Volume II Special Issue IV April 2022

Name of Author : Devika Nepram

Title of the paper : Influence of Silk Route on Manipurs Economy and Polity

Abstract: Manipur is located in the north eastern border of mainland India and it shares its boundary with Burma. This strategic location of Manipur facilitates as an entry point of the Silk Route to mainland India. The Silk Route is a trade route originating in China and extends till western Asia and the Mediterranean area. There are evidences of a trade network with mainland India and south China operating though Manipur. The main items that were traded were mainly raw silk, fruits, wax, cotton, pony etc, favoring the weaving and textile industry, sustaining the livelihood of many weavers even up to this day. As a result of the interchange, trade and economy of the different countries that passed through this silk route was enhanced greatly, indirectly influencing other aspects of life. Inter cultural exchanges such as matrimonial alliances etc had its impact on the society, political and administrative set up of Manipur.

Keywords : Manipur; Silk Route; Trade; Economy; Polity

DOI :

Page Number : 38-42