The medieval period in Assam, roughly spanning the 13th to 18th centuries, witnessed the evolution of a complex economic structure rooted in agriculture, trade, industries, and craftsmanship. The Ahom dynasty, which ruled much of Assam during this time, played a pivotal role in shaping its economy, fostering a well-organized administration and resource management system. Below is a detailed exploration of key aspects of the economy of medieval Assam.
Agriculture and Land Revenue System
Importance of Agriculture
Agriculture was the backbone of the medieval Assamese economy, as the region's fertile plains, watered by the Brahmaputra and its tributaries, made it highly conducive for cultivation.
The primary crops included rice, mustard, sugarcane, betel nut, and cotton. Among these, rice was the staple crop and occupied the largest area under cultivation.
Shifting cultivation (jhum) was practiced in the hilly areas, while settled agriculture dominated the plains.
Irrigation and Agricultural Practices
Advanced irrigation systems, such as canals (known locally as khels), were constructed under the supervision of local officials.
Plough-based agriculture was prevalent, with bullocks and buffaloes commonly used for tilling the land.
Land Ownership
Land in medieval Assam was classified broadly into raikhat (crown land), nankar (rent-free land for officials), and devottar (land endowed to temples or religious institutions).
Village chiefs, or gaon burhas, played a crucial role in land distribution and ensuring agricultural productivity.
Land Revenue System
The land revenue system was well-organized and served as a significant source of state income.
Revenue was collected in the form of pokan-dhan (a share of the harvest) or in cash, depending on the region and produce.
The peasants were organized into khels, or work units, under a system called paik, where individuals rendered service to the state instead of paying taxes. This labor service included agricultural work, construction, and military duties.
Role of the Ahom State
The Ahom rulers maintained an elaborate census of households, land, and resources. This administrative precision ensured equitable land distribution and prevented exploitation of peasants.
State granaries stored surplus produce to mitigate famines and provide sustenance during military campaigns.
Trade Routes and Commerce
Trade Routes
Assam's strategic location, surrounded by Bhutan, Tibet, Bengal, and Burma (modern-day Myanmar), positioned it as a vital link in regional trade networks.
The Brahmaputra River served as the main artery for trade, connecting Assam to the plains of Bengal and beyond.
Overland trade routes connected Assam to the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, Bhutan, and Tibet, facilitating the exchange of goods like silk, spices, and horses.
Major Trade Items
Exports: Assam exported high-quality silk (especially muga and eri), betel nuts, rice, and mustard oil. Elephants, a prized commodity, were also exported to neighboring kingdoms.
Imports: Items like salt, precious metals, horses, and textiles were imported from Bengal, Tibet, and Southeast Asia.
Role of Markets
Local markets, called hats or bazaars, played a crucial role in internal commerce. These markets acted as hubs for the exchange of agricultural produce, forest products, and artisanal goods.
Weekly markets catered to the rural population, while urban centers like Sivasagar and Gauhati (present-day Guwahati) emerged as important trade hubs.
Merchant Communities
Assamese merchants were adept at navigating the Brahmaputra River and participated in both regional and long-distance trade.
The banik community, along with Marwari traders who settled in Assam during the later medieval period, facilitated commercial activities.
Industries and Craftsmanship
Handloom and Textiles
Assam's silk industry flourished during the medieval period, with muga, eri, and pat silks being renowned for their quality.
Women played a central role in weaving, a household industry that also contributed significantly to the economy.
The gamosa, mekhela chador, and other traditional garments were crafted using indigenous techniques.
Metalwork and Bell Metal
Bell metal and brass industries were prominent, with craftsmen producing utensils, ceremonial items, and musical instruments.
The xorai (a traditional offering tray) and bota (a ceremonial cup) were notable products that showcased the region's metallurgical skills.
Pottery and Earthenware
Pottery was a thriving cottage industry, providing everyday items like cooking vessels and storage jars.
Skilled potters, known locally as kumars, catered to the needs of both rural and urban populations.
Woodwork and Ivory Carving
Assam's dense forests provided abundant timber, leading to the development of a vibrant woodcraft tradition.
Ivory carving was a prestigious art form, with intricate designs used in making combs, jewelry, and decorative items.
Boat Building
Proximity to rivers and an emphasis on water transport spurred a robust boat-building industry.
Boats of various sizes, from small canoes to large vessels for trade and warfare, were constructed using locally available timber.
Cottage Industries
Oil extraction from mustard, sugarcane processing, and betel nut cultivation were other significant industries.
The lahkari (lacquerware) industry produced decorative items and toys.