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Research Paper | Sociology | Volume 15 Issue 4, April 2026 | Pages: 546 - 549 | India
Tribal Development and Challenges in India
Abstract: The oldest inhabitant of the planet and protector of Mother Nature, the tribal community, is witness to changes through millenniums. The repository of ancient knowledge, flora and fauna and closeness to environment helped them to survive and prosper through millennia. They have been referred as Scheduled Tribes (ST), Adivasis, Tribals or indigenious peoples. Tribals are spread across the length and breadth of the country with majority found in central and eastern parts of the country. From just few in numbers in Andaman & Nicobar Islands to millions in central India, the tribal diversity in India is varied and fascinating. The tribal community is in different stages of development and integration in the country. However, even after 75 years of independence, they are besieged with problems about basic necessity, education, health etc. Reports by various governments, non- government agencies and independent reporters have identified the issues of poverty, malnutrition, unemployment, low education, high dropout, health hazards and unsympathetic attitude of government towards the tribal community. The surge in developmental projects, increased industrialization and demand for minerals (abundantly found in tribal areas) has displaced millions of tribals without proper and adequate rehabilitation. The alienation from land, cultural-setting and natural surroundings has impacted drastically the well being of tribal community and created an identity crisis for them. The present paper highlights the issues faced by tribals, their protection and welfare and tries to interweave the tribal development with sustainable development goals.
Keywords: Tribal communities in India, indigenous knowledge, displacement and rehabilitation issues, poverty, health challenges, sustainable tribal development
How to Cite?: Dr. Sadiq Bagwan, "Tribal Development and Challenges in India", Volume 15 Issue 4, April 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 546-549, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26407121442, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26407121442