About NECIK
A multisector body working to protect, represent, and advocate for Indigenous cultural heritage in Northeast India
Who We Are
The North East Council for Indigenous Knowledge (NECIK) is a multisector body representing cultural custodians, legal experts, researchers, weavers, and community leaders from across Northeast India.
We bring together Indigenous textile custodians, researchers, legal experts, weavers, cultural practitioners, and heritage advocates to form a unified, authoritative voice on matters of Indigenous knowledge protection.
Our council serves as:
- A credible authority on Indigenous cultural heritage matters
- A point of contact for institutions, brands, policymakers, and media
- A body for consultation, permissions, and ethical collaboration
- An accountability mechanism for cultural representation and use
Why This Council Was Created
The Northeast has long needed an authoritative, credible structure so that when cultural misuse happens, there is a recognised body to respond; when governments or brands need consultation, they know where to come; and when policy, documentation, or representation is needed, we speak as a unified voice — not scattered individuals.
NECIK was established to fill this critical gap, transforming individual advocacy into collective action with recognised authority and shared purpose.
The Gap We Fill
For too long, responses to cultural misuse have come from scattered individuals, each working in isolation. When appropriation happens or policy input is needed, there has been no recognised body to turn to — no unified voice to speak with authority on behalf of the region's Indigenous communities.
NECIK provides that structure: a permanent institution where the presence and expertise of its members brings legitimacy, and whose work evolves at a sustainable pace.
Geographic & Cultural Scope
NECIK's mandate covers the eight states of Northeast India: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. This region, often called the "Seven Sisters" (with Sikkim as a brother state), is one of the most ethnically diverse areas in the world.
We work to protect and represent:
- Textile traditions — from intricate Naga shawls to Mekhela Chadors, Moirang Phee to Puan
- Motifs and patterns — community-specific designs carrying cultural and spiritual significance
- Oral knowledge — traditional practices, techniques, and associated stories
- Community-held practices — rituals, ceremonies, and customs connected to textile heritage
While our initial focus is on textile traditions, our frameworks are designed to be applicable to other forms of traditional knowledge, including traditional medicine, agricultural practices, and performing arts.
Our Approach
Building something meaningful together, step by step
Community-Led
Indigenous communities are at the centre of our work. We ensure their participation and consent in all decisions affecting their cultural heritage.
Evidence-Based
Our policy recommendations and frameworks are grounded in rigorous research, community input, and deep understanding of both traditional and legal systems.
Collaborative
We work with governments, institutions, brands, and international bodies — building bridges rather than walls, while maintaining firm ethical standards.
Sustainable
We build wisely, at a sustainable pace. Not rushing to complete a project, but organising thoughtfully to create lasting impact and institutional permanence.
Whether you're a government body, brand, researcher, or community member, we welcome your engagement.