Which indigenous faith of the Bodo community in Assam, centered on reverence for nature and the five elemental principles—Ha (Earth), Dwi (Water), Or (Fire), Bar (Air), and Okhrang (Sky), has been officially granted a separate code in the upcoming national census?

The correct answer is Bathouism. In News The Bathou religion of the Bodo community in Assam has been officially granted a separate code in the upcoming national census, recognizing it as a distinct indigenous faith. Key Points Bathouism is the traditional religion of the Bodo community, primarily practiced in Assam and parts of North Bengal. The term “Bathou” signifies “Five Principles,” representing Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Sky — the core elements of the universe. The faith emphasizes harmony between humans and nature, with rituals centered on sacred plants like the Sijou plant. Granting a separate census code acknowledges Bathouism’s cultural and spiritual significance for the Bodo community. Additional Information Bodo Community Indigenous ethnic group of Assam and parts of North Bengal. Speak the Bodo language, part of the Tibeto-Burman family. Traditionally follow Bathouism, though some later adopted Hinduism and Christianity. Bathouism Rooted in nature worship and environmental balance. Central symbol: Sijou plant, representing the supreme deity Bathoubwrai. Practices include household and community rituals aligned with seasonal cycles. Other Indigenous Religions with Census Codes Sarnaism (Jharkhand, tribal groups) Donyi-Polo (Arunachal Pradesh) Sanamahism (Manipur, Meitei community) Significance of Census Code Recognition Helps preserve distinct cultural and religious identity. Enables policy support and inclusion in national datasets.