Tribes and Social Change

Manjusha K. A, SGTDS

Abstract: From Time immemorial tribal communities constitute an important segment of Indian Society. India is also characterized by having second largest tribal population in the world. According to 2011 census, tribals constitute 8.2% of the total population of the country. These groups also belong to various ethnic categories on the basis of geographical, race al, linguistic and economic conditions. The tribals have been the victims of colonial domination, illiteracy, ignorance, caste prejudice, poverty and isolation. Then contact with the advanced and civilized people brought them into a new market economy and exploitation —both social and economic in nature. Their self-sufficient economy disorganized due to land alienation, deforestation, etc. This monograph is an attempt to trace out the socioeconomic change among the Ulladan tribe of Kerala with special reference to the Ulladans of Attathodu Tribal Settlement in Pathanamthitta District. This study is the result of an extensive ethnographic fieldwork conducted among the Ulladans of’ Attathodu and the researcher used multiple methods like Oral History and Local History along with interviews and Focus Group Discussions. The study came out with interesting findings and suggestions and recommendations are also included followed by the Conclusion.

For a copy of this monograph, please email sasi.manjusha3@gmail.com