ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Addressing the Questions of Tribal Community and the Contribution of Indian Knowledge System in Preserving Tribal Identity

India is home to more than 700 tribal communities, whose cultures, languages, and lifestyles are deeply rooted in ancient traditions. However, globalization, rapid development, and socio-political changes have posed significant challenges to their identity and autonomy. This research paper explores the questions surrounding the tribal community in India, particularly focusing on issues of marginalization, cultural erosion, and displacement. It further investigates how the Indian Knowledge System (IKS), encompassing traditional knowledge, indigenous technologies, oral traditions, and ecological wisdom, plays a critical role in preserving and promoting tribal identity. By integrating tribal epistemologies with modern development paradigms, the IKS framework can serve as a bridge to inclusive, respectful, and sustainable development. Keywords Tribal identity, Indian Knowledge System, indigenous knowledge, cultural preservation, marginalization, sustainable development