Hi!

I don't think the issue is simply over whether or not the tribal groups want
development or our version of it - after all how much of it have they been
exposed to, that they can make a rational,, informed choice? Are the
Jarawas, for example, aware of what has happened to the other tribes that
the authorities in their infinite wisdom decided to "civilise" or "develop".
If the price of teaching them to count up to ten and handing out a few food
parcels is decimating their entire community and their way of life, is it
really worth it or necessary?

And comparing the tribals of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the ones
within the subcontinent is not very valid as the level of interaction with
outsiders, immunity to diseases and cultural affinity and ability to adapt
effectively is completely different.

Rgds,

Priya

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