A tribe is a social group with a common culture, language, and customs. Tribes are often geographically confined. They may consist of various sub-groups. Tribals in India are referred to as ‘Adivasi’. This term denotes indigenous communities believed to be the original inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent.
Constitutional Recognition
The Constitution of India recognises tribes under ‘Schedule 5’. Tribes listed in this schedule are termed ‘Scheduled Tribes‘ (STs). This recognition ensures certain legal protections and rights for these communities.
Legal Provisions for Tribal Welfare
Several laws protect the rights of tribal communities:
- Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955: Prevents discrimination against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
- Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: Safeguards against atrocities faced by these communities.
- Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996: Extends Panchayat provisions to tribal areas.
- Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006: Recognises forest rights of tribal communities.
Demographics of Tribal Communities
According to the 2011 census, tribals constitute 8.6% of India’s population. There are 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) identified. Odisha has the highest number of tribal communities, with 62 distinct groups.
Criteria for Identifying PVTGs
The Government of India uses specific criteria to identify PVTGs:
- Pre-agricultural technology.
- Low literacy levels.
- Economic backwardness.
- Declining or stagnant population.
Key Committees on Tribal Issues
Several committees have addressed tribal issues:
- Kaka Kalelkar Commission (1953): Defined Scheduled Tribes and their unique existence.
- Elwin Committee (1959): Examined tribal development programmes.
- N. Dhebar Commission (1960): Addressed land alienation issues.
- Lokur Committee (1965): Reviewed criteria for defining Scheduled Tribes.
- Bhuria Committee (1991): Recommended the PESA Act, 1996.
- Xaxa Committee: Assessed socio-economic status and recommended improvements.
Changes in Tribal Society
Tribal societies are undergoing changes:
- Changing Lifestyles: Urban proximity leads to modern lifestyle adoption.
- Language Loss: Many tribal languages face extinction due to urbanisation.
- Declining Egalitarian Values: Economic classes are emerging, particularly among labourers.
Major Issues Faced by Tribals
Tribal communities encounter numerous challenges:
- Land Rights: Land alienation due to development projects and mining.
- Poverty: Limited access to livelihood opportunities and infrastructure.
- Education and Healthcare: Poor access to quality education and healthcare services.
- Forest Rights: Conflicts between conservation efforts and tribal rights.
- Social Discrimination: Tribal communities face marginalisation and stigma.
Case Studies of Tribal Conflicts
Two notable conflicts illustrate the challenges faced by tribal communities:
- Polavaram Dam Conflict: Koya and Kondh tribes oppose the dam due to land rights violations.
- Forest Rights Act Violation: Amendments to forest rules threaten tribal consent in land diversion.
Constitutional Articles Related to Tribals
Several articles in the Constitution specifically address tribal rights:
- Article 16(4): Reservation in appointments for backward classes.
- Article 244(1): Administration of Scheduled Areas.
- Article 46: Promotes educational and economic interests of SCs and STs.
- Article 23: Prohibits bonded labour and trafficking.
- Article 15(4): Special provisions for educational advancement of STs.
Social and Economic Rights of Tribals
Tribal rights encompass various social and economic aspects:
- Employment Opportunities: Promotion of skill development in tribal regions.
- Legal Protection: Implementation of the Forest Rights Act for land security.
- Inclusive Development: Development projects must involve local communities.
Measures for Tribal Welfare
To enhance the welfare of tribal communities, several measures are necessary:
- Preservation of Culture: Encourage traditional practices and protect cultural heritage.
- Community Empowerment: Involve tribes in decision-making processes.
- Awareness Campaigns: Educate officials and the public about tribal rights.
- Rehabilitation and Compensation: Ensure fair compensation for displaced tribes.
- Improving Infrastructure: Build schools and healthcare facilities in tribal areas.
Future Directions for Tribal Development
To secure a better future for tribal communities:
- Skill Development: Promote vocational training to enhance employability.
- Healthcare Initiatives: Improve access to medical facilities and health education.
- Protection of Isolated Tribes: Enforce policies to safeguard their autonomy.
FAQs on Tribal Issues in India
- What are the Articles for Tribals? Articles 15(4), 46, and 244(1) address tribal rights.
- Who are called Tribals in India? Indigenous communities with distinct cultural identities.
- What is the Tribal System of India? It encompasses governance, customs, and social structures of tribes.
Conclusion
This overview marks the complexities surrounding tribal communities in India. About their rights, issues, and cultural significance is essential for promoting their welfare and ensuring their voices are heard.
