciousness. Tune in to this enriching discussion as we explore the legacy of the Tai Ahoms and their enduring impact on Assam’s history and heritage. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link: - The Chicken-Neck Podcast | Bingepods - Best Indian podcasts 

In this captivating 4th episode of Season 4, we sit with Dr. Manjeet Baruah (Author and Assistant Professor at the Special Centre for the Study of North-East India, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi) to delve deep into his latest book titled "Hunter, Peasant, Rebel: Colonialism and the British Assam Frontier". Dr. Baruah offers a thought-provoking exploration of the British Assam frontier between the late 19th and mid-20th centuries, a region critical to understanding colonial frontier-making in South Asia. He unpacks the cultural and historical significance of the "hunter," the "peasant," and the "rebel"—figures central to the narrative of colonialism and capitalism in Assam. Drawing from diverse archival sources, hunters’ memoirs, peasants’ ballads, and rebels’ worldviews, the book examines how these contrasting, yet interconnected identities reveal the intricate relations that shaped and reproduced British colonial power in Assam. Join us as Dr. Baruah illuminates the complexities of Assam’s colonial reality, offering fresh perspectives on how imperial frontiers were shaped, contested, and experienced. This is an essential conversation for anyone interested in the history of the Northeast and the broader dynamics of colonialism in South Asia. Find his book at Amazon: - Hunter, Peasant, Rebel (Empire and Frontiers): Baruah, Manjeet: 9781032832302: Amazon.com: Books Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link: - The Chicken-Neck Podcast | Bingepods - Best Indian podcasts 

In the 3rd episode of Season 4 on The Chicken-Neck Podcast, we had the honor of hosting Prof. (Dr.) Vageshwari Deswal, a distinguished law professor at the University of Delhi. This episode, titled "Decluttering the New Criminal Laws - BNS, BNSS, BSA," dives deep into the transformative changes in India's criminal justice system brought about by three pivotal legislations: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA). Prof. Deswal expertly navigates the shift from the existing laws—IPC, CrPC, and the Indian Evidence Act—to these new statutes, which aim to modernize and simplify legal procedures in India. The discussion sheds light on key aspects such as the enhanced scope of FIRs through electronic communication, the role of forensic evidence in major crimes, and new provisions for the protection of women and vulnerable groups during investigations. Her insights unravel how these reforms are set to redefine criminal jurisprudence and enhance citizens' rights and police accountability in India’s evolving legal landscape. Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation to gain a clearer understanding of what these new laws mean for India’s justice system and how they aim to address the complexities of crime and investigation in the 21st century. Find her book on New Criminal Laws at Amazon: - Buy Taxmann’s Law and Practice Series – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) | Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) | Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) | The Cornerstone Publication | 3 Books Set Book Online at Low Prices in India | Taxmann’s Law and Practice Series – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) | Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) | Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) | The Cornerstone Publication | 3 Books Set Reviews & Ratings - Amazon.in Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- The Chicken-Neck Podcast | Bingepods - Best Indian podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the second episode of Season 4, we had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Samrat Choudhary, a prominent journalist and author from Shillong, India. Samrat is known for his insightful work, including editing the anthology "Insider Outsider" on the divide in India’s Northeast, which received positive reviews. His literary accomplishments also include his novel "The Urban Jungle," nominated for the Man Asian Literary Prize, and various short stories, essays, and a graphic novella turned play. During our conversation, Samrat shared insights from his latest book, "Northeast India: A Political History," which offers an accessible introduction to the political history of the region. We delved into the historical journeys of Northeast Indian states into modern India, including the shaping of their boundaries, often influenced by neighboring countries. Identity politics, particularly based on language and religion, remain central to the region's political landscape, making the emergence of print vernaculars and the introduction of major religions significant aspects of its history. As we navigate questions of nationalism and identity globally, this episode provides a deep dive into Northeast India's history, exploring its unique journey into nationhood since 1947. Samrat Choudhary's narrative weaves together the stories of diverse tribes and peoples, from remote hill-tribes to those inhabiting the valley of the Brahmaputra River, illustrating how they became integral parts of India's diverse fabric. Join us as we unravel the captivating history of one of the world’s most intriguing regions, Northeast India.   