Tribal communities in India are diverse and heterogeneous groups of people who have their own distinct cultures, languages, religions, and ways of life. They are also dispersed across the country but are divided into groups depending on their geographical location. The largest tribal community in India is Madhya Pradesh. The tribal communities can be classified into four location-based categories:
- The northern and northeastern region
- Central India
- Southwestern region
- Southern region
Tribal communities in India can be considered as a single category only in specific contexts where they share some common characteristics or face similar challenges. For example, some possible contexts are:
When they are recognized as Scheduled Tribes under the Indian Constitution and given special rights and protections.
When they are affected by development projects that threaten their land, resources, culture, and identity.
When they are involved in social movements or resistance struggles against exploitation, oppression, or discrimination by the state or other groups.
When they are engaged in cultural exchange or collaboration with other tribal or non-tribal communities for mutual benefit or learning.
These are some of the contexts where tribal communities in India can be seen as a single category, but they do not erase their diversity and heterogeneity. Tribal communities in India are not a monolithic or homogeneous group, but a complex and dynamic mosaic of different peoples with their own histories, aspirations, and challenges.