Diversity

Q1. What is Diversity? Enlist various forms of diversity.

Introduction

Diversity in the Indian perspective refers to the wide range of differences that exist
between people in India. These differences can be in terms of their physical
characteristics, such as their race, ethnicity, or language; their cultural beliefs and
practices; or their religious beliefs.

India is a country with a long and rich history, and this diversity is a reflection of the
many different cultures and traditions that have come together over time. It is also a
reflection of the country's geographical location, which has made it a crossroads for
people from all over the world.

Embracing Various Dimensions

India's diversity is a captivating tapestry that manifests in multiple dimensions, as

outlined below:

1. Geographical Mosaic: Rich Topography India's expensive land stretches over 3.2
lakh sq km, showcasing geographical diversity. From arid deserts to lush
evergreen forests, snow-capped Himalayas to serene coastlines, and fertile
plains, the country's topography is a beautiful medley.
2. Religious Melange: Embracing Diverse Faiths India proudly stands as a land of
diversities, particularly evident in the realm of religion. A multi-religious nation, it
houses Hindus (79.9%), Muslims (14.2%), Christians (2.32%), Sikhs (1.7%),
Buddhists (0.6%), and Jains (0.41%) in harmonious coexistence.
3. Linguistic Kaleidoscope: Tower of Babel A "veritable tower of Babel," India's
linguistic landscape is a testament to its diversity. With each state having its own
language, accent, and dialect, Census 2011 recorded a remarkable tally of around
122 languages.
4. Cultural Plurality: A Multicultural Treasure India stands out among the most
diverse societies globally, celebrating a multitude of cultures. The nation's
cultural diversity marks it as one of the largest multicultural societies in the
world.
5. Caste Complexity: Unique Social Stratification As a distinct form of stratification,
the caste system is inherent to Indian society. Representing an extreme closed
class system, an individual's social status is predetermined by birth.
6. Racial Fusion: The Melting Pot of Races and Tribes India's historical allure has
beckoned waves of migration from across the globe since time immemorial. This
influx of diverse races and tribes contributes to the absence of a uniform racial
composition, aptly earning India the title of a 'melting pot.'

Conclusion:

India's richness in diversity forms the foundation of its unique identity. With its
geographical, religious, linguistic, cultural, caste, and racial dimensions, India stands
as an exemplar of unity in diversity. Embracing this mosaic of distinctions, the
country thrives as a vibrant, inclusive, and harmonious nation.

Q2. How has India been able to preserve its Unity given its diverse social fabric.
Discuss the threats to the idea of ‘unity in diversity’. How can civil society help in
sustaining diversity?

Introduction:

India, a nation known for its diversity, embodies the essence of being 'different from
each other' and 'made up of distinct characteristics, qualities, or elements.' With a
rich tapestry of religions, races, languages, art, and cultures, India stands as a melting
pot of various identities.

It proudly bears the mantle of a multi-religious, multi-racial, multicultural, multi-

ethnic, and multilingual country, where unity and cohesiveness have withstood the
test of time, even amidst foreign invasions. The phrase 'unity in diversity' exemplifies
the unique beauty of India.

India's Diversity and Unity: Preserving Cultural Heritage and Challenges:

I. India's Diverse Fabric:

● Geographical vastness and historical assimilation have made India one of the
most diverse countries globally.
● Cultural markers like language, religion, sect, race, caste, and tribes contribute
to its diversity.

II. Steps Taken to Preserve Diversity and Ensure Unity:

1. Establishment of a Democratic Polity:
● Universal adult suffrage extended to all citizens.
● Three-tier governance for decentralisation, including Autonomous District
Councils in the North-East.

2. Constitutional Provisions and Fundamental Rights:

● Preamble describes India as a secular polity with liberty, freedom, and
fraternity as objectives.
● Fundamental Rights aimed at preserving and sustaining diversity.

3. Linguistic Reorganisation of States:

● States Reorganisation Act, 1956, based on major languages spoken.
● Twenty-two languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution for
promotion and preservation.

4. Government Policies and Schemes:

● Ministries like Culture and Tribal Affairs established to promote diversity.
● Schemes like Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and Dekho Apna Desh.

III. Challenges to Cultural Diversity in India:

1. Modernization and Westernization:

● Dilution and extinction of indigenous cultures.
● Globalisation and integrated economic models impacting traditional practices.

