There are two types of tribes in India. They are classified as per their two traits. These two traits are known as “acquired traits” and “permanent traits”. This article will share insightful information on the types or classification of tribes and a few major tribes of India.
Types of Tribes – Based on Permanent Traits
The permanent traits which are used for the classification of tribal societies are ecological habitat, language, region, and physical characteristics.
Types of Tribes – Based on Acquired Traits
The types of tribes based on acquired traits are further divided based on livelihood and based on the extent of incorporation into Hindu society.
Types of Tribes – Based on Livelihood
Based on livelihood, tribes can be categorised as plantation and industrial workers, peasants, shifting cultivators, hunters, food gatherers, and fishermen.
Types of Tribes – Based on Incorporation into Hindu Society
The dominant classification of tribes in public affairs, politics, and academic sociology is based on the degree of assimilation into Hindu society.
Tribal Population – Indian States
A majority of the tribal population is concentrated in the states of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, parts of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Approximately 85% of the total tribal population is concentrated in central India. In the states of Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, the concentration of tribal population ranges from 60% to 95%.
Some of the Major Tribes of India
As per the census of 2011, the total number of tribes in India is 705. Very brief information related to some of the major tribes is given below:
Bhils
- Bhils are one of the largest tribal groups living in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan.
- The name Bhils is derived from the word ‘bhilu’ which means bow.
- They are experts in archery and guerilla warfare.
- Bhils are now employed as sculptors, agricultural labourers, and farmers.
Mundas
- Munda tribes are spread across Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Tripura, and West Bengal.
- The most important festival observed by Mundas is Magha or Ba.
- Mundas observe many festivals and they are fond of music and dance.
Santhal
- Santhals are one of the oldest tribes in India.
- Santhals are spread across Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal.
- Manjhi-Paragana is the Santhal system of governance.
Gond
- Gond is one of the largest tribal groups in the world.
- Gonds are found in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and many other states of India.
- Gonds are subdivided into 4 tribes known as Khatulwar Gonds, Dhurve Gonds, Madia Gonds, and Raj Gonds.
- Kodo and Kutki (two kinds of millets) are the staple food of Gonds.
Related Links
- Scheduled Tribes and State-Wise List of Tribes in India | PVTGs
- What is the classification of Tribal communities?
- What are the main problems of Tribal communities?
- Tribals and Issue of Land Rights [UPSC Notes for GS I]
- What is the Status of Tribal Population in India?
