Jarawa Tribe

Jarawa Tribe Latest News

Concerns regarding the enumeration of isolated indigenous tribes, especially the Jarawa Tribe of Andaman Islands, were addressed by experts who said reaching the Jarawas will not be tough due to existing contact and welfare initiatives.

About the Jarawa Tribe

• The Jarawas are among the world’s oldest surviving indigenous communities.
• They are recognised as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
• Their population is estimated to be between 250 to 400 individuals.
• They inhabit the Middle and South Andaman Islands, living in nomadic bands of 40–50.
• Their habitat includes dense tropical forests, mangroves, and coastal zones.

Origin & History

• The Jarawas are believed to be descendants of the extinct Jangil tribe.
• Some theories link their ancestry to the first wave of human migration out of Africa, making them part of the earliest human settlers in Asia.
• They survived British colonization (since 1789) and World War II, despite a massive decline in population.

Cultural & Lifestyle Characteristics

• The Jarawas are hunter-gatherer-fishermen, relying on forest produce, hunting, and coastal fishing.
• They are known for their robust physical health, attributed to their nutritional lifestyle.
• Traditional Jarawa attire is minimal, suited to the humid tropical climate of the Andaman Islands.
• Known as territorial defenders, the Jarawas historically resisted intrusion into their lands.

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About 16th Census of India

• The Government of India has announced that the 16th Census of India will be conducted in two phases:
  • October 1, 2026 for snow-bound states and A&N Islands.
  • March 1, 2027 for the rest of India.
• This census will also include nationwide caste enumeration, the first since 1931.

Source: TH