Consider the following statements regarding the Moran community of Assam: Statement I: The Moran community is an aboriginal tribe of Assam that had an independent kingdom before the Ahom rule. Statement II: They were converted to Vaishnavism in the 17th century by Aniruddhadeva, becoming part of the Moamoria sect, which influenced their cultural regeneration. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

The correct answer is Option 1 In News The Moran community in Assam’s Tinsukia district has launched an economic blockade to press their demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Key Points The Moran community is an aboriginal tribe of Assam and once had an independent kingdom before being integrated under the Ahoms. Hence, Statement I is correct. In the 17th century, Aniruddhadeva converted them to Vaishnavism, and they became part of the Moamoria sect, which played a significant role in their cultural and social regeneration. Hence, Statement II is correct. The conversion to Vaishnavism directly explains their cultural revival after the decline of their independent rule. Hence, Statement II correctly explains Statement I. Additional Information The Morans have a small population in Arunachal Pradesh’s Namsai district as well. They are one of the six communities in Assam agitating for ST status—others include Tea Tribes/Adivasis, Motok, Tai Ahom, Chutia, and Koch-Rajbongshi. Their homeland in Upper Assam (Tinsukia region) is rich in oil, coal, and tea, making their political movement significant for Assam’s economy.