Illemei in India

People Name:	Illemei
Country:	India
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	110,000
World Population:	110,000
Primary Language:	Naga, Mao
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	99.22 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Tribal - Naga
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Illemei tribe is also called Mao Naga, because of their language which is part of the Tibeto-Burman language group. Most live in Manipur, but some are in Assam or Nagaland.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are subsistence farmers who grow millet, corn, rice, and vegetables. To supplement their income, they make woven goods to trade or sell.

Some have moved to urban centers for better education and jobs in government service, teaching, and church work.

Illemei families are patrilineal, with inheritance going through the father’s line. They have extended families. Everyone is expected to respect their elders, who have most of the decision-making power. People marry outside their clan.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Illemeis are Christian, but they have kept many traditional beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

Those who live in remote rural areas don’t have access to higher education and healthcare. Nor do they have electricity in their homes. Roads are not available. Subsistence farming means poverty for most.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Illemei clans and churches, drawing them closer to the only Savior.
Pray for the Lord to provide them with adequate education, roads, and medical care.
Pray that soon Illemeis will be Christ’s ambassadors to Tibetan Buddhists and Hindus.