Early Human Migration
Over 500,000 years ago, humans left Africa in search of better living conditions.
These migrations were driven by the need to find food, escape natural disasters, and avoid diseases.
While much of this history is documented, some parts of human migration stories are still missing.
Recent research has focused on the Nicobar Archipelago, shedding light on one of these missing migration stories.
Genetic Study of Nicobarese People
Scientists conducted genetic analysis on 1,559 individuals across South and Southeast Asia to understand the Nicobarese origins.
The study found genetic links between the Nicobarese and the Htin Mal community from the Laos-Thailand region.
The Nicobarese people were found to have retained their Austroasiatic language roots, specifically from the Khmuic branch.
Earlier studies had linked them to South Asian groups, but the latest analysis places them closer to Southeast Asian populations.
Correcting the Migration Timeline
Previous estimates suggested the Nicobarese arrived in the Nicobar Islands around 11,500 years ago.
New findings, based on genetic markers, show that their ancestors migrated approximately 5,000 years ago.
The research team used biparental genetic markers, offering more accurate insights than mitochondrial DNA alone.
The study confirmed that the Nicobarese’s ancestors had remained largely isolated, preserving their genetic identity.
Future Research and Insights
Despite genetic ties to Southeast Asian groups, the Nicobarese have a unique lifestyle and culture, influenced by their geographic isolation.
Their isolation has also shielded them from many diseases, including COVID-19, as they were protected unless exposed by outside contact.
The Nicobarese's adaptation to their environment, free from polluted and pathogen-filled surroundings, might make them vulnerable to infections if exposed to outside diseases.
Researchers are now planning further studies to investigate their immune responses and survival strategies, focusing on how environmental factors and natural selection have shaped their adaptation.
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