Context:
Samagra Shiksha Kerala (SSK) programme has developed 30 audio-visual texts in the Cholanaikkan language to support the education of a bedridden girl from the community.
Cholanaikkan tribe:
- Location – Primarily inhabits in Kerala, especially the Western Ghats region
- A diminishing tribe with a population of less than 400 members.
- Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) by the Government of India.
- Lifestyle –
- Traditionally, they are hunter-gatherers and depend on the forest for their livelihood.
- Live in rock shelters called ‘Kallulai’ or in open campsites made of leaves
- Known as the “Cavemen of Kerala” as they prefer natural caves as dwelling spaces.
- Language – Cholanaikkan language, which belongs to the Dravidian family.
- Society – The tribe is divided into smaller groups called ‘Chemmam’
- Economy – Based on food-gathering, hunting, and minor forest produce collection.
Source: TH
Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:
1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.
2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.
3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.
4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
There are only 75 PVTGs officially notified in the country.