Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada on tribal communities in Chhattisgarh, India, focusing on cultural pride, socioeconomic development, and policy implementation. Using mixed-methods — including literature review, secondary data analysis, and field observations in Bastar — the research assesses the effectiveness of central and state initiatives such as EMRS schools, MFP procurement programs, and cultural campaigns. Findings indicate increased cultural participation and awareness, though challenges remain in accessibility and sustainability. Evidence-based recommendations are provided for improved outcomes.

Keywords: Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada; tribal development; Chhattisgarh; policy evaluation; cultural preservation; socioeconomic empowerment

1. Introduction

Chhattisgarh, home to approximately 30.6% of India’s Scheduled Tribe population, exhibits a rich tribal cultural heritage alongside persistent socioeconomic challenges. The Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada aims to promote awareness of tribal rights, strengthen cultural identity, and support policy implementation.

Drawing upon long-term field research in Bastar as a Tribal Research Officer and anthropologist, this study investigates the impact of these initiatives on cultural pride, education, and livelihood outcomes.

2. Literature Review

Cultural Identity: Tribal communities maintain cohesion through language, rituals, and traditions (Xaxa, 2001). Cultural pride enhances participation and knowledge transfer.

Socioeconomic Development Programs: EMRS schools, MFP procurement, and welfare schemes improve literacy and income, though outcomes vary regionally (TRIFED, 2024).

Policy Implementation Challenges: Barriers include accessibility, monitoring gaps, and sustainability in remote areas (Singh & Sahu, 2022).

Previous Research by Author: Kavi (2015, 2018, 2019) documents Bastar Dussehra, school dropout evaluation, and tribal development patterns, providing unique field-based insights.

3. Objectives

  1. Evaluate the impact of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada on tribal cultural pride.
  2. Assess the effectiveness of government programs in education, livelihood, and cultural preservation.
  3. Identify challenges and opportunities for improvement.
  4. Provide evidence-based recommendations for policy implementation.

4. Methodology

Design: Mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative).

Data Sources:

  • Government reports: Tribal Welfare Department (Chhattisgarh), Ministry of Tribal Affairs (India)
  • Bastar DISE/UDISE+ data on school enrollment and dropout
  • Field-based anthropological observations by the author

Analysis: Comparative assessment of program reach, participation, outcomes, and cultural impact; case studies illustrate best practices and gaps.

5. Results

5.1 Educational Impact

EMRS schools improved enrollment; dropout remains a challenge (India Today, 2025). Scholarships increased girl student enrollment; mentoring gaps noted.

5.2 Livelihood and Economic Impact

MFP procurement programs provide income support; Chhattisgarh contributes approximately 72% of national MFP procurement (TRIFED, 2024). Challenges include equitable distribution and market access.

5.3 Cultural Preservation and Pride

Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada increased participation in traditional dance, music, and crafts. Long-term sustainability and intergenerational knowledge transfer remain limited.

5.4 Challenges Identified

  • Geographic and infrastructural barriers
  • Limited program monitoring and outcome measurement
  • Cultural initiatives sometimes symbolic rather than integrated with socioeconomic development

6. Discussion

Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada positively impacts cultural pride and social awareness. Integration with education and livelihood programs can enhance outcomes. Data-driven monitoring and participatory policy design are recommended to ensure equitable benefit distribution.

7. Recommendations

  1. Strengthen EMRS schools with mentoring, digital resources, and dropout prevention.
  2. Enhance MFP programs through market access and income diversification.
  3. Integrate cultural initiatives with skills training, entrepreneurship, and tourism.
  4. Expand monitoring frameworks across education, health, livelihood, and cultural indicators.
  5. Target interventions in high-density tribal blocks.

8. Conclusion

The Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada enhances cultural awareness and pride among Chhattisgarh’s tribal communities. Combined with state and central policies, it contributes to empowerment. Improved accessibility, monitoring, and integration with livelihood opportunities are essential for full realization of benefits.

9. References

  1. Kavi, R., & Singh, R. (2019). Impact of short-term parental migration on children: A case study among the tribal community of Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The Researchers, 5(2), 30-35. (link)
  2. Kavi, R. (2015). Monographic Study of Bastar Dussehra. Raipur: Tribal Research & Training Institute, Chhattisgarh. Record ID CGTRI/2015/0001. (link)
  3. Kavi, R., & Singh, R. (2018). Evaluation Study of School Drop-out Ratio. Raipur: Tribal Research & Training Institute, Chhattisgarh. (link)
  4. Kavi, R. (2019). बस्तर में आदिवासी विकास (Tribal Development in Bastar). New Delhi: B.R. Publishing Corporation. ISBN 978-9387587649. (link)
  5. Xaxa, V. (2001). Tribes in India: Culture, Identity and Development. Economic & Political Weekly, 36(42), 3897–3904.
  6. Singh, A., & Sahu, P. (2022). Policy Implementation Challenges in Tribal India. Journal of Social Policy, 15(3), 45–62.
  7. TRIFED. (2024). Minor Forest Produce Procurement Data. Retrieved from trifed.tribal.gov.in
  8. India Today. (2025). EMRS Dropouts Surge in Chhattisgarh. Retrieved from indiatoday.in
  9. Tribal Welfare Department, Chhattisgarh. (2024). Annual Report on Tribal Development Programs. Retrieved from tribal.cg.gov.in

10. Disclaimer

The views expressed in this paper are based on academic research and secondary data. This work is conducted in a personal scholarly capacity by Dr. Rupendra Kavi, anthropologist, literature scholar, and philanthropist (currently serving as Deputy Secretary to the Governor, Chhattisgarh). It does not reflect the official position, policy, or views of the Governor’s Secretariat or any government department.

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