Find the book at amazon: - Buy Northeast India: A Political History Book Online at Low Prices in India | Northeast India: A Political History Reviews & Ratings - Amazon.in    Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised.   Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the highly-anticipated Season 4 of The Chicken-Neck Podcast, where we kick off with a riveting exploration into the covert history of one of India's most influential separatist organizations – the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA). In our first episode, we are joined by senior journalist and Chevening Fellow, Mr. Rajeev Bhattacharya. Rajeev Bhattacharya, a veteran journalist with an extensive background working for reputable publications such as The Telegraph, The Indian Express, The Times of India, and Times Now, brings his wealth of experience to our podcast. As the managing editor of Seven Sisters Post, Bhattacharya has delved deep into the heart of India's northeast, reporting on the intricate dynamics of the region's borderlands with Myanmar, Bhutan, China, and Bangladesh. In his latest groundbreaking work, "ULFA: The Mirage of Dawn" (2023), Bhattacharya unravels the clandestine history of ULFA, a separatist force that has left an indelible mark on India's Northeast since the early 1980s. Join us on this compelling journey as our host engages in an exclusive conversation with Bhattacharya, shedding light on his investigative journalism process, the challenges faced, and the extraordinary encounters he experienced while peeling back the layers of ULFA's stronghold. Through this captivating podcast episode, we seek to delve into the intricate web of ULFA's influence, discovering the untold stories that have shaped the region's history. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode that promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of ULFA's complexities and the mirage that has veiled its dawn for decades. Find the book at amazon: - https://www.amazon.in/ULFA-Mirage-Dawn-Rajeev-Bhattacharyya/dp/  Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the final episode of Season 3 of our podcast, we are joined by Dr. Arupjytoi Saikia,  a professor of history at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati.  Prof. Saikia is the author of -  Forests and Ecological History of Assam, 1826-2000 (OUP, 2011), A Century of Protests: Peasant Politics in Assam since 1900 (Rutledge, 2014), and The Unquiet River: A Biography of the Brahmaputra (OUP, 2019). His A Century of Protests won the Srikant Dutt Book Prize awarded by the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library, New Delhi in 2015. The Unquiet River was short-listed for the Kamala Devi Chattopadhyay Book Award in 2020 and long-listed for the Atta Galatta-Bangalore Literature Festival Book Prize in 2020 and got ‘Honorable Mention’ for Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy Book Prize in 2021 given by the Association of Asian Studies. In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey through Assam's rich political history, unveiling its pivotal role in shaping the modern Indian subcontinent. We delve into the historical tapestry that has intricately woven Assam's identity, examining the profound impact of the struggle for independence and India's partition on its trajectory. Our discussion is centered around the compelling insights from the latest book, "The Quest for Modern Assam: A History," which meticulously explores the interconnected realms of politics, environment, economy, and culture, shaping Assam since the 1940s. This authoritative account not only redefines the writing of regional political history but also offers an unmissable opportunity for those intrigued by Assam, India, Asia, or global history in the twentieth century. Join us as we unravel the intricate layers of Assam's past, tracing back to ancient dynasties that once governed the land and examining the pivotal moments that led to its integration into the Indian Union. From the majestic reign of the Ahom Kingdom to the complexities of the British colonial era, and from the fervent fight for independence to the challenges posed by partition, we untangle the threads that compose Assam's exceptional political narrative. This exploration offers an insight into the legacies, obstacles, and triumphs that have molded Assam's modern identity, providing a deeper comprehension of the region's significance within the broader context of India's history. This episode guarantees an enlightening journey through Assam's timeline, unveiling the defining factors that have sculpted its political landscape and contributed to its place in the nation's overarching narrative. Find information about his latest book at: - https://www.penguin.co.in/book/the-quest-for-modern-assam-a-history/ Find the book at amazon: - https://www.amazon.in/Quest-Modern-Assam-Arupjyoti-Saikia/dp Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We would like to start by thanking the International Institute for Asian Studies (Leiden, Netherlands) and Mr. Benjamin Linder for helping us with the recording of this podcast episode.  In this 8th episode, we are joined by Dr. Aditya Kiran Kakati, who is a Visiting Scholar, at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and an Affiliate Research Fellow, at the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) and at The Highland Institute, Kohima, Nagaland.  