Jarawa Tribe: Recent Developments

The Jarawa Tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), has made headlines recently with the inclusion of 19 of its members on the electoral roll for the Special Summary Revision-2025 in India's election process. This marks a historic step, as it is the first time members of this tribe have been part of the electoral process.

Location and Habitat:

• Geographic Distribution: The Jarawa people inhabit the Middle Andaman and South Andaman Islands, part of India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands archipelago.
• Environment: Their traditional lands consist of dense forests, mangroves, and pristine beaches, providing a rich natural environment for their survival.

Lifestyle and Population:

• Lifestyle: The Jarawa are hunter-forager-fishermen, with a warrior culture that fiercely defends their territory.
• Current Population: Their population is estimated to be between 250 to 400 individuals.
• Colonial Impact: The tribe's population significantly declined during British colonial rule and after World War II.

Cultural Aspects:

• Ancestry: They are believed to be descendants of the extinct Jangil tribe and possibly part of the first human migrations out of Africa.
• Clothing: Their clothing is minimal and functional, suited to the tropical climate.
• Modern Interaction: Since 1997, the tribe has had increased interaction with outsiders, including trading, receiving medical aid, and sending children to school.