Integration of tribals with the mainstream population post-independence was a difficult task due to multiple challenges and differing viewpoints. Elaborate. (250 Words, 15 Marks) (GS-1 Modern History)

Introduction

• The task of integrating the tribal people into the mainstream was extremely complex as they live under varied conditions in different parts of the country, with their different languages and distinct cultures.

Body

Challenges of Tribal Integration

• Relative isolation: Tribals of India reside mostly in the hilly and forest areas.
• Their tradition, habits, culture etc. are different from that of the non-tribal population.
• Classification problem: Tribal groups as a whole are not a static community but a community in transition.
• It was necessary for them to benefit from welfare measures and affirmative actions.
• Conflict between governmental policies and tribal way of life:
  • Forest laws banned shifting cultivation.
  • Put restrictions regarding the use of forest and access to forest products.
• Loss of confidence in the state: Due to colonial policies of exploitation, the tribals lost confidence in the state.
• Demand of autonomy and secession:
  • The non-Assamese felt that the Assamese government was imposing Assamese language on them. (Prior 1972).
  • Secessionist movements in Mizoram, Nagaland etc. post reorganisation in 1972.

Differing Viewpoints Regarding Tribal Integration

• Isolationist approach: Entry of non-tribals should be regulated or prohibited in tribal regions as their culture gets disturbed.
• Assimilation approach: Integration of tribals with the mainstream society would result in their progress.
• Integrationist approach: Jawaharlal Nehru formulated the middle path principle.

Efforts for Tribal Integration

• Provisions within the Constitution to protect the interests of the tribes such as Articles 29, 46, 330, 332 etc.
• Several tribal-specific initiatives such as:
  • Vandhan Yojana.
  • Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan.
  • Residential schools for tribal students like Ashram schools etc.

Way Forward (Tribal Panchsheel)

• They should develop along the lines of their own genius and the imposition of alien values should be avoided.
• Tribal rights regarding land and forest should be respected.
• Team of tribals should be trained in the work of administration and development.
• Tribal areas should not be administered or overwhelmed with a multiplicity of schemes.
• Results of any scheme should be judged not by statistics or the amount of money spent, but by the human character that is evolved.

Conclusion

The elevation of Smt. Droupadi Murmu, a tribal leader, to the position of President of India in 2022 has significantly strengthened tribal integration efforts, symbolizing greater representation and empowerment of tribal communities in mainstream Indian polity, advancing the vision of inclusive development.