The culture and practices of the tribes of India form a rich part of our history. Whether it is in the realm of arts, music, dance, handicrafts, or innovation, their way of life is one which is unique. However, it is true that they remain off the radar of mainstream India on most days.
But that has not stopped them from making a mark in mainstream India with their contributions to the economy, sports and much more! So, here are five areas where tribal India broke through that barrier!
1. The cultivation and export of natural products.
Many tribes were originally hunter-gatherer societies. As such, their knowledge of ancient herbs, plants and other natural products is tantamount to that of an expert.
These skills that were once a part of their tradition have now become a means for not only their livelihood but an active contribution to furthering India’s economic growth.
Members of Kattunayakan, an ancient tribe in Kerala, have been collecting and selling wild honey for years. Tribals in the Koraput region of Orissa have also adopted beekeeping to earn a livelihood. They cultivate natural honey, and this is widely sought after in both the domestic and global market. According to a report by Agriculture Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) 38, 177.08 metric tonnes of honey, worth 705.87 crores was exported in 2015-2016.
Tribes that live near forest-fringed villages usually tend to cultivate organic food grains, and gather bamboo, ivory, timber, and fruits, which they sometimes make into natural products, for example, soaps!
