19 members of the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been officially enrolled in the electoral roll for the first time
- The Jarawa Tribe is an indigenous group classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in India.
- They are one of the oldest tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- The name “Jarawa” means “stranger” or “outsider” in their native tongue.
Key Facts
- Habitat:
- The Jarawas live in the forests of South and Middle Andaman Islands, especially along the western coast.
- Their habitat includes the Jarawa Reserve Forest, which is legally protected to ensure their survival.
- Population:
- Estimated population: Around 400–500 (2023 data).
- They have a small, isolated population, making them vulnerable to extinction.
- Lifestyle:
- Hunter-Gatherers: They depend on hunting, fishing, and foraging for survival.
- Semi-Nomadic: They move within their designated forest territories.
- Tools: Use bows, arrows, and handmade tools for hunting and gathering.
- Language:
- The Jarawas speak their own dialect, which is unrelated to modern Indian languages. It belongs to the Great Andamanese language family.
- Physical Features:
- The Jarawas are of Negrito origin, with distinct features such as dark skin, curly hair, and a short stature.
