Why in the News?
The Tribal Council of Great and Little Nicobar has raised concerns that the Great Nicobar Island (GNI) Project could lead to assimilation and disturbance of the Shompen, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
What is the GNI Project?
- Large infrastructure and township project in Great Nicobar.
- Estimated cost: around ₹91,000 crore.
- Includes a proposed power plant at Galathea, near Shompen settlements.
Who are the Shompen?
- Hunter-gatherer indigenous community.
- Fewer than 300 members.
- Recognised as a PVTG.
- Their isolation makes contact, displacement and forced assimilation particularly sensitive.
What are PVTGs?
- PVTG = Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group: Identified based on characteristics such as:
- Pre-agricultural technology
- Low literacy
- Stagnant or declining population
- Economic backwardness
- India recognises 75 PVTGs.
Key Concerns
- Assimilation: Proposal to shift the Shompen towards a modern lifestyle.
- Displacement: Concern over possible settlement and relocation.
- Consent: Questions regarding consultation over wildlife reserves and project decisions.
- Health risks: Contact with isolated communities can expose them to diseases and other risks.
- Assurance gap: Earlier assurance stated that the project would not disturb or displace the Shompen.
Laws Protecting Tribal Rights
- Forest Rights Act, 2006: Recognises individual and community forest rights.
- PESA, 1996: Provides self-governance and consent provisions in Scheduled Areas.
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956: Restricts entry into tribal reserves.
Government Initiatives
- PM-JANMAN: Development of PVTG households and habitations.
- Development of PVTGs Scheme: Habitat-specific support for 75 PVTGs.
“[2009] In which one of the following places is the Shompen tribe found?
(a) Nilgiri Hills
(b) Nicobar Islands
(c) Spiti Valley
(d) Lakshwadeep Islands