Q. What are the definitional problems involved in identifying tribes in India? Discuss the main obstacles to tribal development in India.

Model Answer:

Identification and Development of tribes

The identification and development of tribes in India present complex sociological and administrative challenges, rooted in historical, cultural, and political factors. The term “tribe” itself is contested, with anthropologists like Verrier Elwin highlighting the fluidity of tribal identities and the dangers of stereotyping.

Definitional problems in identifying tribes:

1. Heterogeneity: Indian tribes vary greatly in language, culture, and socioeconomic status, making a uniform definition difficult.

2. Colonial legacy: The concept of “tribe” has colonial origins, often used to signify “primitive” societies. Scholars like G.S. Ghurye criticized this classification for perpetuating stereotypes.

3. Criteria ambiguity: The Constitution lists Scheduled Tribes but provides no clear identification criteria. The Lokur Committee (1965) suggested subjective and outdated criteria like primitive traits and geographical isolation.

4. Socioeconomic changes: Modernization has altered traditional tribal lifestyles, complicating classification.

Main obstacles to tribal development:

1. Land alienation: Displacement due to development projects like the Sardar Sarovar Dam has affected thousands of tribal families without adequate rehabilitation.

2. Limited access to services: Inadequate infrastructure in remote areas hinders access to education and healthcare. Tribal literacy rates remain significantly below the national average.

3. Economic exploitation: Vulnerability to moneylenders and traders due to lack of formal financial access leads to debt traps and poverty.

4. Cultural assimilation pressures: Policies promoting assimilation rather than integration threaten tribal identities and traditions.

5. Policy implementation gaps: Despite protective legislation like the Forest Rights Act (2006), weak implementation and bureaucratic hurdles impede tribals from exercising their rights.

6. Political marginalization: Limited political representation results in inadequate attention to tribal issues in policymaking.

In conclusion, addressing definitional ambiguities and development obstacles requires nuanced policies that respect tribal diversity while empowering communities.