The recent news of Covid-19 cases amongst the members of the Great Andamanese tribe has raised serious concerns. This is due to their low population, which could potentially be further decimated by the pandemic. The tribe is based in ‘Strait Island’ of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with a population of only 51 as per a 2012 study by the Andaman Adim Janjati Vikas Samiti.
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group Status
The Great Andamanese are one among five Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) residing in the Andaman archipelago, along with the Jarwas, Onges, Shompens, and North Sentinelese. Notably, the Shompen tribe is the only group in the region that possess Mongoloid features, contrasting the other PVTGs that display Negroid characteristics. Some tribes, including the Andamanese, interact with the ‘Great Nicobarese’, a Scheduled Tribe.
Throughout history, rapidly declining population numbers of these primitive tribes have been observed. Past epidemics and health crises have disproportionately impacted these indigenous groups, highlighting their vulnerability. In total, the Ministry of Home Affairs has categorized 75 tribal groups as PVTGs, for whom the Ministry of Tribal Affairs implements the exclusive ‘Development of PVTGs’ scheme based on Article 366 (25) of the Constitution.
The Great Andamanese Tribe: Historical Overview
Before the arrival of British settlers in the 19th century, over 5,000 Great Andamanese individuals inhabited the islands. However, with the arrival of foreign settlers came conflict and disease. Hundreds of tribe members were killed defending their territories from British invasion. Meanwhile, thousands more perished due to outbreaks of measles, influenza, and syphilis, which devastated the indigenous population.
The Present Day Challenges
Now, the tribe faces a fresh threat in the form of the Covid-19 pandemic. Given their small population and historical susceptibility to diseases, the recently reported cases may have severe implications for their future survival. Earlier epidemics provide a grim reminder of the potential devastation that could ensue. As such, the current situation necessitates immediate attention and intervention to protect this vulnerable group.
Efforts Towards Protection and Development
In addressing these challenges, the role of government bodies becomes paramount. Both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs hold crucial roles in ensuring the survival and development of these groups. The Constitution provides specific provisions to define and protect Scheduled Tribes, upon which several development schemes are based.
The ‘Development of PVTGs’ initiative represents one such effort, exclusively targeting these at-risk groups. However, the consistency and effectiveness of these measures in preserving the tribes and their cultures amidst increasing external pressures including epidemics, remains to be seen.
Understanding Interactions With Other Tribes
Interactions between different tribal groups could potentially serve as avenues for both cultural exchange and disease transmission. The Great Andamanese’s interactions with the ‘Great Nicobarese’, a Scheduled Tribe, highlight this complex dynamic. Studying these interactions can provide insights into the causes and solutions for the health crises and other challenges faced by these tribes.
Ultimately, the survival of the Great Andamanese tribe and similar indigenous communities depends largely on a careful balance between external intervention and preservation of their unique cultures and lifestyles.
