For a decade, tribes like Didayi and Pengu in the Eastern Ghats have grappled with misclassification under the common head of Poraja, compromising their distinct cultural identities. Despite linguistic, cultural, and geographical differences, they find themselves lumped together. Lack of road connectivity and geographic isolation exacerbate their challenges, hindering access to healthcare and government schemes. Discrimination from tribes like Bagathas and Gadabas persists due to the misclassification. Urgent appeals for reclassification, echoing UN recommendations, aim to preserve their unique cultural heritage, emphasizing the need for “Development with Culture and Identity.” State-level delays in forwarding recommendations impede progress.
Identity Struggle: Eastern Ghats Tribes Fight to Preserve Cultural Uniqueness
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