2. Regionalism:
● Rooted in India's diverse languages, cultures, tribes, and religions.
● Anti-Hindi agitations, North-South divide, and 'son of the soil' ideology.
● Threatening unity through separatist and secessionist movements.

3. Divisive Politics:
● Politicians indulging in divisive tactics for gaining votes.
● Alienation of certain sections and widening societal divides based on caste,
culture, and religion.

In order to preserve the cultural diversity of India, civil society organisations need to
take concentrated efforts to address the above challenges.

Role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Sustaining Diversity:

1. Ensuring Political Rights:

 ● CSOs support citizens in asserting their Constitutional rights to preserve and
promote Indian culture.

2. Preserving Cultural Symbols and Heritage:

● CSOs and private players contribute to maintaining monuments, art, and
crafts, preserving cultural symbols.

3. Awareness Generation and Sensitization:

● CSOs raise awareness and sensitise people about India's diversity through
public programs and cultural events.
● Indian cinema celebrates diversity and influences audiences positively.

Conclusion:

India's unity in diversity is a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Steps taken by the
government and the active role of civil society organisations play a vital role in
preserving this diversity. However, challenges like modernization, regionalism, and
divisive politics need to be addressed collectively to ensure the continued
celebration of India's cultural fabric.

Q3. The term ‘North-East’ does not convey the cultural diversity of the region
which still remains largely unexplored. Examine.

The North-Eastern region of India, encompassing eight states, is not only known for
its diverse physiography and rich wildlife but also boasts a captivating blend of
cultural and demographic diversity.

However, this rich tapestry of cultures and the complex social milieu of the region
cannot be adequately captured by a single unifying nomenclature ‘North-East’. To
truly comprehend its uniqueness, one must take into account several factors, as
discussed below.

Cultural and Demographic Diversity in North-Eastern India:

Geographical Spread of Demography:

● Hill Tribes: Various indigenous hill tribes with distinct cultures and traditions.
● Plain Tribes: Indigenous tribes residing in the plains, each with its unique
identity.
 ● Non-Tribals of the Plains: People from non-tribal communities residing in the
plains.

Language Diversity:
● Sino-Tibetan Linguistic Family: Most languages in the region belong to this
family.
a. Bodo, Dimasa, Karbi languages of Assam.
b. Garo language of Meghalaya.
c. Kokborok language of Tripura.
d. Languages spoken in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and hills
of Manipur belong to the Tibeto-Burman sub-family.
● Indo-Aryan Language: Assamese, spoken in Assam.
● Austro-Asiatic Language: Khasi, spoken in Meghalaya.
● Multi-Ethnic Languages in Sikkim: Nepali (Indo-Aryan), Gurung (Sino-Tibetan),
Lepcha (Austro-Asiatic).

Religion and Faith:

● Vaishnavism: Prominent in Assam and Manipur.
● Major Indigenous Faiths:
a. Donyi-Polo in Arunachal Pradesh.
b. Niam-tre in Meghalaya.
c. Buddhism and Shamanism among different tribes in Arunachal
Pradesh.
● Christianity: Major religion in Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Nagaland.

Festivals: Agricultural Festivals:

● Assam: Bihu (Bhogali Bihu and Kongali Bihu) - related to harvest and good
crops.
● Mizoram: Chapchar Kut, Mim Kut, Pawl Kuft - related to agriculture,
celebrated with the bamboo dance (Cheraw).
● Arunachal Pradesh: Various agricultural festivals celebrated by different
communities like Solung, Dree, Nokyum, Mopin, and Losar.
● Meghalaya: Shad Suk Mynsiem, Behdeinkham, Wangala - agricultural festivals
celebrated by Khasis, Jaintias, and Garos, respectively.

New Year Festivals:

● Assam: Rongali Bihu marks the New Year.
● Various tribes celebrate their New Year festivals like Baisagu, Busu, Rongker,
Ali-aye-Lrigang, Baikho, and Cheiraoba in different states.
Religious Festivals:
● Manipur: Lai Haraoba and Yaoshang (during Holi) are celebrated. Rath Yatra
(Kang Chingba) is also observed.
● Meghalaya: Rangkholi or 'Tiger Festival' is a religious festival celebrated in the
War-Jaintia region.

Dance:
● Manipuri Dance: Popular dance forms include Raas, Sankirtana, and Thang-Ta.
● Sattriya Dance: Introduced by Assamese saint reformer Sankaradeva.
● Other Traditional Dances are also prevalent across the region.

