India is home to a rich tapestry of tribal diversity, with a multitude of distinct cultures and communities inhabiting its vast landscape. These tribes have different level of contact and exchanges with mainstream society. Some tribes like Meena, Munda etc. have assimilated well in society whereas Sentinelese, Onge, Jarawa etc. have stayed in isolation . Due to such diversity since British rule various perspectives have emerged regarding the development and welfare of tribal societies, with debates cantering around three primary viewpoints such as isolation, assimilation, and integration.

Assimilation

• This school led by G.S. Ghurye, posits that tribal communities are an integral part of Indian society, albeit left behind in the development process due to incomplete integration. British colonial policies, such as the creation of scheduled and partially excluded districts, contributed to their isolation.
• Ghurye draws from historical and textual examples of interactions between tribal and mainstream societies, emphasizing the need to promote such interaction and integration. He argues that the synthesis of materialistic tribal culture and spiritual Aryan culture has played a pivotal role in shaping Indian society.
• The lack of integration, Ghurye contends, has fuelled insurgency, particularly in the North East, making tribal integration essential for national unity.

Isolation

• In contrast, the isolationist school argues for preserving tribal cultures in specific tribal protected areas. Scholars like Verrier Elwin suggested the establishment of National Parks for tribes, emphasizing the distinctiveness of tribal cultures.
• They fear that complete integration would lead to cultural homogenization and the loss of tribal identities and traditional ways of life.

Integration

A middle path known as the “Panchsheel Policy“ emerged after independence, emphasizing a balance between autonomy and integration. This policy advocates:

• Avoiding the imposition of the majority cultureand promoting tribal arts and culture.
• Limiting excessive administrativeinterference in tribal areas.
• Respecting tribal rights over land and forest produce.
• Training tribal leaders for administrative and developmental roles with external support.
• Measuring progress in terms of the quality of human character developed, not just monetary spending.
• Post-independence government policies for tribal development reflect this integrationist approach, promoting a balanced blend of isolationist and assimilationist methods.

Government Policies

• Government policies have been oriented towards both autonomy and integration.
• Policies oriented towards autonomy include the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), the Forest Rights Act, and constitutional provisions like Schedule V and Schedule VI. They aim to protect tribal autonomy, non-interference in civil and religious affairs, and the recognition of tribal rights over land and forests.
• Policies oriented towards integration include initiatives like scheduled blocks (in the First Five-Year Plan), special grants for education and health, the Tribal Sub-Plan, the Aspirational Development Plan, and organizations like the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED)to market and process forest produce.

India’s diverse tribal communities exhibit varying levels of integration with mainstream society. Achievements include balanced policies, legal safeguards, and targeted programs. Challenges persist, with tribes facing poverty and disparities. A comprehensive approach is needed, preserving culture while enabling integration, access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Establishing a new social contract is crucial for tribal development.