Why in News?

In Khetar Kanyal, a village dominated by the Raji tribe in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, the absence of any female candidate for the post of village pradhan (head) has highlighted deeper socio-political and gender representation issues within this marginalized community.

About Raji Tribe

• Location: Primarily found in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, especially in the Pithoragarh district; also present in parts of western Nepal.

• Other Names: Also known as Banrawats, Ben Manus, and cave dwellers due to their traditional lifestyle.

• Classification: Listed as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) by the Government of India.

• Population: One of the smallest tribal communities in India.

• Language: Speak a Tibeto-Burman language called Bat-Kha.

Traditional Lifestyle

• Past Livelihoods:

  • Forest gatherers

  • Honey collection from wild beehives

  • Fishing and small-game hunting

• Present Livelihoods:

  • Transitioning to agriculture: rice, maize, and barley are staple crops.

  • Skilled in handicrafts, particularly weaving and bamboo basketry.

Religion and Beliefs

• Practice a blend of Hinduism and nature worship.

• Rituals often revolve around forests, animals, and natural forces.

Social Structure

• Clan-based society: Each clan has distinct customs and traditions.

• Elders play a central role in conflict resolution and decision-making.

• Local self-governance through Panchayats ensures community cohesion.

Housing and Architecture

• Homes are built from locally available materials: wood, mud, and stone.

• Elevated construction to withstand harsh terrain, wildlife, and flooding.

• Settlements are usually in forest or hilly areas, consistent with their traditional lifestyle.

Conservation and Challenges

• As a PVTG, the Raji tribe faces challenges such as:

  • Loss of traditional livelihood due to forest conservation laws

  • Low literacy and poor health indicators

  • Limited political participation, especially among women

  • Cultural erosion due to modern influences

UPSC Relevance

• Static GK: Tribal groups of India

• Current Affairs: Gender and tribal rights

• Governance & Social Justice: Issues related to PVTGs, Tribal Panchayati Raj

• GS Paper I & II: Society, vulnerable sections, government policies

Raji Tribe – Quick Facts

FAQs on Raji Tribe

Q1. In which Indian state is the Raji tribe mainly found?
Ans: Uttarakhand

Q2. What is another common name for the Raji tribe?
Ans: Banrawats

Q3. Which district of Uttarakhand is primarily inhabited by the Raji tribe?
Ans: Pithoragarh

Q4. What language is spoken by the Raji tribe?
Ans: Bat-Kha (Tibeto-Burman language)

Q5. What is the status of the Raji tribe as per Government classification?
Ans: Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG)