This report focuses on relations between the United States and India, a relationship deepened in the Clinton and G. W. Bush Administrations. The Obama Administrations seeks to continue developing this relationship. Continuing U.S. interest in South Asia focuses on ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the proliferation of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, human rights issues, caste-based discrimination, and India's economic expansion.

Tharon (Thalon) villagers perform the sideward stepping dance 'malian phenbo'. The dance marks the beginning of Chaga festival. This dance is performed by Liangmai men. The men dance through the village until they come and stop in one designated place.

Tharon (Thalon) villagers perform the war cry or battle cry, 'Kahoi-hoibo'. It is a war cry or a battle call made by men. Men are divided into four groups and each group takes turns performing the kahoi. This kahoi-hoibo instills a spirit of oneness among men. Kahoi-hoibo is performed while going to war, as well as when performing community works like pulling big logs or rocks.