Aditya works as an Associate Editor for The Highlander Journal, which seeks to promote conversations on global highlands to push the boundaries of traditional area studies. Aditya’s MA thesis was an ethnographic project titled "Eating Ethnic Enclaves: Cultural Encounters in Liminal Spaces of Eating in the Context of Migrations from the Eastern Himalayan Region". The research was on the emergence of ethnic cuisine, restaurant and labour cultures, identity politics, and socio-cultural relations arising from minority community migration from borderland conflict zones within India. He keenly maintains his culinary pursuits, mostly in the home kitchen and occasionally in public forums.  In this episode, we delve deep into the intricate and diverse food cultures of Northeast India, exposing the stigma and politics that often overshadow this rich culinary heritage. Join us as we uncover how ignorance about this region gives rise to racism and prejudice, leading to the downplaying of vital issues. We explore the unsettling disgust directed at the food consumed by Northeastern communities, revealing the intricate web of caste authority, privilege, and politics of purity that underlie these sentiments. Discover how everyday food choices in India intersect with complex issues such as caste violence, ultra-nationalism, and the quest for purity. Our episode also spotlights the recent ban on dog meat in Nagaland and the passionate debate it has ignited. We examine this issue from multiple angles, including the clash between indigenous practices and animal rights concerns. Join us on a journey that uncovers the flavors, emotions, and politics that are an integral part of Northeast India's eclectic food culture. You can read more about his work : http://journals.ed.ac.uk/himalaya/article/view/8044 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the complex socio-political landscape that impacts Manipur - an Indian State, with the renowned scholar, author, and anthropologist, Ms. Rami Desai. With her expertise in ethnic identity, tribal issues, and insurgency, Ms. Desai offers invaluable insights into the recent and ongoing Manipur violence. Throughout the episode, we explore the historical context that has contributed to the present state of unrest, shedding light on the fault lines that divide the Meiteis and Kukis communities. Ms. Desai through her on-ground experiences expertly navigates the intricacies of tensions, highlighting the apprehensions and grievances of both sides. We examine how these long-standing grievances have fueled violence and perpetuated a cycle of conflict. Beyond simply analyzing the situation, we also delve into potential measures that can be taken to address the conflict and foster a peaceful resolution. Ms. Desai's scholarly perspective allows us to consider both immediate solutions and long-term approaches that may help heal wounds and build bridges between communities. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us in this compelling episode as we delve deep into the pressing issue of floods in Assam and their catastrophic impact on the captivating island of Majuli. Majuli, one of the largest river islands in the world, is at the brink of being lost forever due to a combination of flooding and erosion, exacerbated by inadequate policy measures. Our guest, Dr. Mitul Baruah, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Anthropology & Environmental Studies at Ashoka University, brings his expertise to shed light on this critical topic. Dr. Baruah is the author of the thought-provoking book "Slow Disaster: Political Ecology of Hazards and Everyday Life in the Brahmaputra Valley, Assam," which unravels the struggles and everyday lives of rural communities in the hazardous geographies of the Brahmaputra Valley. With a focus on Majuli, his extensive ethnographic research highlights the immense challenges faced by its residents, including the loss of landmass, destruction of livelihoods, and forced displacement and outmigration. In this episode, we explore the nuances surrounding Brahmaputra Valley's flood crisis, examining the interplay of natural and human factors that have contributed to the valley's vulnerability. We also discuss the historical context of Majuli's transformations, the impact on the local population, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Through our conversation with Dr. Baruah, we aim to understand the complexities of the flood issue and explore potential pathways towards building a sustainable mechanism for resolving this crisis. Join us as we navigate the waters, raise awareness, and seek actionable steps to rescue Majuli and safeguard its future.   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our 5th episode of Season 3, we explore the rich and diverse dance cultures of the Northeast region of India, and how they intersect with concepts of sacrality, sociality, and the State. We are joined by Dr. Debanjali Biswas, who is an early career researcher in Performance Studies and Social Anthropology. She writes to critically engage with social, political, affective dimensions of dance in everyday life in contemporary South Asia. She is currently a Research Fellow with Showtown History Centre, Blackpool.  