Tribes in India MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Tribes in India - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Santhal.

Key Points

• The Santhal tribe is the largest tribal community in Jharkhand, constituting around 34% of the total tribal population in the state.
• Santhals are primarily concentrated in the districts of Dumka, Pakur, and Sahebganj in Jharkhand.
• The tribe has a rich cultural heritage, including the Santhali language, which is part of the Austroasiatic language family and has its own script called Ol Chiki.
• The Santhals are traditionally agriculturalists and have also been known for their involvement in forestry and hunting.
• The Santhal Rebellion (1855-1856) against the British colonial rule is a significant historical event in India’s tribal history.

Additional Information

• Tribal Population in Jharkhand:
  • Jharkhand has a significant tribal population, comprising 26.2% of the state’s total population as per the 2011 Census.
  • Other major tribes in Jharkhand include Oraon, Munda, and Ho.
• Santhal Rebellion:
  • The Santhal Rebellion, also known as the Santal Hul, was a revolt led by the Santhals against the oppressive policies of the British East India Company and Zamindari system.
  • It started in 1855 under the leadership of Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu.
• Ol Chiki Script:
  • Ol Chiki is the official script for writing the Santhali language, developed by Pandit Raghunath Murmu in 1925.
  • The script is unique and has gained recognition in India for preserving the cultural identity of the Santhal community.
• Cultural Practices:
  • Santhals are known for their vibrant cultural practices, including traditional dances like Santhal dance, performed during festivals like Sohrai and Karam.
  • Their music, played with traditional instruments such as the tumdak and banam, forms an integral part of their cultural identity.

The correct answer is Galos.

Key Points

• The Galo tribe is one of the prominent tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, primarily residing in the West Siang, Lower Siang, and parts of East Siang districts.
• They belong to the Mongoloid race and speak the Galo language, which is a dialect of the Sino-Tibetan language family.
• Galos are known for practicing shifting cultivation, particularly Jhum farming, and their cultural traditions revolve around nature and agriculture.
• The tribe follows its indigenous religion called Donyi-Polo, worshipping the Sun and Moon as deities.
• They celebrate important festivals such as Mopin, which is marked by rituals for prosperity and happiness.

Additional Information

• Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh:
  • Arunachal Pradesh is home to multiple indigenous tribes including Galos, Nyishis, Apatanis, Adis, and Monpas.
  • Most of these tribes have distinct languages, traditions, and cultural practices.
• Jhum Cultivation:
  • Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional agricultural practice in which a patch of land is cleared, cultivated, and abandoned for regeneration.
  • It is common among many tribes in northeastern India.
• Donyi-Polo Faith:
  • Donyi-Polo is the indigenous religion of many Arunachal tribes, emphasizing the worship of the Sun (Donyi) and Moon (Polo).
  • The faith promotes harmony with nature and ancestral rituals.
• Mopin Festival:
  • Mopin is the major festival celebrated by the Galo tribe to invoke blessings for a good harvest, health, and prosperity.
  • It involves rituals, folk dances, and communal feasting.

The correct answer is Onge.

Key Points

• The Onge tribe is one of the indigenous tribes primarily found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• The Onge are classified as a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) by the Government of India.
• They are believed to have migrated to the islands thousands of years ago and have traditionally lived as hunter-gatherers.
• The Onge population is critically low, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining, posing a major concern for their survival and conservation.
• The tribe primarily resides in the southern part of Little Andaman Island.

Additional Information

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
  • Located in the Bay of Bengal, these islands are known for their rich biodiversity and indigenous tribes.
  • Major tribes include the Onge, Jarawa, Great Andamanese, and Sentinelese.
• Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs):
  • PVTGs are communities recognized for their pre-agricultural level of technology, stagnant or declining population, and extremely low literacy levels.
  • India has identified 75 PVTGs, including the Onge tribe.
• Hunter-Gatherer Lifestyle:
  • The Onge traditionally rely on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance.
  • Modern influences and restricted access to resources have impacted their traditional way of life.
• Conservation Efforts:
  • Various government and non-governmental initiatives aim to preserve the culture and livelihood of PVTGs like the Onge.
  • Focus areas include health care, education, and legal protection of their land and resources.

The correct answer is Agariya.

Key Points

• The Gond tribe is one of the largest tribal groups in India, primarily residing in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Agariya is a significant sub-caste of the Gond tribe, known for their historical involvement in iron smelting and agricultural practices.
• The Gond tribe is classified as a Scheduled Tribe in India, granting them access to various social and economic benefits under the Constitution of India.
• Other notable sub-castes of the Gond tribe include Khatola, Ojha, and Dhurwe, among others, each with unique cultural and occupational traits.
• The Gond people have a rich cultural heritage, including folk art, music, and religious practices, which vary across their sub-castes.

