The University of Rajasthan (UoR), Jaipur, recently hosted a National Seminar on “Tribals of India: In Search of Identity” (NSTP-2025). Dr. G.L. Meena, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics, UoR organized the seminar. The seminar brought together renowned scholars, activists, and policymakers to discuss the challenges faced by tribal communities in India and potential solutions for their empowerment. This conference was attended by Ms. Medha Patkar, Environmentalist & Social Activist, Key Note Speaker and around 60 scholars from across the country.
Key Highlights
– Tribal Development:
Prof. Ramdas Rupavath, an expert on tribal identity and movements from Department of Political Science, University of Hyderabad, delivered the valedictory address, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of tribal development that goes beyond economic growth. The developmental schemes and protective measures led to the weakening of the tribal population.
– Socio-Economic and Political Structures:
The seminar explored the socio-economic and political structures that have forced tribals to organize themselves and fight for their rights, including alienation from land, natural resources, and cultural oppression.
– Impact of Development:
The discussion emphasized the impact of development projects on tribal communities, including displacement, loss of livelihoods, and cultural identity.
Challenges and Opportunities
-New Economic Policy 1991:
The seminar highlighted the risks of displacement and exploitation of natural resources in tribal areas, particularly with the implementation of the New Economic Policy 1991.
– New Education Policy 2020:
The discussion also touched upon the challenges in implementing the New Education Policy 2020 in remote tribal areas, where resources and trained teachers are limited. According to the Statistics on School Education, the dropout rate among tribal students is high.
– Inclusive Development:
The seminar emphasized the need for inclusive development that takes into account the diverse vernacular problems of tribes and prioritizes citizen-centric principles.
The National Seminar on “Tribals of India: In Search of Identity” was a significant step towards promoting academic discourse and discussion on the challenges faced by tribal communities in India. The seminar highlighted the need for a nuanced understanding of tribal development and the importance of inclusive policies that prioritize the needs and rights of tribal communities.