Musical Richness:
● Various traditional musical instruments used, such as long dama, bhor-taal,
bengbung, and bamboo Pena.

Handloom:
● Assam: Prominent handloom industry with a focus on silk-oriented products
like Muga silk and mekhela-chador.
● Bodo Tribe: Women weave dokhona and jwmgra, and men wear aronai.
● Manipur: Traditional fabrics include phanek and kasan, among others.
● Arunachal Pradesh: Women weave bilanabi, chinyu-abi, and jig-jiro, while
Nyishi women weave par-ij.

Conclusion:

The North-Eastern region of India comprising eight states exhibits remarkable

cultural and demographic diversity. Each state showcases its unique traditions,
languages, religions, festivals, dances, and handloom practices. The rich tapestry of
cultures in the region enhances its beauty and adds to India's diverse cultural
landscape.

The diversity of North India, protecting it and promoting the unique identity of each
state along with taking care of the needs of the states will promote the closeness
between all states and make India’s idea of looking east possible.

Q4. What do you understand by ‘social capital’? Examine its significance for a
diverse country like India. Isn’t social capital imperative for development?
Examine.

Introduction:
Social capital, popularised by Robert Putnam, refers to networks that encompass
shared norms, values, and understandings fostering cooperation among groups. It
plays a crucial role in maintaining the societal fabric and promoting collaborative
efforts. Social capital can be categorised into different types, each serving distinct
purposes.

Types of Social Capital:

1. Bonds:
● Links based on common identity, such as family, close friends, and people
sharing the same culture or ethnicity (homogenous groups).
2. Bridges:
● Links extending beyond shared identity, connecting distant friends,
colleagues, and associates (heterogeneous groups).
3. Linkages:
● Links connecting individuals or groups from different positions on the social
ladder.

Significance and Importance of Social Capital

1. Acts as a Glue and Lubricant:

● Social capital acts as both a "glue" holding societies together, enabling
cooperation, and as a "lubricant" facilitating smooth operations and getting
things done. For e.g. ethics, morals and religious values promote fraternity
in the society.

2. Contribution to Civil Society:

● Active civil society organisations advocate for common people's welfare,
such as HelpAge India, focused on assisting disadvantaged elderly.

3. Empowerment of Women:
● Women's organisations like Bhartiya Grameen Mahila Sangh and Nirbhaya
centres work towards socio-economic empowerment of women.

4. Self-Help Groups:
● Mobilise rural populations, foster entrepreneurship, and promote thrift
savings for socio-economic development. SHG success stories include
Kudumbashree in Kerala, Jeevika in Bihar, Mahila Arthik Vikas Mahamandal
in Maharashtra and recently, Looms of Ladakh are examples of socio
economic capital.
5. Education:
● Social capital contributes to improving education quality through active
involvement, like social audits of schools.

6. Health:
● Strong social capital reduces isolation caused by urban living and enhances
health service delivery, leading to improved mortality rates.

7. Crime Prevention:
● In traditional societies, social capital acts as a security system, with institutions
like gram sabha taking action against wrongdoers.

8. Environment:
● Community-based organisations preserve the environment and sustain
resources, exemplified by the protection of sacred groves.

9. Water Use and Sanitation:

● Social capital's role in Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is evident through
Swachhagrahis and active gram sabha participation.

10. Economic Development:

● Strong social capital enhances trade relations within and between nations,
fostering mutual economic growth.

Limitations of Social Capital

1. Decay: Social capital requires consistent effort to be sustained; otherwise, it

decays over time.
2. Lack of Equity: Unequal access to social capital exists, with the rich and politically
powerful holding more influence.
3. Lack of Individuality: Group norms can stifle personal creativity and growth.
4. Separatism: Excessive bonding social capital can lead to exclusivity and division,
as seen in certain regional conflicts.
5. Personal Political Gains: Strong social capital groups may overpower political
institutions, affecting policy decisions.

Conclusion:

Social capital is vital for societal functioning, but its balance between bonding and
bridging capital is essential for a harmonious and prosperous society. By addressing
the limitations and nurturing inclusive social capital, communities can work together
towards a cohesive and thriving future.

Q5. What steps can be taken to protect and preserve India's endangered languages
amidst the rich diversity they bring to our nation?

Introduction

● According to the census 1961, India has around 1652 languages. But by 1971,
only 808 languages were left.