Additional Information

• Scheduled Tribes in India:
  • Scheduled Tribes are indigenous communities recognized under the Constitution of India for their distinct cultural identities and socio-economic challenges.
  • They are provided special benefits and reservations in education, employment, and political representation to uplift their status.
  • India has over 700 Scheduled Tribes, which account for approximately 8.6% of the country's population as per the Census 2011.
• Gond Art:
  • Gond art is a traditional form of painting originating from the Gond tribe, characterized by intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
  • The art often depicts folklore, nature, and daily life, reflecting the tribe's cultural beliefs and connection with nature.
• Iron Smelting by Agariya Sub-Caste:
  • The Agariya sub-caste historically specialized in iron smelting, utilizing traditional techniques passed down through generations.
  • Modern advancements have reduced reliance on traditional iron smelting, pushing the Agariya community towards other occupations like agriculture.
• Other Sub-Castes of Gond Tribe:
  • In addition to Agariya, sub-castes such as Pradhan, Khatola, Dhurwe, and Ojha are prominent among the Gond tribe.
  • Each sub-caste has distinct cultural practices, including specific festivals, rituals, and occupational roles.

The correct answer is Chhindwara district.

Key Points

• The Bharia tribe predominantly resides in the Patalkot valley of Chhindwara district in Madhya Pradesh.
• The Bharia tribe is known for their distinct cultural practices and traditional knowledge.
• Patalkot valley, where the Bharia tribe lives, is renowned for its lush green landscapes and unique ecosystem.
• The Bharia people speak a dialect of the Dravidian language family, which is distinct from other regional languages.

Additional Information

• Tribal Population in India
  • India is home to a significant tribal population, with more than 700 distinct tribes recognized.
  • Tribal communities are primarily found in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and northeastern states.
  • Tribes in India have a rich cultural heritage, including unique languages, traditions, and art forms.
  • The government has various schemes aimed at the welfare and development of tribal communities.
• Patalkot Valley
  • Patalkot is a valley in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.
  • The valley is located at an average height of 2750–3250 feet above sea level.
  • Patalkot has been a significant area for the study of traditional herbal medicine practiced by the Bharia tribe.
  • The valley is relatively isolated, preserving the unique culture and lifestyle of its inhabitants.
• Dravidian Language Family
  • The Dravidian language family includes languages like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
  • These languages are primarily spoken in southern India and some parts of central India.
  • Dravidian languages have their own script and have contributed significantly to Indian literature and culture.
  • The Bharia tribe's dialect is part of this language family, showcasing the linguistic diversity within the tribal communities.

The correct answer is Galos.

Key Points

• The Galo tribe is one of the prominent tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, primarily residing in the West Siang, Lower Siang, and parts of East Siang districts.
• They belong to the Mongoloid race and speak the Galo language, which is a dialect of the Sino-Tibetan language family.
• Galos are known for practicing shifting cultivation, particularly Jhum farming, and their cultural traditions revolve around nature and agriculture.
• The tribe follows its indigenous religion called Donyi-Polo, worshipping the Sun and Moon as deities.
• They celebrate important festivals such as Mopin, which is marked by rituals for prosperity and happiness.

Additional Information

• Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh:
  • Arunachal Pradesh is home to multiple indigenous tribes including Galos, Nyishis, Apatanis, Adis, and Monpas.
  • Most of these tribes have distinct languages, traditions, and cultural practices.
• Jhum Cultivation:
  • Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional agricultural practice in which a patch of land is cleared, cultivated, and abandoned for regeneration.
  • It is common among many tribes in northeastern India.
• Donyi-Polo Faith:
  • Donyi-Polo is the indigenous religion of many Arunachal tribes, emphasizing the worship of the Sun (Donyi) and Moon (Polo).
  • The faith promotes harmony with nature and ancestral rituals.
• Mopin Festival:
  • Mopin is the major festival celebrated by the Galo tribe to invoke blessings for a good harvest, health, and prosperity.
  • It involves rituals, folk dances, and communal feasting.

The correct answer is Onge.

Key Points

• The Onge tribe is one of the indigenous tribes primarily found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• The Onge are classified as a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) by the Government of India.
• They are believed to have migrated to the islands thousands of years ago and have traditionally lived as hunter-gatherers.
• The Onge population is critically low, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining, posing a major concern for their survival and conservation.
• The tribe primarily resides in the southern part of Little Andaman Island.

Additional Information

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
  • Located in the Bay of Bengal, these islands are known for their rich biodiversity and indigenous tribes.
  • Major tribes include the Onge, Jarawa, Great Andamanese, and Sentinelese.
• Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs):
  • PVTGs are communities recognized for their pre-agricultural level of technology, stagnant or declining population, and extremely low literacy levels.
  • India has identified 75 PVTGs, including the Onge tribe.
• Hunter-Gatherer Lifestyle:
  • The Onge traditionally rely on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance.
  • Modern influences and restricted access to resources have impacted their traditional way of life.
• Conservation Efforts:
  • Various government and non-governmental initiatives aim to preserve the culture and livelihood of PVTGs like the Onge.
  • Focus areas include health care, education, and legal protection of their land and resources.

The correct answer is Agariya.

Key Points

• The Gond tribe is one of the largest tribal groups in India, primarily residing in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Agariya is a significant sub-caste of the Gond tribe, known for their historical involvement in iron smelting and agricultural practices.
• The Gond tribe is classified as a Scheduled Tribe in India, granting them access to various social and economic benefits under the Constitution of India.
• Other notable sub-castes of the Gond tribe include Khatola, Ojha, and Dhurwe, among others, each with unique cultural and occupational traits.
• The Gond people have a rich cultural heritage, including folk art, music, and religious practices, which vary across their sub-castes.

Additional Information

• Scheduled Tribes in India:
  • Scheduled Tribes are indigenous communities recognized under the Constitution of India for their distinct cultural identities and socio-economic challenges.
  • They are provided special benefits and reservations in education, employment, and political representation to uplift their status.
  • India has over 700 Scheduled Tribes, which account for approximately 8.6% of the country's population as per the Census 2011.
• Gond Art:
  • Gond art is a traditional form of painting originating from the Gond tribe, characterized by intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
  • The art often depicts folklore, nature, and daily life, reflecting the tribe's cultural beliefs and connection with nature.
• Iron Smelting by Agariya Sub-Caste:
  • The Agariya sub-caste historically specialized in iron smelting, utilizing traditional techniques passed down through generations.
  • Modern advancements have reduced reliance on traditional iron smelting, pushing the Agariya community towards other occupations like agriculture.
• Other Sub-Castes of Gond Tribe:
  • In addition to Agariya, sub-castes such as Pradhan, Khatola, Dhurwe, and Ojha are prominent among the Gond tribe.
  • Each sub-caste has distinct cultural practices, including specific festivals, rituals, and occupational roles.

The correct answer is Chhindwara district.

Key Points

• The Bharia tribe predominantly resides in the Patalkot valley of Chhindwara district in Madhya Pradesh.
• The Bharia tribe is known for their distinct cultural practices and traditional knowledge.
• Patalkot valley, where the Bharia tribe lives, is renowned for its lush green landscapes and unique ecosystem.
• The Bharia people speak a dialect of the Dravidian language family, which is distinct from other regional languages.

Additional Information

• Tribal Population in India
  • India is home to a significant tribal population, with more than 700 distinct tribes recognized.
  • Tribal communities are primarily found in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and northeastern states.
  • Tribes in India have a rich cultural heritage, including unique languages, traditions, and art forms.
  • The government has various schemes aimed at the welfare and development of tribal communities.
• Patalkot Valley
  • Patalkot is a valley in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.
  • The valley is located at an average height of 2750–3250 feet above sea level.
  • Patalkot has been a significant area for the study of traditional herbal medicine practiced by the Bharia tribe.
  • The valley is relatively isolated, preserving the unique culture and lifestyle of its inhabitants.
• Dravidian Language Family
  • The Dravidian language family includes languages like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
  • These languages are primarily spoken in southern India and some parts of central India.
  • Dravidian languages have their own script and have contributed significantly to Indian literature and culture.
  • The Bharia tribe's dialect is part of this language family, showcasing the linguistic diversity within the tribal communities.

The correct answer is Guls or Kuls.

Key Points

• Guls or Kuls are traditional water channels used in Himachal Pradesh to divert water from glaciers or rainwater to villages for irrigation and other agricultural purposes.
• These channels are constructed using locally available materials like mud, stones, and wood, making them cost-effective and sustainable.
• The water is distributed evenly across fields through a network of small channels, ensuring efficient irrigation in hilly terrains.
• Guls or Kuls have been used for centuries in the region and are an excellent example of traditional water management systems in India.
• They are primarily found in the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, where agriculture heavily depends on glacial meltwater and rainfall.

