Workshops

Date : April 14-15, 1989

Subject : Nehru and Tribals of India with particular reference to Amity and National Solidarity

Collaboration with : Temple of UnderstandingOrrisa Adiwasi Cultural Association Sambalpur

Location : Bhimaboi Pathagar Mandap, Orrisa

Welcome Address

Prof. Y.K. Bhushan, Director N.M.I.M.S

Mr. Giridhar Gamang, Minister of State for Communication

Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru was very sensitive to the culture and way of life of Tribals. He wanted the culture to flourish in its pristine glory.
Special Laws were enacted so that these innocent people are not exploited.
Their day-to-day existence is dependent on the forest produce and the land. They have emotional attachment with the land, thereby strengthening National Solidarity.
The Laws enacted to safeguard their interests, forced them in their Cocoon and denied the fruits of development in reaching them. It was an isolationist existence. As the development progressed the areas available to the Tribes got restricted and many Tribes fought with each other for supremacy. Many other marginal groups wanted the label of ST so as to derive the benefits of reservations etc., there by creating tensions in the society.
The interaction with the outside people was not very happy, as it resulted in a number of adverse impacts like unwed mothers, bootlegging and land grab. This in turn alienated the tribals from the mainstream.
A lot of work is still required to be done to educate the Tribals and make them a part of mainstream.