HT Correspondent
MARGHERITA, Feb 14: Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the historical Patkai Hills, Malu Gaon 1 in Ledo, with its modest population of 600 Tangsa tribe members, has emerged as a prime tourist attraction, thanks to the vision and efforts of its village pradhan, Tehon Hakun.
Reflecting on the journey from adversity to acclaim, Tehon Hakun, a 60-year-old leader, shared the challenges faced by the village two decades ago. Lack of basic amenities such as electricity, proper roads, educational institutions, and water supply hindered its growth and deterred visitors. Determined to change this narrative, Tehon Hakun spearheaded various initiatives, including the construction of wells harnessing water from the Patkai Hills.
The roots of Malu Gaon trace back two centuries when Tehon Hakun’s ancestors, belonging to the Tangsa tribe, settled in the area, practicing traditional Jhum cultivation for sustenance. Despite the rugged terrain, the community boasts a remarkable longevity, with many individuals living beyond 90 years.
Embracing Christianity as their predominant faith, the Tangsa community of Malu Gaon adheres to strict principles, prohibiting the consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Education plays a pivotal role in the village, with educated youths actively participating in agricultural endeavors and tea cultivation.
Tehon Hakun’s advocacy for electrification, once a contentious issue with Northeastern Coalfields Coal India Margherita, bore fruit in 2022. Through the implementation of the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) scheme by the state government, every household in Malu Gaon 1 now enjoys access to electricity, marking a significant milestone in the village’s development journey.