Additional Information

• Khadins
  • Khadins are traditional water harvesting systems found in Rajasthan.
  • They consist of a bund (embankment) built across a slope to capture surface runoff and allow it to percolate into the ground.
  • They are used for both irrigation and groundwater recharge in arid and semi-arid regions.
• Johads
  • Johads are small earthen check dams constructed to collect and store rainwater.
  • They are primarily found in Rajasthan and other parts of northwestern India.
  • Johads help in increasing groundwater levels and are used for drinking water and irrigation purposes.
• Baori
  • Baoris are stepwells found in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
  • They serve as water storage systems and are known for their architectural beauty.
  • These structures provide water for drinking and other daily activities, especially during the dry season.
• Traditional Water Management in India
  • India has a rich tradition of indigenous water management systems adapted to local climatic and geographical conditions.
  • Examples include Zabo (Nagaland), Bamboo Drip Irrigation (Meghalaya), and Eri (Tamil Nadu).
  • These systems emphasize sustainability, community participation, and efficient use of resources.

The correct answer is Nepal.

Key Points

• The Magar and Tharu are indigenous ethnic communities predominantly found in Nepal.
• The Magar community is one of the largest indigenous groups in Nepal, known for their cultural and linguistic diversity.
• The Tharu community is primarily concentrated in the Terai region of Nepal and is known for their unique traditions and agricultural practices.
• Both communities have rich cultural heritages, including traditional dances, music, and rituals, which are integral to Nepal's cultural diversity.
• These communities play a significant role in Nepal's socio-economic landscape, with many engaging in agriculture, handicrafts, and tourism industries.

Additional Information

• Magar Community
  • The Magar people primarily inhabit the mid-hill regions of Nepal, including areas like Palpa, Rolpa, and Rukum.
  • Magar language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family and has several dialects.
  • Magars have a long history of serving in the British and Indian Gurkha regiments, known for their bravery.
  • They practice a blend of animism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
• Tharu Community
  • The Tharu people are indigenous to the Terai region, which lies along the southern plains of Nepal.
  • They are known for their resilience to malaria, which historically made them the primary inhabitants of the region.
  • Tharu culture is characterized by unique art forms, such as wall painting and traditional Tharu dances.
  • They celebrate festivals like Maghi, which marks the Tharu New Year and involves traditional food and dances.
• Ethnic Diversity in Nepal
  • Nepal is home to over 125 ethnic groups, making it one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world.
  • These groups speak more than 120 different languages and dialects.
  • The ethnic communities have contributed significantly to Nepal's cultural, linguistic, and historical richness.
  • The government of Nepal recognizes these groups as indigenous nationalities and works to preserve their heritage.
• Terai Region of Nepal
  • The Terai is the southernmost part of Nepal and is known for its fertile plains.
  • This region is home to a majority of the Tharu population as well as other ethnic communities.
  • The Terai contributes significantly to Nepal's agriculture and economy.
  • It serves as a cultural melting pot due to its proximity to India and diverse population.

The correct answer is Santhal.

Key Points

• The Santhal tribe is the largest tribal community in Jharkhand, constituting around 34% of the total tribal population in the state.
• Santhals are primarily concentrated in the districts of Dumka, Pakur, and Sahebganj in Jharkhand.
• The tribe has a rich cultural heritage, including the Santhali language, which is part of the Austroasiatic language family and has its own script called Ol Chiki.
• The Santhals are traditionally agriculturalists and have also been known for their involvement in forestry and hunting.
• The Santhal Rebellion (1855-1856) against the British colonial rule is a significant historical event in India’s tribal history.

Additional Information

• Tribal Population in Jharkhand:
  • Jharkhand has a significant tribal population, comprising 26.2% of the state’s total population as per the 2011 Census.
  • Other major tribes in Jharkhand include Oraon, Munda, and Ho.
• Santhal Rebellion:
  • The Santhal Rebellion, also known as the Santal Hul, was a revolt led by the Santhals against the oppressive policies of the British East India Company and Zamindari system.
  • It started in 1855 under the leadership of Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu.
• Ol Chiki Script:
  • Ol Chiki is the official script for writing the Santhali language, developed by Pandit Raghunath Murmu in 1925.
  • The script is unique and has gained recognition in India for preserving the cultural identity of the Santhal community.
• Cultural Practices:
  • Santhals are known for their vibrant cultural practices, including traditional dances like Santhal dance, performed during festivals like Sohrai and Karam.
  • Their music, played with traditional instruments such as the tumdak and banam, forms an integral part of their cultural identity.

