Scheduled Tribes in India - Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India form an essential part of the country's cultural diversity and social structure. Recognized under the Constitution of India, these tribes are provided with special provisions to promote their welfare and development. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Scheduled Tribes in India, including their distribution across states and key aspects of their socio-economic background.
What Are Scheduled Tribes?
Scheduled Tribes are communities recognized by the Indian Constitution as socially and economically disadvantaged groups. These communities are identified based on their distinctive culture, geographical isolation, backwardness, and other factors. Articles 341 and 342 of the Constitution empower the President of India to designate certain tribes as Scheduled Tribes.
The recognition of Scheduled Tribes aims to ensure their access to social, educational, and economic benefits through affirmative action policies such as reservation in education, employment, and political representation.
Criteria for Recognition as Scheduled Tribes
While there is no specific definition of Scheduled Tribes, certain criteria are used to identify them:
- Primitive traits and distinct culture.
- Geographical isolation.
- Economic backwardness.
- Lack of adequate representation in social and political spheres.
Geographical Distribution of Scheduled Tribes
India is home to over 700 Scheduled Tribes, constituting about 8.6% of the total population (Census 2011). The distribution of these tribes varies significantly across different states and union territories.
Scheduled Tribes by Region
1. Northeast India
The Northeast is home to numerous tribes with unique cultures and traditions. Key tribes include:
- Assam: Bodo, Mishing, Karbi, Dimasa, Rabha
- Arunachal Pradesh: Nyishi, Apatani, Adi, Galo, Monpa
- Meghalaya: Khasi, Garo, Jaintia
- Nagaland: Angami, Ao, Sema, Lotha, Chang
- Manipur: Tangkhul, Paite, Thadou, Hmar
- Tripura: Tripuri, Reang, Chakma
- Mizoram: Lushai, Ralte, Pawi
2. Central India
Central India has the highest concentration of Scheduled Tribes. Key tribes include:
- Madhya Pradesh: Bhil, Gond, Korku, Baiga, Sahariya
- Chhattisgarh: Halba, Maria, Muria, Oraon
- Jharkhand: Santhal, Munda, Ho, Oraon, Kharia
- Odisha: Kondh, Santal, Saora, Juang, Bonda
3. Western India
Scheduled Tribes in Western India primarily reside in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Key tribes include:
- Rajasthan: Bhil, Garasia, Damor, Meena
- Gujarat: Bhil, Rathwa, Dhodia, Halpati
- Maharashtra: Warli, Bhil, Gond, Katkari
4. Southern India
The tribal population in South India is concentrated in hilly and forested regions. Key tribes include:
- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: Koya, Chenchu, Lambada, Yerukala
- Karnataka: Soliga, Yerava, Koraga
- Tamil Nadu: Toda, Kota, Irula, Kurumba
- Kerala: Paniya, Kurichiya, Irular
5. Northern and Western Himalayan Regions
- Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh: Gujjar, Bakarwal, Balti
- Himachal Pradesh: Gaddi, Kinnaura, Lahauli
- Uttarakhand: Jaunsari, Bhotia, Tharu
The indigenous tribes here include the Great Andamanese, Jarwa, Onge, and Sentinalese.
Major Tribes of India - Cultural Diversity, Regions & Heritage
Prominent Tribes in India
1. Gond Tribe
The Gonds are one of the largest tribal groups in India, primarily found in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra. Known for their vibrant culture, they are also famous for their Gond art.
2. Bhil Tribe
The Bhils are predominantly found in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. They are skilled archers and are known for their rich folklore.
3. Santhal Tribe
One of the most prominent tribes in Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha, the Santhals are known for their agrarian lifestyle and unique music and dance forms.
4. Khasi Tribe
The Khasi people are an indigenous tribe of Meghalaya and follow a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance are traced through women.
5. Toda Tribe
The Toda tribe of Tamil Nadu is known for its traditional shawls, dairy-based livelihood, and sustainable architecture.
Government Schemes and Policies for Scheduled Tribes
The Government of India has implemented various schemes to uplift the socio-economic status of Scheduled Tribes. Key initiatives include:
- Reservation Policies: Reserved seats in educational institutions, government jobs, and legislatures.
- Integrated Tribal Development Programme (ITDP): Focuses on providing basic amenities like education, healthcare, and infrastructure in tribal areas.
- Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana: Aims at holistic development and livelihood improvement for tribal communities.
- Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Provides quality education to tribal children in remote areas.
- Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP): Allocates funds for the development of Scheduled Tribes under various ministries.
Challenges Faced by Scheduled Tribes
Despite constitutional safeguards, Scheduled Tribes continue to face several challenges:
- Economic Backwardness: Limited access to economic resources and employment opportunities.
- Lack of Education: High dropout rates and low literacy levels among tribal children.
- Healthcare Issues: Inadequate access to healthcare services, leading to high rates of malnutrition and disease.
- Displacement: Large-scale displacement due to infrastructure projects like dams, mining, and industries.
- Loss of Cultural Identity: Rapid modernization and urbanization threaten traditional tribal cultures and languages.
The Road Ahead
While the government has taken significant steps to empower Scheduled Tribes, a lot more needs to be done to ensure their holistic development. Community-driven initiatives, increased representation, and enhanced education and healthcare facilities can help bridge the gap and provide equitable opportunities for these communities.
FAQs: Scheduled Tribes in India
How are Scheduled Tribes identified in India?
Scheduled Tribes are identified based on criteria like geographical isolation, primitive traits, distinct culture, and socio-economic backwardness.Which state has the highest tribal population in India?
Madhya Pradesh has the highest tribal population in India, followed by Maharashtra and Odisha.What benefits do Scheduled Tribes receive?
Scheduled Tribes receive benefits such as reservation in education and jobs, access to welfare schemes, free healthcare, and subsidized housing.How many Scheduled Tribes are there in India?
India officially recognizes over 700 Scheduled Tribes spread across various states and union territories.What is the significance of Scheduled Tribes in India's culture?
Scheduled Tribes contribute significantly to India's cultural heritage through their unique traditions, languages, art forms, and sustainable practices.This comprehensive guide provides a detailed insight into the Scheduled Tribes of India, their distribution, and the challenges they face. By understanding their contributions and struggles, we can work collectively toward their upliftment and inclusion in mainstream society.
Explore related topics:
