Koraga Tribe

Why in news

Koraga tribal community in Kerala set to receive land titles under Operation Smile project.

About Koraga Tribe

• Geographical Location: The Koraga tribe is primarily found in the southern states of Karnataka and Kerala, India.
• Status: Recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), highlighting their socio-economic challenges.
• Language: Most Koragas speak Tulu, but they also have their own distinct language.
• Social Structure: The Koraga tribe is divided into exogamous clans, known as bali, with a total of 17 balis.

Economy

• The Koragas are primarily agriculturists, relying heavily on forest produce such as bamboo, cane, and creepers for crafting baskets.
• Their livelihoods are closely tied to the sustainable use of forest resources.

Cultural Practices

• The tribe is known for their rich cultural heritage, including folk dances, songs, and rituals aimed at invoking blessings for good harvests and preventing epidemics.
• Dholu (drum) and Voote (flute) are traditional musical instruments used in their rituals.

Family Structure

• Matrilineal society: Descent is traced through the female line, though residence after marriage is patrilocal.
• Equal property distribution: Property is shared equally between sons and daughters.

Religious Beliefs

• The Koragas worship various Bhutas (spirits) and engage in rituals such as Bhuta Kola. Major deities include Panjurli, Kallurti, Korathi, and Guliga.

What are PVTGs?

Definition:

• Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) are communities within the tribal groups facing extreme socio-economic challenges.

Origin:

• 1973: The Dhebar Commission introduced the category of Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs), later renamed as PVTGs by the Government of India in 2006.

Criteria for PVTGs:

• Pre-agricultural level of technology.
• Low literacy rates.
• Economic backwardness.
• Declining or stagnant population.

PVTGs in India

• There are 75 PVTGs across 18 states and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• The highest concentration of PVTGs is in Odisha (13) and Andhra Pradesh (12).
• The Saura community of Odisha is the largest PVTG in India.

Operation Smile Project

• The Koraga tribe in Kerala is set to receive land titles under the Operation Smile project, a significant step toward their land rights and socio-economic development.