The correct answer is 1) Dajia.

Key Points

• Dajia is a traditional agricultural practice adopted by tribal communities in the South-East regions of Rajasthan.
• It involves the clearing of small patches of forest land for farming, followed by the cultivation of crops such as maize, millets, and pulses.
• The practice is characterized by its rotational nature, where a piece of land is cultivated for a few seasons and then left fallow for natural regeneration.
• Dajia farming is closely associated with the subsistence economy of tribal groups, ensuring food security and livelihood.
• This form of shifting cultivation is ecologically significant, as it supports biodiversity and maintains soil fertility through natural processes.

Additional Information

• Shifting Cultivation:
  • A traditional farming method where a piece of land is cultivated temporarily and then abandoned for natural vegetation to regenerate.
  • Commonly practiced in hilly or forested regions by indigenous communities.
• Challenges of Dajia:
  • Deforestation and loss of forest cover due to clearing of land.
  • Low agricultural yield compared to modern farming methods.
• Alternative Practices:
  • Agroforestry: Integrating trees and crops in the same area to enhance productivity and sustainability.
  • Terrace Farming: Used in hilly regions to prevent soil erosion and improve water retention.
• Rajasthan's Tribal Population:
  • The major tribes in South-East Rajasthan include Bhils and Meenas, who rely on traditional agricultural practices like Dajia.
  • These practices are deeply rooted in the cultural and socio-economic fabric of the tribal communities.

The correct answer is 1) Dungarpur, Banswara, Udaipur.

Key Points

• The Damore tribe is primarily concentrated in the southern districts of Rajasthan, specifically in Dungarpur, Banswara, and Udaipur.
• The Damore tribe is a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in India and is recognized for its distinct cultural and social identity.
• They are predominantly engaged in agriculture and allied activities as their primary source of livelihood.
• The Damore community is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional folk songs, dances, and attire.
• The regions where the Damore tribe resides are part of the tribal belt of southern Rajasthan, which is characterized by hilly terrains and significant tribal populations.

Additional Information

• Scheduled Tribes in Rajasthan:
  • Rajasthan is home to several Scheduled Tribes (STs), including Bhils, Meenas, Garasias, Sahariyas, and Damores.
  • The tribal population accounts for a significant portion of the state's demographic composition, especially in southern Rajasthan.
• Geography of Southern Rajasthan:
  • Southern Rajasthan, where the Damore tribe is concentrated, features rugged hills and forests of the Aravalli range.
  • This region has a tribal-dominated ecosystem, with a blend of natural resources and traditional practices.
• Traditional Practices of Damore Tribe:
  • The Damore tribe follows unique rituals and customs, which are closely tied to their agrarian lifestyle and natural surroundings.
  • Festivals and ceremonies are integral to their community life, often involving music, dance, and vibrant traditional attire.
• Government Initiatives for Tribes:
  • The Indian government and the Rajasthan state government have implemented various welfare schemes for the upliftment of tribal communities.
  • These initiatives include education, healthcare, skill development, and financial assistance programs.

The correct answer is Galos.

Key Points

• The Galo tribe is one of the prominent tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, primarily residing in the West Siang, Lower Siang, and parts of East Siang districts.
• They belong to the Mongoloid race and speak the Galo language, which is a dialect of the Sino-Tibetan language family.
• Galos are known for practicing shifting cultivation, particularly Jhum farming, and their cultural traditions revolve around nature and agriculture.
• The tribe follows its indigenous religion called Donyi-Polo, worshipping the Sun and Moon as deities.
• They celebrate important festivals such as Mopin, which is marked by rituals for prosperity and happiness.

Additional Information

• Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh:
  • Arunachal Pradesh is home to multiple indigenous tribes including Galos, Nyishis, Apatanis, Adis, and Monpas.
  • Most of these tribes have distinct languages, traditions, and cultural practices.
• Jhum Cultivation:
  • Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional agricultural practice in which a patch of land is cleared, cultivated, and abandoned for regeneration.
  • It is common among many tribes in northeastern India.
• Donyi-Polo Faith:
  • Donyi-Polo is the indigenous religion of many Arunachal tribes, emphasizing the worship of the Sun (Donyi) and Moon (Polo).
  • The faith promotes harmony with nature and ancestral rituals.
• Mopin Festival:
  • Mopin is the major festival celebrated by the Galo tribe to invoke blessings for a good harvest, health, and prosperity.
  • It involves rituals, folk dances, and communal feasting.