The Northeast region of India is home to a plethora of dance forms, each with its unique history, cultural significance, and social context. From the high-energy Bihu dance of Assam to the graceful Naga dances, these dance forms have evolved over centuries, reflecting the complex cultural and social dynamics of the region.One of the key themes we delve into in this podcast is the role of sacrality in Northeastern dance cultures. For many communities in the region, dance is not just a form of entertainment, but a sacred ritual performed in honor of deities and ancestors. We explore how these sacred dimensions of dance intersect with sociality and community-building, shaping the way people relate to each other and their surroundings. We also examine the role of the state in Northeastern dance cultures, and how government policies and initiatives have impacted these dance forms. While some argue that state support has helped preserve and promote Northeastern dance cultures, others point out that it has also led to a homogenization of these diverse traditions. Dr. Biswas has offered a nuanced and insightful exploration of the complex interplay between sacrality, sociality, and the state in Northeastern dance cultures. Whether you're a dance enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about the rich and diverse cultural landscape of India, this episode is sure to offer a fascinating and thought-provoking perspective on the region's dance traditions.   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised.   Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to fourth episode of The Chicken-Neck Podcast, where we take a closer look at the role of media in the world of sports. In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Nilanjan Dutta, who has had a long and illustrious career as the Director of Media and spokesperson for the All India Football Federation. We begin our conversation by discussing the crucial role that media plays in sports, and how it has evolved over the years. Mr. Dutta shares his insights on the challenges that media professionals face in reporting on sports events, and how the rise of social media has changed the game. We then delve into the disturbing issue of online abuse against players, and how it affects their mental health and well-being. Mr. Dutta shares his thoughts on the steps that need to be taken to combat this growing problem, including the role of sports organizations and the media in speaking out against such behavior. Our conversation then shifts to the key policy questions relating to sports in Northeast India. Mr. Dutta, who has worked closely with sports organizations in the region, sheds light on the challenges that need to be overcome to promote sports in this area, including infrastructure development and talent identification.Throughout the episode, Mr. Dutta provides valuable insights and perspectives on a range of issues affecting the world of sports, drawing on his extensive experience and deep knowledge of the industry. So tune in to this insightful episode of TCN, and gain a better understanding of the vital role that media and policy play in shaping the world of sports.   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the 3rd episode of Season 3 of The Chicken-Neck Podcast. Today we're joined by Mr. Utpal Borpujari, who is an National award winning filmmaker and critic having been awarded the National Film Award twice in both roles.  In this episode, we talk to him about his journey from being a journalist to donning the hat of filmmaking. He has been instrumental in depicting the diverse culture of Assam through his filmmaking which includes many prominent documentaries such as "Ishu", "Memories of a Forgotten War", "Songs of the Blue Hills", "Mayong: Myth/Reality" as well as his latest movie on Majuli's mask making culture titled "Mask Art of Majuli", & also short fiction films such as "Xogun", among many others.  The episode also covers aspects of documentary filmmaking and it's importance in showcasing the real life stories, the problems and prospects, as well as the various initiatives taken by him.  (00:00- 07:06):- Journey of Mr. Utpal Borpujari (07:07- 12:45):- The documentary on Mask Making culture of Majuli titled "Mask Art of Majuli" (12:46- 25:35):- Documentary Filmmaking (25:36- 34:28):- The importance of documentaries in showcasing real life stories (34:29- 42:25):- Problems & Prospects (42:26- 52:30):- Relatability of Content (52:30- 54:25):- The contribution of Late Nipon Goswami (54:26- 56:34):- The documentary titled "Baruar Xongxar" (56:35- 1:03:34):- Mongeet (1:03:35- 1:06:42):- Upcoming projects and the Conclusion   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast        Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode features Team Chicken Neck in conversation with Dr. Rajib Sutradhar, who currently works as an Assistant Professor of Economics at the School of Social Sciences, Christ University Bangalore.  Dr. Sutradhar has written extensively on several economic aspects relating to Assam over the years, especially on cold storages, food prices, supply chains, supermarkets, and rural inequality. In this episode, we discuss several aspects of his work and questions relating to economic development in Assam and the Northeast and discussed policy issues in several sectors keeping in mind the impact of the pandemic. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Samyak Ghosh a Ph.D. from Columbia University, is a cultural historian of premodern South Asia. His geographical area of research includes the present-day northeast of India, Indo-Tibetan borderlands, and the Eastern Himalayan Region. He was awarded the Kumkum Chatterjee Memorial Award in Indian History and the Junior Research Fellowship by the American Institute of Indian Studies in 2019-2020. He is currently completing a monograph titled, “Formations of the King: The Practice of Political Culture in the Contact Zones of Hindustan, 1700-1850”. The book intervenes in the fields of kingship studies, premodern South Asia, Mughal studies, court studies, critical caste studies, and South Asian religions. In this episode, we speak to Dr. Ghosh about the cultural, political, and legal history of the early Brahmaputra Valley. The discussion covers some interesting facts on history, including the formation of kings to the courtly culture in the early Brahmaputra Valley. Subsequently, we also discussed some key policy questions emerging in postcolonial Assam, such as the question of making 'Assamese' a state language as well as the debate over Barak vs. Brahmaputra, which is addressed through the lens of history. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised.   Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our 11th episode of Season 2, we are joined by Mr. Debajit Das, an advocate at Gauhati High Court. He has been a front-runner of environmental litigation in Northeast India.  In this episode, we spoke to Mr. Das on the importance of judicial intervention in environmental issues, in light of the Dehing-Patkai Illegal Coal Mining case as well as the Baghjan Gas Tragedy. Further, we also looked into the aspect of Environment Impact Assessment and the liability of government in case of an environmental disaster. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised.   Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our 10th ep. of Season 2, we are joined by Dr. Jelle J.P. Wouters, who is an author and a social anthropologist, currently teaches at Department of Social Sciences at Royal Thimphu College, Bhutan. Previously he taught at Sikkim Central University and was a visiting faculty at Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Germany. Over the years, he has conducted ethnographic and historical research in the Naga highlands, writing about vernacular democracy and elections, political conflict, kinship and identity, and social history. He has written on politics, insurgency, capitalism, and identity in Northeast India, and is the author of 'In the Shadows of Naga Insurgency: Tribes, State, and Violence in Northeast India (OUP, 2018).' In this episode, we speak to Dr. Wouters on the relationship between state, ethnicity, & territoriality in the Northeast India, more specifically Nagaland. The discussion covers the impact of AFSPA on the Naga society and the repeal of the same in the light of recent Otting killings. It also focuses on the socio-ecological and socio-political corollaries of this region’s rediscovery as a resource and capitalist frontier. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://bingepods.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast   Link to his books: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42634567-in-the-shadows-of-naga-insurgency?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=QMSF0oMKZB&rank=1 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60557315-subaltern-studies-2-0 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61741455-routledge-handbook-of-highland-asia?ref=nav_sb_ss_2_10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our 9th episode, we are joined by Mr. Pradyut Bordoloi, an Indian Politician from the state of Assam, currently serving as a Member of Parliament for Nowgong constituency. He served as an MLA of Margherita for three consecutive terms in 2001, 2006 & 2011. In this episode, we briefly discuss his journey as a politician - wherein he has held significant posts such as a Cabinet Minister in the State of Assam and now as an MP. We discuss his current push for policies, some of which addresses significant problems in the  State such as climate migration and its correlation with climate change; public participation in policy-making; dual time zones for Assam, and integrated flood management. We also discuss with him the recent trends of 'internet shutdowns' in the country and how as a parliamentarian he visualizes such situations. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://audiowallah.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our 8th episode, we are joined by Mr. Karma Paljor, who is an award-winning Indian journalist and entrepreneur who co-founded Atvi Infotainment, a content creation company, in 2018. The business verticals include EastMojo.com, a digital news website that reports extensively on northeast India to bring out the lesser-known stories of life in this otherwise ignored region. In this episode, we talked about the story of Eastmojo, which emerged as the mouthpiece of the region, with intent to give the 'nation' what it hasn't been represented with till today- 'the eastern opinion'. We also talked about the challenges in journalism in NE, citizen journalism, among many other things. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the individual podcasters. Listener Discretion is advised. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can listen to our show on all streaming platforms by clicking on the link:- https://audiowallah.com/podcast/the-chicken-neck-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices