Introduction

Jharkhand, known as the “Land of Forests,” is home to 32 recognized Scheduled Tribes (STs), constituting around 26.21% of the state’s population. These indigenous communities have a rich cultural heritage, distinct languages, and diverse traditions. The major tribes of Jharkhand include the Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Ho, Kharia, Bhumij, Kharwar, and Birhor, among others.

List of Major Tribes of Jharkhand

The Scheduled Tribes of Jharkhand can be broadly classified into four categories based on their traditional occupations and lifestyles:

1. Hunter-gatherers – Birhor, Korwa, and Hill Kharia
2. Shifting cultivators – Sauria Paharia, Mal Paharia
3. Artisan groups – Mahli, Lohra, Karmali, Chik Baraik
4. Settled agriculturists – Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Ho, Bhumij, Kharwar

Below is a detailed description of each tribe in Jharkhand.

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1. Santhal Tribe

• Largest tribe in Jharkhand, constituting nearly 31.86% of the total tribal population.
• Traditionally known for their agriculture and hunting practices.
• Language: Santali (a Munda language).
• Religion: Mostly Sarna (nature worshippers) but a significant number have converted to Christianity.
• Festivals: Sohrai (harvest festival), Karam, and Baha Parab.
• Cultural Significance: Known for their unique Santhali dance, music, and folklore.

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2. Munda Tribe

• One of the most politically active tribes, forming 14.22% of the tribal population.
• Historically engaged in agriculture and forest-based activities.
• Language: Mundari.
• Religion: Sarna and Christianity.
• Festivals: Mage Parab, Sarhul, Sohrai, and Phagua.
• Notable Figures: Birsa Munda, the great tribal freedom fighter.

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3. Oraon Tribe

• Second-largest tribe in Jharkhand, making up 19.86% of the state’s tribal population.
• Primarily engaged in farming, forest gathering, and government jobs.
• Language: Kurukh.
• Religion: Predominantly Sarna, followed by Christianity.
• Festivals: Sarhul, Karam, and Jitia Parab.
• Cultural Traits: Known for their martial traditions and strong social organization.

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4. Ho Tribe

• Constitutes 10.74% of the tribal population in Jharkhand.
• Strongly associated with Kolhan region, particularly West Singhbhum district.
• Language: Ho (related to Mundari and Santhali).
• Religion: Sarna, Hinduism, and Christianity.
• Festivals: Mage Parab, Sohrai, and Baa Parob.
• Social System: The Ho people have one of the most organized traditional governance systems called the Munda-Manki system.

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5. Birhor Tribe

• One of the smallest and most endangered tribes in Jharkhand, constituting just 0.12% of the state’s population.
• Traditionally nomadic hunter-gatherers, relying on forest resources.
• Language: Birhor (a branch of Munda languages).
• Religion: Sarna, with strong animistic beliefs.
• Challenges: Struggling due to deforestation and loss of traditional livelihoods.

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6. Kharia Tribe

• Comprises 2.27% of Jharkhand’s tribal population.
• Divided into three sub-groups: Dhelki Kharia, Dudh Kharia, and Hill Kharia.
• Language: Kharia.
• Religion: Sarna, with a few converted to Christianity.
• Occupation: Primarily involved in agriculture, forest collection, and government jobs.
• Festivals: Karam, Sarhul, and Jitiya.

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7. Bhumij Tribe

• Comprising 2.42% of the tribal population, they primarily inhabit Saraikela-Kharsawan and East Singhbhum districts.
• Language: Bhumij (closely related to Mundari and Santali).
• Religion: Sarna and Hinduism.
• Traditional Occupation: Agriculture and forest-based activities.
• Festivals: Baha Parab and Sohrai.

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8. Kharwar Tribe

• Making up 2.88% of the tribal population.
• Historically warriors, later turned to agriculture and forest activities.
• Language: Kharwari (a form of the Munda language family).
• Religion: Sarna and Hinduism.
• Festivals: Sarhul, Karma, and Sohrai.

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9. Mal Paharia Tribe

• One of the oldest tribes, classified under Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
• Traditionally engaged in shifting cultivation and hunting.
• Language: Malto (a Dravidian language).
• Religion: Sarna, with some conversions to Hinduism.
• Challenges: High levels of poverty and illiteracy.

Scheduled Tribes of Jharkhand table with serial numbers, occupation, language, and religious practices:

S.No	Tribe Name	Occupation	Language	Religious Practices
1	Asur	Iron smelters, blacksmiths	Asur, Mundari	Animism, Sarna worship
2	Baiga	Shifting cultivators, forest gatherers	Baiga dialect	Animism, Hindu influences
3	Banjara	Nomadic traders, transporters	Lamani	Hinduism, Tribal traditions
4	Bathudi	Agriculture	Odia, Mundari	Hinduism, Indigenous beliefs
5	Bedia	Agriculture, folk performers	Bedia dialect	Hinduism, Animism
6	Bhumij	Agriculture, Artisans	Bhumij, Santali, Mundari	Sarnaism, Singbonga worship
7	Binjhia	Agriculture, Artisans	Binjhia, Hindi	Animism, Hindu influences
8	Birhor	Nomadic hunting-gathering	Birhor dialect	Nature worship
9	Birjia	Hunting, forest gathering	Nagpuri, Sadri	Animism, Ancestral worship
10	Chero	Farmers, Landowners	Chero, Hindi	Hinduism, Sarna worship
11	Chik Baraik	Weaving, Textile work	Mundari	Hinduism, Tribal faith
12	Gond	Agriculture, Artists	Gondi	Nature worship, Phul Mata
13	Gorait	Agriculture, Animal husbandry	Ho, Sadri	Hinduism, Sarna
14	Ho	Agriculture, Metalwork	Ho, Mundari	Sarna, Hinduism
15	Kanwar	Farming, Animal husbandry	Sadri	Hinduism, Tribal practices
16	Karmali	Iron tool making	Karmali, Hindi	Hinduism, Sarna
17	Kharia	Agricultural laborers, Forest gatherers	Kharia, Mundari	Sarna, Christianity
18	Kharwar	Farmers, Warriors	Kharwari, Hindi	Hinduism, Tribal customs
19	Khond	Agriculture, Forest protection	Khond dialect	Nature worship, Animism
20	Kisan	Agriculture, Livestock farming	Sadri, Kurukh, Nagpuri	Hinduism, Sarna worship
21	Kora	Agriculture, Laborers	Kora, Santali	Hinduism, Animism
22	Kol	Agriculture, Artisans	Kol dialect	Hinduism, Sarna worship
23	Korwa	Shifting agriculture, Hunting	Korwa dialect	Sarna, Animism
24	Lohra	Blacksmiths, Tool makers	Hindi, Sadri	Hinduism, Sarna
25	Mahli	Bamboo handicrafts, Basket weaving	Mahli dialect	Sarna, Hinduism
26	Mal Paharia	Shifting agriculture, Forest dwellers	Mal Paharia dialect	Animism, Hinduism
27	Munda	Agriculture, Rebels	Mundari	Sarna, Christianity
28	Oraon	Farming, Folk artists	Kurukh, Sadri	Sarna, Christianity
29	Parhaiya	Agriculture, Forest-based livelihoods	Parhaiya dialect	Animism, Hinduism
30	Santhal	Agriculture, Warriors	Santali	Sarna, Hinduism
31	Sauria Paharia	Shifting cultivators, Gatherers	Paharia dialect	Animism, Nature worship
32	Savar	Hunting, Gathering	Savar dialect	Nature worship, Animism

Demography of Scheduled Tribes of Jharkhand: Census 2011 Analysis

Jharkhand, one of India’s most tribal-dominated states, is home to 8,645,042 Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals, comprising 26.21% of the state’s total population. The tribal demographic distribution is crucial in understanding Jharkhand’s socio-economic landscape, cultural heritage, and administrative policies.

1. Overview of Scheduled Tribes of Jharkhand

Position of Jharkhand in India’s Tribal Population

Jharkhand ranks 6th among all Indian states and union territories in terms of absolute Scheduled Tribe (ST) population and 10th in percentage share of the tribal population to the total population of the state.

Growth Rate of Tribal Population (1991-2011)

• The growth rate of Tribes of Jharkhand from 1991 to 2001 was 17.3%, which is lower than the overall state population growth rate of 23.3%.
• This decline highlights factors such as urban migration, economic challenges, and developmental policies that have influenced tribal population trends.

Rural vs. Urban Distribution of Tribes

• 91.7% of Tribes of Jharkhand population lives in rural areas, making them one of the most rural-dominated tribal populations in India.
• The low urbanization rate among Jharkhand’s STs is linked to limited employment opportunities, land-based livelihood dependence, and cultural attachment to ancestral lands.

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2. District-Wise Distribution of Tribal Population in Jharkhand

The tribal population in Jharkhand is not evenly distributed across all districts. Some districts have high tribal concentrations, while others have significantly fewer ST populations.

Top Tribal-Dominated Districts in Jharkhand

District	% of Total District Population (STs)	Major Tribes
Gumla	68.94%	Oraon, Munda, Kharia
West Singhbhum	67.31%	Ho, Munda, Santhal
Lohardaga	56.89%	Oraon, Munda
Pakur	42.1%	Santhal, Paharia
Ranchi	35.76%	Oraon, Munda, Kharia

• Gumla has the highest tribal concentration, with nearly 69% of the district’s population belonging to Scheduled Tribes.
• West Singhbhum follows closely, housing a large Ho and Munda tribal population.
• Lohardaga and Pakur also have significant tribal presence, with Oraon and Santhal tribes being dominant.

Districts with Lowest Tribal Population Share

District	% of Total District Population (STs)
Koderma	0.96%
Chatra	4.37%

• Koderma has the lowest tribal population share, with less than 1% of its total population belonging to Scheduled Tribes.
• Chatra also has a low ST population at 4.37%, reflecting its different socio-economic and demographic patterns.

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3. Scheduled Tribes of Jharkhand Population Data (2011 Census)

The following table provides a comprehensive breakdown of Jharkhand’s major Scheduled Tribes, their total population, and their percentage share in the state’s ST population.

Scheduled Tribe	Population	% of Jharkhand’s ST Population	Major Districts
Santhal	2,754,723	31.86%	Dumka, Pakur, Godda, Sahibganj
Oraon (Dhangar)	1,716,618	19.86%	Gumla, Lohardaga, Ranchi
Munda (Patar)	1,229,221	14.22%	Khunti, Ranchi, West Singhbhum
Ho	928,289	10.74%	West Singhbhum, Saraikela-Kharsawan
Kharia	196,135	2.27%	Gumla, Simdega, Lohardaga
Kharwar	248,974	2.88%	Palamu, Latehar
Bhumij	209,448	2.42%	East Singhbhum, Saraikela
Lohra	216,226	2.50%	Simdega, Ranchi
Mal Paharia	135,797	1.57%	Pakur, Sahibganj
Mahli	152,663	1.77%	East Singhbhum, Ranchi
Korwa	35,606	0.41%	Garhwa, Palamu
Birhor	10,726	0.12%	Hazaribagh, Latehar
Asur	22,459	0.26%	Gumla, Lohardaga
Binjhia	14,404	0.17%	Simdega, Latehar

Key Takeaways from the Tribal Population Data

• Santhal is the largest tribal group in Jharkhand, comprising 31.86% of the total ST population.
• Oraon and Munda tribes together make up over 34% of Jharkhand’s tribal population, with strong representation in Gumla, Ranchi, and Lohardaga.
• Ho people dominate West Singhbhum, accounting for nearly 11% of the state’s total ST population.
• Smaller tribes such as Birhor, Asur, and Korwa have less than 1% population share, making them vulnerable to extinction and cultural assimilation.

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4. Comparative Analysis: Tribal Population in Jharkhand vs. Other Indian States

Jharkhand has one of the highest concentrations of Scheduled Tribes in India. However, how does it compare with other tribal-dominated states?

State	Total ST Population (2011 Census)	% of State Population
Madhya Pradesh	15.3 million	21.1%
Maharashtra	10.5 million	9.4%
Odisha	9.6 million	22.8%
Jharkhand	8.6 million	26.2%
Chhattisgarh	7.8 million	30.6%
Rajasthan	9.2 million	13.5%

• Jharkhand ranks fourth in India in terms of absolute ST population but has a higher tribal proportion than Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• Chhattisgarh has the highest ST percentage (30.6%) among these states, followed by Jharkhand.

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5. Future Trends and Challenges for Jharkhand’s Tribal Population

Concerns Regarding Tribal Demographics

• Urban migration is increasing, leading to tribal population decline in rural areas.
• Deforestation and land acquisition threaten tribal livelihoods.
• Limited access to education and healthcare among smaller tribes like Birhor and Asur impacts their survival and growth.

The Need for Preservation and Development

Jharkhand’s rich tribal heritage needs active preservation through government policies, cultural documentation, and socio-economic empowerment.

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The tribal demography of Jharkhand reflects a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and socio-economic factors. While some communities thrive, others face challenges that require urgent policy intervention and conservation efforts.

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Festivals of Tribes in Jharkhand

Jharkhand is a land rich in tribal culture and traditions, where festivals hold immense significance. These celebrations are deeply tied to nature, agricultural cycles, and ancestral traditions. The major tribal festivals, including Sarhul, Baha Parab, Sohrai, Mage Porob, Hal Punhya, and Sendra Festival, reflect the spirituality, unity, and unique worldview of the tribal communities.

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1. Sarhul: The Spring Festival of Jharkhand

Significance of Sarhul

Sarhul is one of the most important tribal festivals celebrated primarily by the Munda, Oraon, and Ho tribes in Jharkhand. It marks the arrival of spring and is a worship of the Sal tree (Shorea robusta), considered sacred in Sarnaism (the tribal animistic faith). The festival is an expression of gratitude to the village deity, who is believed to protect the land, forests, and people.

Rituals of Sarhul

1. The Role of the Pahan (Village Priest)
   • The festival is conducted by the Pahan, the chief priest of the village.
   • He observes two days of fasting before the festival begins.
2. Sacred Water Ritual
   • The Pahan places three earthen pots filled with water in the Sarna Sthal (sacred grove).
   • If the water level remains high the next morning, it is believed that the year will bring prosperity and good rainfall.
   • If the water level decreases, it is interpreted as a sign of drought or famine.
3. Sacrificial Offerings and Worship
   • The Pahan offers three roosters of different colors:
     • One to Singbonga/Dharmesh (the supreme deity).
     • One for the village deities.
     • One for the ancestors.
   • The community then worships the Sal tree, decorating it with flowers.
4. Community Celebrations
   • People dress in traditional attire and gather around the Sarna Sthal.
   • The Pahan is carried on the shoulders of the villagers, symbolizing their respect.
   • The festival ends with the distribution of Handia (a local rice beer) and dancing to the beats of Dhol, Nagara, and Turhi.
   • The celebration continues for several weeks across different villages in Chotanagpur and Kolhan regions.

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2. Baha Parab: The Festival of Flowers

Significance of Baha Parab

Baha Parab is the spring festival of the Ho, Munda, and Santal tribes. The word “Baha” means flower in the Munda language, and the festival is a celebration of nature’s beauty and fertility.

Key Rituals of Baha Parab

1. Worship of Marang Buru
   • The main deity Marang Buru (Great Mountain God) is worshiped in Jaherthan (sacred grove).
   • The village priest performs rituals under a Sal tree, offering Mahua and rice beer.
2. Use of Flowers in Rituals
   • Flowers are considered sacred, and only men can touch them initially.
   • The priest distributes these flowers to women and children only after the worship.
3. Community Celebrations
   • After the rituals, the entire community participates in dancing and singing.
   • Handia (rice beer) and local delicacies are prepared.

Baha Parab is considered a purification festival, ensuring prosperity and well-being for the village.

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3. Sohrai: The Festival of Harvest and Cattle Worship

Significance of Sohrai

Sohrai is the most important agricultural festival of the Santhal, Munda, Ho, and Oraon tribes. Celebrated after the autumn harvest, it is dedicated to cattle and agricultural prosperity.

Duration and Celebration

The festival is celebrated for five days, each having specific rituals:

1. Day 1: Um Maha
   • Houses are cleaned and decorated with beautiful Sohrai paintings made with rice paste and natural dyes.
2. Day 2: Dakay Maha/Bonga Maha
   • People worship Marang Buru in Jaherthan (sacred grove).
   • Domestic animals are bathed, decorated with oil and vermillion, and given special food.
3. Day 3: Khuntaw Maha
   • The main community feast takes place.
   • Elders bless the younger generations with rice and Mahua liquor.
4. Day 4: Jale Maha
   • Folk dances and group music performances take place across villages.
5. Day 5: Sendra Maha
   • A day dedicated to hunting in the forests (traditionally observed by warriors).

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4. Mage Porob: The Festival of Singbonga

Significance of Mage Porob

Mage Porob is the principal festival of the Ho tribe, celebrated in January-February. It is dedicated to Singbonga, the creator deity.

Key Rituals

• The priest sacrifices a white rooster to Singbonga.
• The villagers engage in communal feasting, hunting, and dancing.
• Songs narrating creation myths and heroic stories are sung throughout the night.

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5. Hal Punhya: The Beginning of Agricultural Year

Significance of Hal Punhya

Hal Punhya marks the start of the plowing season for farmers. Celebrated on the first day of Magha month, it is a festival of prosperity and good fortune.

Celebration Highlights

• Farmers plow their fields in a circular motion to mark the beginning of the agricultural year.
• It is believed that the first plow brings luck and ensures a good harvest.

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6. Sendra Festival: The Hunting Festival of Jharkhand

Significance of Sendra (Disum Sendra)

Sendra is an annual hunting festival, celebrated in Dalma Hills and Saranda forests. It is particularly important to the Santhal, Munda, Ho, Bhumij, Birhor, and Kharia tribes.

Traditional Hunting Practices

• Tribal men gather in large groups with traditional weapons like bows, arrows, and spears.
• The hunting expedition is led by senior tribal leaders.
• Earlier, it was considered a test of bravery and warrior skills.

Modern Controversy

• Due to wildlife conservation laws, the government has discouraged hunting.
• Today, many tribes symbolically celebrate the festival with mock hunting events and traditional games.

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Tribal festivals in Jharkhand are not just celebrations but a way of life. They symbolize agricultural cycles, community bonding, respect for nature, and ancestral worship.

Despite modernization, these festivals continue to be the cornerstone of tribal identity. The need to preserve, document, and celebrate these traditions is crucial for cultural sustainability and historical recognition.

Religion, Language, and Literacy among the Tribes of Jharkhand

Jharkhand, a state known for its rich tribal heritage, has a diverse religious, linguistic, and educational landscape among its Scheduled Tribes (STs). The 2011 Census provides detailed insights into the religious affiliations, languages spoken, and literacy rates of Jharkhand’s tribal communities.

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1. Religious Composition of Scheduled Tribes in Jharkhand

Religion plays a significant role in shaping the cultural identity, customs, and traditions of Jharkhand’s tribal population, with Sarna, Hinduism, and Christianity being the dominant faiths.

Religious Breakdown of Jharkhand’s ST Population (2011 Census)

Religion	ST Population	% of Total STs
Sarna	3,910,313	45.23%
Hinduism	3,245,856	37.55%
Christianity	1,338,175	15.48%
Adi Bassi	41,680	0.48%
Bidin	28,954	0.33%
Other Religions	54,887	0.63%
Religion Not Stated	25,971	0.30%

Key Observations on Tribal Religion in Jharkhand

1. Sarnaism (45.23%) is the most followed religion among Jharkhand’s tribes. Sarna followers worship nature, including trees, rivers, the sun, and ancestral spirits.
2. Hinduism (37.55%) is also widely practiced among the tribal population, with many communities assimilating Hindu traditions over time.
3. Christianity (15.48%) has a significant presence, especially among the Munda, Oraon, and Kharia tribes, largely due to the influence of missionary activities since the colonial period.
4. Other Indigenous Faiths such as Adi Bassi, Bidin, and local tribal beliefs make up a small but notable portion of the religious landscape.

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Sarna Religion: The Indigenous Faith of Jharkhand’s Tribes

Sarna, also known as Sarnaism or Sarna Dharam, is a nature-worshipping religion followed primarily by the Santhal, Munda, Ho, and Oraon tribes.

Key Features of Sarnaism

• Worship of Natural Elements – The followers of Sarna worship the sun, moon, rivers, mountains, and sacred groves known as Sarna Sthal.
• Community-Based Rituals – Religious ceremonies are performed collectively at sacred sites, often under a Sal (Shorea robusta) tree.
• Festivals – Important Sarna festivals include Sarhul, Karma, Sohrai, and Mage Porob, celebrating harvest cycles, community bonding, and ancestral reverence.

Religious Practices of Major Tribes

• Santhal – Primarily Sarna followers, but some have converted to Christianity.
• Munda & Ho – Strongly rooted in Sarnaism, though some practice Hinduism and Christianity.
• Oraon – Divided between Sarna (majority), Hinduism, and Christianity.
• Paharia & Birhor – Predominantly nature-worshippers, following Sarna or animist beliefs.

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2. Language Distribution Among Jharkhand’s Tribes

Language is a key aspect of tribal identity, preserving the history, folklore, and traditions of Jharkhand’s indigenous communities. Jharkhand has a linguistically diverse tribal population, with Santali, Ho, Kurukh, and Mundari being the dominant tribal languages.

Most Spoken Languages Among STs in Jharkhand (2011 Census)

Language	Speakers	% of ST Population
Santali	2,854,878	33.02%
Sadan/Sadri	1,214,189	14.04%
Ho	960,389	11.11%
Kurukh (Oraon)	935,458	10.82%
Mundari	904,491	10.46%
Hindi	570,444	6.6%
Khortha	285,303	3.2%
Bengali	253,434	2.93%
Pahariya	145,588	1.68%
Kharia	137,413	1.59%
Magahi	98,186	1.14%

Key Observations on Tribal Languages

1. Santali (33.02%) is the most widely spoken tribal language, primarily among the Santhal tribe.
2. Ho (11.11%) is spoken by the Ho tribe, mainly in West Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan districts.
3. Kurukh (10.82%) is spoken by Oraon tribals, largely in Gumla, Lohardaga, and Ranchi.
4. Mundari (10.46%) is spoken by the Munda tribe, concentrated in Khunti and Ranchi.
5. Sadri (14.04%) serves as a lingua franca among various tribal groups, facilitating communication between different linguistic communities.

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3. Literacy Rate Among Jharkhand’s Scheduled Tribes

Education is a crucial factor in tribal development, but literacy rates among Jharkhand’s STs remain below the national average.

Literacy Rate Among Jharkhand’s ST Population (2011 Census)

Education Level	% of Literate ST Population
Literate (Overall)	47.44%
Primary Education	28.94%
Below Primary Level	27.67%
Middle School	17.35%
Matric/Secondary Education	10.61%
Higher Secondary/Intermediate	6.27%
Graduation or Above	3.52%
Technical Diploma Holders	0.22%

Key Observations on Tribal Literacy

1. Only 47.44% of Jharkhand’s tribal population is literate, which is significantly lower than the national tribal literacy rate (59%).
2. Middle and Secondary Education Dropout Rates – A high dropout rate is observed after the primary education level.
3. Higher Education Challenge – Only 3.52% of tribal individuals attain graduate or higher education, highlighting the need for improved access to colleges and universities.

Tribal Groups with Highest Literacy Rates

• Oraon – Over 55% literacy, benefiting from missionary schools and educational programs.
• Munda & Kharia – Above 50% literacy rate, due to better school access in Ranchi and Gumla.

Tribal Groups with Lowest Literacy Rates

• Birhor, Asur, and Paharia – Less than 20% literacy rate, suffering from geographic isolation and lack of infrastructure.

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Economy of the Tribes of Jharkhand

• Agriculture: Major tribes like Santhal, Oraon, Ho, and Munda are engaged in farming.
• Forest-based Livelihoods: Collection of tendu leaves, mahua, and lac is common.
• Artisan Work: Mahli (basket weaving), Lohra (blacksmiths), and Karmali (iron-smelting) are traditional artisan tribes.

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Challenges Faced by the Tribes of Jharkhand

1. Land Alienation – Tribal lands are often grabbed for industrial projects.
2. Loss of Traditional Livelihoods – Due to deforestation and urbanization.
3. Educational Backwardness – Literacy rate among STs is 47.44%, much lower than the national average.
4. Health Issues – High infant mortality and malnutrition.
5. Political Marginalization – Limited representation in policy-making.

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Conclusion

Jharkhand’s tribal communities are an integral part of the state’s history, culture, and identity. Despite modernization, they continue to preserve their rich traditions, languages, and religious beliefs. However, economic marginalization, loss of land, and low literacy rates remain challenges. Sustainable development policies focusing on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment are necessary for their upliftment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Tribes of Jharkhand

1. How many tribes are there in Jharkhand?

Jharkhand officially recognizes 32 Scheduled Tribes (STs). These include major tribes like the Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Ho, Kharia, and Birhor, along with several Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) such as the Asur, Birhor, and Sauria Paharia.

2. Which is the largest tribe in Jharkhand?

The Santhal tribe is the largest tribal community in Jharkhand, making up about 31.86% of the total Scheduled Tribe population in the state.

3. What is the traditional occupation of Jharkhand’s tribal communities?

The majority of Jharkhand’s tribal population is engaged in agriculture, forest-based livelihoods, and handicrafts. Some tribes like the Asur and Lohra are traditionally blacksmiths and ironworkers, while others like the Mahli are expert bamboo artisans.

4. What language do the tribes of Jharkhand speak?

Jharkhand’s tribal communities speak a variety of Austroasiatic and Dravidian languages. Major tribal languages include:

• Santali (33.02%)
• Ho (11.11%)
• Kurukh/Oraon (10.82%)
• Mundari (10.46%)
• Kharia (1.59%)
• Pahariya (1.68%)

Some tribes also speak Sadri, Nagpuri, and Hindi.

5. What is Sarna religion?

The Sarna religion, also called Sarnaism, is the indigenous faith followed by many tribes in Jharkhand. It is centered around nature worship, particularly revering Sal trees, forests, mountains, and ancestral spirits.

6. Which are the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Jharkhand?

Jharkhand has nine PVTGs:

• Asur
• Birhor
• Birjia
• Hill Kharia
• Korwa
• Mal Paharia
• Parhaiya
• Sauria Paharia
• Savars

These tribes face extreme socio-economic backwardness and high risk of extinction.

7. What are some major festivals celebrated by the tribes of Jharkhand?

Some of the most important tribal festivals in Jharkhand include:

• Sarhul – Worship of the Sal tree and nature
• Sohrai – Cattle festival celebrated after Diwali
• Mage Porob – Annual festival of the Ho and Munda tribes
• Sendra – Traditional hunting festival
• Hal Punhya – Festival marking the start of plowing season

8. What is the traditional attire of Jharkhand’s tribes?

Tribal men in Jharkhand generally wear Dhoti and Gamcha, while women wear Sarees with traditional tribal jewelry. Santhals and Mundas are known for their colorful costumes, bead necklaces, and tattoos (Godna).

