According to S.L. Doshi, what is the biggest challenge to tribal economic sustainability?

The correct answer is - Land Alienation

Key Points

• Land Alienation
  • According to S.L. Doshi, the biggest challenge to tribal economic sustainability is land alienation.
  • Land alienation refers to the process where tribal communities lose ownership and control over their ancestral lands, often leading to economic displacement.
  • This loss of land disrupts the traditional livelihoods of tribal communities, which are primarily based on agriculture, forest produce, and pastoral activities.
  • When tribal lands are taken over for development projects, mining, or other commercial activities, the affected communities often do not receive adequate compensation or rehabilitation.
  • The displacement and marginalization resulting from land alienation contribute significantly to the socio-economic challenges faced by tribal populations.

Additional Information

• Urbanization
  • While urbanization does impact tribal communities, it is not considered the primary challenge to their economic sustainability according to S.L. Doshi.
  • Urbanization can lead to migration and changes in traditional lifestyles, but it also offers opportunities for better education and employment for some tribal members.
• Caste System
  • The caste system is more relevant to social stratification in non-tribal Indian society. Tribals generally have their own social structures that are distinct from the caste system.
  • While there may be some overlap, the caste system is not the primary issue affecting tribal economic sustainability.
• Religious Conversion
  • Religious conversion can influence the cultural and social aspects of tribal communities but is not seen as the main economic challenge.
  • It may lead to changes in community dynamics but does not directly impact the economic sustainability to the same extent as land alienation.