● According to the People’s Linguistic Survey of India 2013, around 220

languages have been lost in the last 50 years and 197 has been categorised as
Endangered.

● Government of India currently defines a language as one that is marked by a

script and effectively neutering oral languages.

● Therefore, the government recognizes 122 languages which is far lower than
the 780 counted by the People's Linguistic Survey of India (along with a
further 100 suspected to exist). 42 Indian languages are recognized as
Critically Endangered.

● According to the People’s Linguistic Survey of India 2013, around 220

languages have been lost in the last 50 years and 197 has been categorised as
Endangered.

● The Ministry of Home Affairs recently completed the Mother Tongue Survey
of India (MTSI) with a field video of the country’s 576 languages.

● The Mother Tongue Survey of India is a project that surveys the mother
tongues which are returned consistently across two and more Census
decades. It also documents the linguistic features of the selected languages.

● The category “mother tongue” is a designation provided by the respondent,

but it need not be identical with the actual linguistic medium.

Causes for Language Decline:

1. GOI's Language Recognition Criteria: Language must have at least 10,000

speakers for recognition.
2. In and Out Migration: Dispersal of traditional settlements due to community
migration.

3. Changing Employment Patterns: Favouring majority languages, leading to

neglect of minority languages.

4. Shift in Social and Cultural Values: Impacting the importance and usage of
indigenous languages.

5. Growth of Individualism: Prioritising self-interest over the well-being of the

community.

6. Encroachment of Materialism: Consumerism overshadows spiritual, moral, and

ethical values in traditional communities.

Steps to Preserve Endangered Languages:

1. Development of Schools in Minority Languages:

○ Establish schools teaching in tribal and minority languages.
○ Empower speakers to preserve and enrich their languages.

2. Launching a Vast Digital Project:

○ Project similar to Project Tiger for preserving endangered languages.
○ Create digital repositories and resources for these languages.

3. Audio-Visual Documentation:
○ Documenting essential aspects of endangered languages:
○ Storytelling, folk literature, and historical narratives.
○ Recording and archiving oral traditions for future generations.

4. Leveraging Existing Initiatives:

○ Utilise the work of groundbreaking initiatives like Global Language
Hotspots.
○ Enhance documentation efforts through collaborative partnerships.

Conclusion:

● Urgent need to address the endangerment of Indian languages.

● Implementation of comprehensive measures to preserve linguistic diversity.

● Collective efforts required from government, communities, and organisations

to safeguard India's rich linguistic heritage.
PYQ’S:

1Q. In the context of diversity of India, can it be said that the regions form cultural
units rather than the states? Give reasons with examples for your viewpoint. (150
words) (2017) 10 M

2Q. Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative
significance in building a national identity. (2015) 12.5 M

Keywords:

1. Geographical Mosaic
2. Religious Melange
3. A Multicultural Treasure
4. Linguistic Kaleidoscope
5. Caste Complexity
6. Melting Pot of Races and Tribes
7. Unique Social Stratification
8. Racial Fusion
9. Melting Pot of Races and Tribes
10. India's Diverse Fabric
11. Modernization
12. Divisive Politics
13. Preserving Cultural Heritage
14. Ensuring Political Rights
15. Awareness Generation
16. Complex social milieu
17. Cultural and demographic diversity
18. Language Diversity
19. Social capital
Tribals

Q. Denotified Tribes are among the most vulnerable and deprived groups in India.
Discuss the various problems faced by them. Also, enumerate the steps taken by the
government for their upliftment.

Denotified Tribes (DNTs) are communities that were notified as being born criminals during
the British regime under Criminal Tribes Act, 1871. These communities were denotified, after
India got independence, by the Habitual Offenders Act, 1952, which repealed the Criminal
Tribes Act. Several DNTs were included in ST, SC and OBC lists. As per Renke
Commission, 2008, there are 198 DNTS in India.

Many commissions and committees constituted since Independence have referred to the
problems of these communities: These include
● The Criminal Tribes Inquiry Committee, 1947 constituted in UP
● Ananthasayanam Ayyangar Committee in 1949 (it was based on the report of this
committee the Criminal Tribes Act was repealed),
● Kaka Kalelkar Commission (also called first OBC Commission) constituted in 1953.
● The B P Mandal Commission constituted in 1980
● The National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC), 2002
held that DNTs have been wrongly stigmatised as crime prone and subjected to high
handed treatment as well as exploitation by the representatives of law and order and
general society.

