Topic 11

Answer

Introduction

Tribals are the forest dwellers having their own identity, lifestyle, culture, and language living in groups for sustenance.

As per Census 2011, about 8.4% of the Indian population is tribal in existence. Some of the tribes trace their origin to the Indus valley civilization. But tribes are the most neglected population from the colonial era to modern times.

Body

Means of Exclusion

Tribal stay in hinterland areas isolated from the mainstream society. They have faced issues since the colonial era and still, the issues remain unaddressed. They are discriminated against, exploited, and excluded in multiple forms like,

• Social exclusion: Tribes are excluded in multiple forms like denial of rental homes which forces them to slums, used as scapegoat in petty crimes etc.
• Political exclusion: Tribes are provided certain statutory and constitutional provisions which are hijacked by dominant groups. This was seen recently in Karnataka where Talwar community was denied a reserved seat despite the union government passing the bill.
• Economic exclusion: Forced eviction of tribes impacts their income. This is mainly due to 20 to 40% of primary income depending on Minor Forest Produce (MFP).
• Cultural exclusion: Tribes are treated by few as “Backward Hindus” and thus tend to get assimilated. This leads to loss of tribal identity and culture. Asur tribes have started radio stations to conserve their language.
• Administrative apathy: Lack of sympathy is observed in local administration towards tribes due to their low politico-economic reach. The decisions of the Gram Sabha have been undermined the administration.

Significance of PM-VDY:

• Economic significance: Tribal derives 40% of their income from Minor Forest Produce (MFP) and as per TRIFED it has the potential of creating 10 million workdays annually in the country.
• Social significance: Tribal women are major breadwinners to many matrilineal tribal households. This scheme based on SHG (Self Help Group) helps this social structure for the upliftment of local women and women empowerment in the larger context. As Tribals observe the true nature of government intent the Naxal activities can be reduced.
• Cultural significance: Tribals inherit the knowledge of food, medicine, construction material from ancient ages. The commercialization of such products will ensure the preservation of cultural knowledge and its promotion.
• Entrepreneurship culture: Recently Amazon and TRIFED collaborated to promote the MFP on the e-commerce sites. In no time Bomaki, Ikta sarees, Dokra metal work gained prominence. These promote indigenous startups far from urban spaces. This further reduces migration.
• Administrative reforms: The Collector is made head of Van Dhan Vikas Kendra’s and he is the chief coordinator. This reduces the traditional tussle between the administration and tribals by frequent communication.

Conclusion:

• PM-Van Dhan Yojana will act as an important milestone in the development of tribals. This will further reduce the diversion of tribal youth towards anti-state activities and help in better integration with mainstream society.
• Inclusion is part of our Directive Principles and tribal inclusion is a major pillar for united India.