Jarawa Tribe

About Jarawa Tribe:

• The Jarawas are an indigenous tribe which lives in the Andaman Islands.
• They are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
• They inhabit parts of the Middle Andaman and South Andaman Islands. The region is characterized by dense forests, mangroves, and pristine beaches, providing a rich habitat.
• They are regarded as descendants of the Jangil tribe, which is now extinct.
• Some believe the ancestors of the Jarawas were part of the first successful human migrations out of Africa. 
• The Jarawas have traditionally been hunter-forager-fishermen, and are known as warriors who fiercely defend their territory.
• They are known for their robust physique and excellent nutritional health.
• Traditional clothing among the Jarawa Tribe is minimal and functional, designed to suit the tropical climate of the Andaman Islands.
• After the British established a colonial presence in the Andaman Islands in 1789, the population of Jarawas declined massively.
• However, the Jarawas survived the British colonial presence and World War II.
• Over the years, the contact between the Jarawas and the outsiders increased, and since 1997, they have initiated contacts with settled populations, where they traded and interacted with tourists, got medical aid, and even sent their children to school.
• At present, their number ranges between 250 to 400 individuals. 

Q1: Who are Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)?

PVTGs are a more vulnerable group among tribal groups in India. These groups have primitive traits, geographical isolation, low literacy, zero to negative population growth rate and backwardness. Moreover, they are largely dependent on hunting for food and a pre-agriculture level of technology. Currently, there are 2.8 million PVTGs belonging to 75 tribes across 22,544 villages in 220 districts across 18 states and Union Territories in India.

News: 19 members of Jarawa Tribe included in electoral roll for first time