Geographic Characteristics

Chin State is situated between latitudes 20°40'N and 24°06'N, and between longitudes 92°37'E and 94°09'E. It lies in the north-western part of Myanmar, and covers an area of 13,906.967 square miles or 36,018.9 square kilometers. The land is rugged, mountainous and separated by deep valleys and there is hardly any plain or pleteau. The mountain ranges run from north to south, and the average altitude in the northen part reaches to around 4,000 ft. above sea level, and in the southern part to around 2,000 ft. The highest peak Khau-nu-thom formerly called Mt. Victoria measures 10,200 ft.

Between alitudes 3,000 ft. and 5,000 ft., the climate is temporate. Chin state, just like the rest of Myanmar, has 3 seasons: the dry hot season, the wet rainny season and the cold winter season. The weather is generally wet and cold. The hottest months are April and May. Even in the hottest season, the temperature ranges between 60°F(15.5°C) and 70°F (21°C). In winter, the temperature drops to 40°F(4.4°C).The amount of rainfall varies from place to place; Haka receives about 90" to 100", Falam about 50" to 60"and Tiddim about 40" to 50".There are many rivers, streams and creeks. The important rivers are the Kadalan, Manipur, Myit-thar and Boi-nu.

At an altitude of about 5,000 fts, Oaks and pines (Pinus Khasya) are found. Teak and other hardswoods are also found at altitudes below 3,000 ft.

As flat land is scarce, shifting cultivation is parctised along the hillsides. Due to difficult terrain, agriculture is entirely dependent on human labour, there is very little use for draught animals. Terrace cultivation is also used, but it is of recent introduction.

Paddy, beans, pulses, potato, maize, millet, wheat, mustard and tobacco are grown. Grapes, oranges, damsons and apples are also grown. Coffee has become in important cash crop.

		

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