These DNTs are among the most vulnerable and deprived community and faces several
problems like:

Lack of Basic Infrastructure Facilities: Like drinking water, shelter, and sanitation facilities
are not available to the communities. Healthcare and education facilities are also not
available. Historically, Nomadic Tribes and De-notified Tribes never had access to private
land or home ownership.

Identity Crisis:
● While most DNTs are spread across the Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes
(ST) and Other Backward Classes (OBC) categories, some DNTs are not covered in
any of the SC, ST or OBC categories.
● DNTs are not recognized as a separate social category in the Indian Constitution.
● Lack of uniform classification across the country creates confusion and disparities.
● Many DNTs are not covered under reserved categories, hindering their integration
into the mainstream population.

Miss Treatment by Local Administration: Due to the stigma of Criminals bestowed upon
them in the past, they are still treated as criminals and tortured by the local administration
and police.
Isolation: DNTs were forcibly relocated from their natural habitat, leading to exploitation and
denial of human rights, including the right to livelihood.

Lack of Social Security Cover: Since they are on move frequently, they do not have a
permanent settlement. As a result, they lack social security cover and are not issued Ration
Cards, adhar Card, etc. and hence, they are not getting benefits under the government
welfare schemes.

Lack of Data: Absence of reliable data on DNTs' population, geographical distribution, and
development indicators hampers effective policy planning.

Social Issues:
● Limited access to educational institutes and healthcare services.
● Illiteracy and lack of awareness prevent them from benefiting from affirmative action
programs.

Political Representation: DNTs lack leadership and the support of a national leader,
making it difficult for them to voice their concerns before policymakers.

Steps taken by the government for their upliftment:

● National Commission for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (NCDNT): It
was constituted by the Government of India to prepare a state-wise list of castes
belonging to De- notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes.
● Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for DNTS Boys and Girls: It is
a centrally sponsored scheme to improve the educational empowerment of the DNTS
who are not covered under SC/ST/OBC category. Funding pattern of State and
Centre is in the ratio of 25:75.
● Nanaji Deshmukh Scheme of construction of Hostels for DNTS Boys and Girls: The
Centrally sponsored scheme runs through State Governments/UT Administrations.
● Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNT Communities (SEED): Launched by the
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment to provide free competitive exam coaching
to DNTS students, provide health insurance to families, uplift clusters of DNTS
communities through livelihood initiatives, and provide financial assistance for
housing.
● Development and Welfare Board for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic
communities has been constituted in 2019.

The Parliamentary panel on Social Justice and Empowerment has asked the government to
expedite categorisation of Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes under either the
SC/ST/OBC lists.

Further, Article 330 and Article 332 of the Constitution should be amended to enable DNTS
to be eligible for reservation of seats in the House of People and Legislative assemblies of
the states. It is imperative to bring DNTS into mainstream society if India wants to achieve
the goal of inclusive development.
Q. What were the challenges faced in the integration of tribals with the mainstream
population post independence. What are the issues of current policy framework for
tribals?

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes explains a scheduled tribe is one with
Primitiveness, geographical isolation, shyness and social, educational & economic
backwardness due to these reasons are the traits that distinguish Scheduled Tribe
communities of our country from other communities.

The tribal population in India, though a numerically small minority, represents an enormous
diversity of groups. After independence, integrating the tribal population into the mainstream
posed significant challenges due to the diverse conditions in which they lived.

Tribal diversity in India:

● Tribals constitute 8.6 percent of India’s total population, about 104 million people
according to the 2011 census. This is the largest population of the tribal people in the
world.
● India has the privilege of hosting a variety of truly colourful, indigenous, equally
vibrant and culturally rich tribal people whose lifestyles, culture, religious beliefs,
traditions, rituals, dressing, food, language are so diverse that they represent an
anthropological wealth of heritage.
● There are over 700 tribal groups in India, out of which around 75 are Particularly
Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
● The “tribal belt” embraces central and northeast India, which extends across the
centre of India from Pakistan in the west to Bangladesh and Myanmar in the east.
The belt is home to millions of indigenous people, whose ancestors inhabited India
even before Aryans, the ancestors of Hindus, arrived around 1500 B.C.
● India is home to indigenous communities from all major races:
○ Negritos: First to arrive in India, particularly found in small provinces in the
south, Angami Nagas, Bagadi of Rajmahal hills.
○ Proto-Australoid: Bulk of the population in many isolated and semi-isolated
parts of central and southern India. For example: Central tribes- Bhils,
Mundas, Santhal, Ho, etc.
○ Mongoloid: Mainly found in northern and eastern frontiers. For example,
tribes of Garo, Khasi, Jaintia, Chakmas, etc.
○ Mediterranean: They came from the Mediterranean region largely connected
to the Dravidian language and culture. They are concentrated in South India.
○ Nordic: They constitute the last wave of migration. They spoke Aryan
languages. Mainly concentrated inthe north-western part.

Challenges of integrating tribals into the mainstream:

Relative isolation: Tribals residing in hilly and forest areas lived in relative isolation, having
distinct traditions, habits, and cultures compared to the non-tribal population.

Classification problem: Defining and classifying tribal groups for welfare measures and
affirmative actions was challenging due to their transitional nature. They were eventually
categorized based on population size, economic backwardness, and habitation in
inaccessible regions.

Conflict between governmental policies and tribal way of life: Forest laws restricted
tribals' access to forest products and banned shifting cultivation, leading to conflicts with
their traditional way of life.

Loss of confidence in the state: Colonial policies led to the invasion of tribal areas by
moneylenders, traders, and officials, disrupting their traditional lifestyle and causing a loss of
confidence in the government.

Demand for autonomy and secession: In the North-East, demands for political autonomy
arose, leading to secessionist movements in states like Mizoram and Nagaland after
reorganization in 1972.

Differing viewpoints regarding integration and autonomy of tribals:

Isolationist approach:
● Supporters of this approach claim tribals suffer oppression and exploitation from non-
tribals like businessmen and moneylenders.
● Presence of Christian missionaries in tribal regions threatens their culture.
● Proposes regulating or prohibiting entry of non-tribals into tribal regions.

Assimilation approach:
● Supporters of this approach argue that integrating tribals with the mainstream society
would lead to their progress.

Integrationist approach (Panchsheel principles by Jawaharlal Nehru):

● Tribals should develop based on their own genius, avoiding imposition of alien values.
● Tribal rights regarding land and forest should be respected.
● Training of tribals in administration and development should be prioritized.
● Avoid overwhelming tribal areas with multiple schemes.
● Success should be judged by the evolution of human character, not just statistics or
funding.

The aim of successive governments has been to make the tribals an integral part of the
Indian nation, while maintaining their distinct identity and culture. There are provisions within
the Constitution to protect the interests of the tribes such as Articles 46, 330, 332 etc.
Further, several tribal-specific initiatives such as Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana, Special Central
Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan, scholarships for tribal students etc. have been implemented.
Q. What are the major issues faced by the tribal communities of India? What
principles should be kept in mind for a policy framework aimed towards better
mainstreaming of tribals?

It is widely acknowledged that a large section of the tribal communities have not received the
full benefits of development processes undertaken over the past seven decades and
adversely affected by the developmental projects undertaken during this period.

Major issues faced by the tribal communities include:

Economic issues:
● Poverty:
○ According to the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, about
45% of the tribal households in India are below the poverty line.
○ According to MPI: The Scheduled Tribe group accounts for 9.4 per cent of the
population and is the poorest. They account for about one-sixth (17%) of all
people living in multidimensional poverty in India
○ 65 million of the 129 million people (that is 50.4%) are living in
multidimensional poverty. (34.7% for India overall as per MPI in 2019-2021)
● Exploitation and abandonment of traditional crafts: Exploitation by middlemen has led
many tribes to abandon their traditional handicrafts. For eg: Weaver tribes of Andhra
Pradesh
● The market economy has led to tribal production for the market rather than their own
needs.

Health issues:
● Life expectancy of tribals is 63.9 compared to the national average of 67 years.
● Under 5 mortality rate is 74 as against the national average of 62.
● 50% Adolescent ST girls are underweight with BMI below less than 18.5.
● About 80% of tribal children are undernourished and suffering from anaemia. While
40% under-five tribal children in India are stunted.
● Lack of health infrastructure, Shortage of healthcare personnel, Resistance to
western systems of medicine leading to inadequate vaccination and immunization
among tribal groups, Unhygienic and primitive practices

Education:
● According to data from the 2011 Census, the literacy rate among tribal people in
India was 59%, much lower than the 73% national average
● The medium of instruction in schools is a significant obstacle. Language barriers
hinder effective learning and communication.
● Children are often needed to support their parents' work and supplement income.
Availability of teachers in remote tribal areas is a recurring problem.

Security concerns:
● Many tribal areas face security challenges like Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) and
insurgency.
● Conflict and instability hinder educational opportunities and overall development.
Influx of outsiders: The influx of outsiders into tribal regions has created tensions and
challenges to tribal identity and rights. Examples include the Register of Indigenous
Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN).

Development induced displacement: Large-scale development projects like industry, mining,

infrastructure, and urbanization in tribal areas have resulted in massive displacement and
loss of livelihood for tribes.

Misuse of protective law: Laws meant to protect tribes are often manipulated to serve
corporate interests. For example: Companies Indian and foreign are often found in violation
of the Benefit sharing clauses of Biodiversity Act.

Current policy towards tribals include the following constitutional provisions and acts:

Constitutional provisions:
● Article 46 promotes educational and economic interests of tribal people and protects
them from social injustice and exploitation through special legislation.
● Fifth and Sixth Schedules: Administration and control of Scheduled and Tribal Areas.
● Governors of states with tribal areas have special responsibility to protect tribal
interests, modify laws, and frame regulations for land and protection from
moneylenders.
● Full political rights granted to tribal people, including reservation in legislatures and
administrative services like Scheduled Castes.
● Tribal Advisory Councils established in states with tribal areas to advise on tribal
welfare matters.
● National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) established through the
Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.

Statutes:
● Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 - punishes "Untouchability"
● Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 -
prevents atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
● Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 -
extends Panchayat provisions to Scheduled Areas.
● Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest
Rights) Act, 2006 - recognizes forest rights of tribal and traditional forest dwellers.

Following principles and recommendations should be kept in mind while drafting a new
policy for integrating the tribal people in Indian society and making them an integral part of
the Indian nation, even while maintaining their distinct identity and culture.

1. Xaxa Committee recommendations: The Prime Minister’s Office constituted a High-Level

Committee (HLC) in 2013, under chairmanship of Prof. Virginius Xaxa. The Committee was
mandated to examine the socio-economic, educational and health status of tribal
communities and recommend appropriate interventional measures to improve the same.

2. Tribal Panchsheel refers to a set of principles laid down by Jawahar Lal Nehru:
 1. Respect tribal identity and preserve their culture and traditions.
2. Protect the rights of tribals regarding land and forests.
3. Train tribals in administrative and developmental work for meaningful participation.
4. Focus development efforts on improving human well-being.
5. Emphasize targeted and measurable progress in tribal development.

3. Self-determination: Utilisation of the unique culture, practices, traditions and knowledge of

tribals for their development rather than imposing the outsider idea of development to them.
For example:
● Economy and Entrepreneurship:
○ Tribals possess valuable knowledge of ancient herbs, plants, and natural
products, contributing to India's economic growth.
○ In Mendha Lekha, a tribal village in Maharashtra, the Gond tribe cultivates
bamboo for the paper industry, generating substantial profits used for
development and welfare.
○ Kerala's tribes collect and sell wild honey, with significant export potential for
honey products.
● Art and Culture:
○ Tribal handicrafts are highly sought after worldwide for their precision and
craftsmanship.
○ The Dhokra Damar tribes of West Bengal and Odisha are renowned for their
Dhokra metal artifacts, exported to over 100 countries.
● Knowledge of Medicinal Plants:
○ Maharashtra's tribes collect and process medicinal plants, earning significant
revenue through platforms like Tribes India website.

India's rich tribal diversity is a valuable asset to our cultural heritage. Merely imposing
modern concepts may not necessarily improve their lives. For instance, tribal communities
often exhibit better sex ratios, indicating their progressive mindset and actions. The focus
should be on creating an inclusive environment that ensures equal opportunities for
individuals from tribal backgrounds, empowering them to fully benefit from available
opportunities.

Keywords
1. Denotified, Nomadic, Semi-Nomadic Tribes
2. Tribal diversity
3. Cultural Isolation, Assimilation, Integration
4. Tribal Panchsheel
5. Development Induced Displacement
6. Left Wing Extremism
7. Xaxa committee
8. Indigenous knowledge
9. Customary forest rights
Mains PYQs
1. Given the diversities among the tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts
should they be considered as a single category? (Answer in 150 words) - 2022

2. Examine the uniqueness of the tribal knowledge system when compared to mainstream
knowledge and cultural system.- 2021

3. Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major
provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. - 2016

4. How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more
favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes? - 2015