9. What are the main economic activities of the tribes of Jharkhand?

Jharkhand’s tribal economy is based on:

• Agriculture – Rice, maize, millet cultivation
• Forest Produce – Collection of tendu leaves, sal seeds, and honey
• Hunting and Gathering – Traditional practice among Birhor and Sauria Paharia
• Handicrafts – Bamboo work (Mahli), blacksmithing (Lohra, Asur), textile weaving (Chik Baraik)

10. How are the tribes of Jharkhand classified based on their occupations?

Anthropologists classify Jharkhand’s tribes into four broad categories:

• Hunter-gatherers – Birhor, Korwa, Hill Kharia
• Shifting agriculturalists – Sauria Paharia, Mal Paharia
• Simple artisans – Mahli (bamboo workers), Lohra (blacksmiths), Karmali (iron tool makers)
• Settled agriculturists – Santhal, Ho, Munda, Oraon

11. What is the literacy rate among Jharkhand’s tribal population?

According to the 2011 Census, the literacy rate among Jharkhand’s Scheduled Tribes is 47.44%, which is lower than the state’s average. The Oraon, Munda, and Kharia tribes have relatively higher literacy rates.

12. How do Jharkhand’s tribes preserve their cultural heritage?

Jharkhand’s tribes preserve their rich heritage through festivals, folklore, traditional dances, and tribal arts like:

• Paitkar painting – A form of scroll painting
• Sohrai and Khovar paintings – Tribal wall paintings
• Godna (tattooing) – A traditional body art among women

13. What are the major social issues faced by Jharkhand’s tribal communities?

The major challenges include:

• Land alienation and displacement due to industrial projects
• Deforestation and loss of traditional livelihoods
• Lack of education and healthcare facilities
• High levels of poverty and malnutrition
• Migration of tribal youth for work

14. What is the role of tribal women in Jharkhand’s society?

Tribal women play a crucial role in agriculture, handicrafts, and forest produce collection. They also actively participate in community decision-making, festivals, and resistance movements.

15. What government schemes support the tribal population in Jharkhand?

Some important schemes for tribal welfare include:

• Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana – Focuses on tribal welfare and education
• TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) – Supports handicrafts and minor forest produce trade
• Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) – Provides free education to tribal students
• Jharkhand State Tribal Development Society (JSTDS) – Works for tribal empowerment

16. What are the traditional housing styles of Jharkhand’s tribes?

Most tribes live in mud houses with thatched roofs, called “Kumbha” (Birhor huts), “Chala” (Santhal houses), and “Patas” (Oraon houses).

17. How does deforestation affect the tribal communities of Jharkhand?

Deforestation leads to loss of livelihood, reduction in medicinal plants, depletion of forest produce, and forced displacement of tribes like the Birhor and Asur, who are traditionally forest dwellers.

18. What are the tribal uprisings that took place in Jharkhand?

Some notable tribal revolts include:

• Santhal Rebellion (1855-56) – Against British rule and moneylenders
• Munda Rebellion (1899-1900) – Led by Birsa Munda against British oppression
• Tana Bhagat Movement (1914-1919) – Non-violent protest by the Oraon tribe against colonial policies

19. Which districts in Jharkhand have the highest tribal population?

The top tribal-dominated districts in Jharkhand are:

• Gumla (68.94%)
• Pashchimi Singhbhum (67.31%)
• Lohardaga (56.89%)
• Pakur (42.1%)

20. How can Jharkhand’s tribal culture be preserved?

To preserve tribal culture, the government and civil society must:

• Promote tribal languages and folklore
• Encourage community-based tourism
• Provide economic support for traditional artisans
• Implement strict laws against displacement and deforestation
• Strengthen education and healthcare facilities in tribal areas

The Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) is the state agency responsible for conducting civil services examinations and interviews for appointments to various government posts in Jharkhand.

JPSC Contact Information:

• Address: Jharkhand Public Service Commission, Circular Road, Deputy Para, Ahirtoli, Ranchi, Jharkhand – 834001
• Phone Numbers: (0651) 2211196, 2211197, 2211198, 2211199
• Fax: (0651) 2213699
• Email: For general inquiries, you can contact the Deputy Secretary at dysecretary@jpsc.gov.in.