Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with mainstream knowledge and cultural systems.

Richness & Diversity of Tribal culture

1. Matrilineal society as opposed to traditional patrilineal structure [eg] Khasi tribe pay Bride Price for loss of female labour to family.

2. Celebrate Nature in its Raw form. [eg] Chipko movement in Uttrakhand.

3. Idea of tattooing their body as cultural identity.

4. Following Band system of society prevalent during Neolithic period.

5. Celebration of Festivals through old methods [eg] Janseel Mela or Ambubachi Mela – Barter system

6. Preserving the traditional Art [eg] Warli Art in Maharashtra Sahyadri tribes

7. Multiple Dance forms evolved from tribals.

8. Multiple languages by tribes. [eg] Gond & Bhil tribe have their own languages – sign & symbols & Sounds to communicate.

Challenges faced by Culture of Tribes.

1. Changing from National Park approach or Isolation to Assimilation [eg] Sanskritisation of tribes in Southern states

2. Increased State involvement in forests

• Initially to counter Naxalism [eg] Mobile towers, Internet, PM Sadak Yojana & Aawas & PM-SHRI schools in tribal Areas.

1. Disturbing traditional orders [eg] Homogenisation of languages. UNESCO report over 50 languages threaten with extinction in tribals

2. Ways to Preserve & efforts

3. Traditional - Vocal for local.

4. TRIFED to promote tribal products to global level

5. Documentation for preservation.

6. Leave them alone approach [eg] Sentenelese Island