28 April 2025 : Daily Answer Writing
Q1) Give a comparative analysis of the tribal and mainstream societies. Is tribal society more progressive than mainstream society? Argue with examples. (15 marks, 250 words)
ANSWER
India, home to the world’s second-largest tribal population, showcases vibrant tribal societies distinct from mainstream society in culture, economy, and social structures.
Comparison of Tribal with Mainstream Society
- Cultural Practices: Tribals have unique languages, art forms (e.g., Warli painting) unlike standardized mainstream practices.
- Economic Practices: Tribals depend on nature (e.g., Bonda tribe practicing shifting cultivation), while mainstream economy is industrial-agricultural.
- Social Organization: Tribal governance is kinship-based (e.g., Kondh tribe’s ‘Gudi’ councils), while mainstream society follows centralized political systems.
- Relationship to Land: Tribals like Bhils view land spiritually, whereas mainstream society often treats it as an economic resource.
- Cultural Beliefs: Tribals practice animism (e.g., Sing Bonga worship among Chotanagpur tribes) versus organized religions in mainstream.
- Health Status: Tribals rely on traditional medicine; mainstream uses modern healthcare systems.
Progressive Aspects of Tribal Society
- Egalitarianism: Tribal societies show less social hierarchy.
- Environmental Conservation: Sustainable living, e.g., Chenchus conserving forests.
- Economic Sustainability: Communal land ownership prevents resource exploitation.
- Traditional Knowledge: Expertise in medicinal plants (e.g., Siddi tribe).
- Gender Equality: Matrilineal practices among Khasi women.
- Conflict Resolution: Effective traditional justice through village councils.
Regressive Aspects Compared to Mainstream Society
- Male Dominance: Gender exclusion in decision-making, e.g., among Naga tribes.
- Education Gaps: Lower female literacy rates.
- Reliance on Traditional Medicine: Delays access to modern healthcare; higher child malnutrition.
- Sanitation Issues: Poor hygiene infrastructure.
- Economic Backwardness: Reliance on subsistence farming like Jhum cultivation.
- Opposition to Development: Resistance to modernization initiatives.
Tribal societies excel in sustainability, equity, and ecological knowledge but lag in health, education, and economic advancement. A synthesis of tribal strengths with mainstream progressiveness is vital for inclusive development.
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