Jarawa Tribe’s

Why in the News?

19 members of the Jarawa Tribe from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been included in India’s electoral roll for the first time. This marks a historic moment in the tribal inclusion process, as these members will now have the right to vote in the national elections. The inclusion represents a step toward bringing this marginalized community into the political mainstream.

Who are the Jarawa Tribe?

• The Jarawa Tribe is one of the indigenous tribes living in the Andaman Islands.
• Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) by the Indian government, they are one of the most isolated tribes in the world.
• Their population is estimated to be between 250 to 400 individuals, mostly residing in the Middle and South Andaman Islands.
• Historically, they are believed to be descendants of the Jangil Tribe, now extinct, and their ancestors are considered part of the early human migrations out of Africa.

Traditional Life and Culture of the Jarawa Tribe

• Traditional Livelihood: Historically, they have been hunter-gatherers and fishermen, living off the land and sea with a minimalistic lifestyle and highly adaptive skills suited to their tropical environment.
• Physical and Nutritional Health: Known for their robust physiques and excellent health, their lifestyle—directly tied to nature—has kept them in strong physical condition.
• Hunter-Gatherers and Warriors: The Jarawas have earned a reputation as fierce protectors of their territory. Their knowledge of the forest and ocean is crucial to their survival, with traditional tools and techniques passed down through generations.
• Minimalistic Clothing: Their traditional attire is suited to the tropical climate—functional and simple, using natural materials to protect from heat and humidity.

Historical Context and Impact of Colonization of the Jarawa Tribe

• British Colonial Presence: The Jarawa Tribe’s population faced a drastic decline after the British established a colonial presence in the Andaman Islands in 1789. They were exposed to diseases and violence during this period, leading to significant loss of life.
• Survival Through Centuries: Despite facing threats during colonialism and World War II, the Jarawas survived, maintaining their traditions and resilience. Their isolated existence continued until more recent decades when contact with the outside world increased.

Government Efforts for Protection and Inclusion of the Jarawa Tribe

• Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act (2006): The government has recognized the Jarawa Tribe as part of India’s Scheduled Tribes (ST), offering them legal protections under this act.
• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has worked toward providing welfare schemes, including healthcare, education, and economic assistance, while also promoting tribal autonomy.
• The Andaman and Nicobar Tribal Welfare department ensures the protection of the tribe’s land, habitat, and resources, trying to prevent encroachments by non-tribal populations.
• Restricted Contact with Outsiders: In order to protect the Jarawa Tribe’s isolation, the government has imposed strict restrictions on tourism and outsider access to their territory. The Jarawa Tribal Reserve has been established, where only authorized personnel, such as healthcare providers, can enter.

Tourism Regulations: In 2002, the government banned organized tours that entered the Jarawa’s habitat to prevent exploitative tourism that could harm their health, culture, and well-being. However, limited and controlled tourism is allowed for educational and research purposes.

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