The upcoming 16th Census of India, scheduled for 2026-27, will include a detailed enumeration of indigenous tribes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This census marks the first nationwide caste enumeration since 1931. The Central Government’s ongoing welfare initiatives and established contacts with these tribes have paved the way for a smoother census process. This article outlines key aspects of the tribal population, government efforts, and challenges ahead.
Indigenous Tribes of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The islands are home to six main indigenous tribes – Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, Sentinelese, Nicobarese, and Shompen. Except for the Nicobarese, all are classified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). These tribes have unique lifestyles, often hunter-gatherers or small nomadic communities, with limited contact with the outside world.
Population Trends and Census Challenges
The Jarawa tribe’s population has grown from an estimated 260 in 1998 to 647 in 2025, showing steady growth due to improved healthcare and trust-building. The 2011 Census recorded 380 Jarawas and a total of 28,530 Scheduled Tribe individuals across the islands. Estimating PVTG populations remains difficult due to their remote locations and limited interactions, complicating targeted welfare delivery.
Government Welfare and Healthcare Initiatives
The Central Government has implemented sustained medical support for these tribes, addressing diseases like measles, malaria, and hepatitis without disrupting traditional medicinal practices. Proactive healthcare coverage has helped reduce mortality and improve life expectancy, now averaging over 50 years in some tribes. Schemes such as PM-JANMAN target PVTG households to ensure focused development.
Role of Contact and Trust in Tribal Welfare
Meaningful contact with tribes, especially the Jarawas, has been critical in improving health outcomes and population growth. Trust has allowed officials better access to these communities, facilitating welfare schemes and preparing for comprehensive census enumeration. Satellite imagery and improved data collection methods have enhanced the accuracy of population estimates.
Impact of Infrastructure on Tribal Life
The Andaman Trunk Road (ATR) connects various parts of the islands but poses risks of intrusion into tribal territories. While the ATR benefits hundreds of thousands in the region, it brings tribes closer to external influences. Regulating traffic on the ATR is essential to balance local convenience and tribal protection, preserving their isolation and traditional lifestyle.
Preservation of Tribal Lifestyle and Health
Tribes like the Jarawas show minimal incidence of modern lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Normal childbirth and natural immunity remain strong. Government policy aims to supplement traditional medicine with modern healthcare only when necessary, avoiding interference in cultural practices. This approach supports tribal survival and well-being.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the challenges and strategies involved in conducting a census among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups in India with suitable examples.
- Comment on the impact of infrastructure development on indigenous communities in India and suggest measures to balance development and tribal protection.
- Explain the role of healthcare interventions in improving the demographic profile of isolated tribal populations and discuss the ethical considerations involved.
- What are the implications of integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems in tribal welfare? How can policy ensure respect for indigenous knowledge while promoting health?
