Impact of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada on Tribal Communities in Chhattisgarh: Policy Evaluation, Cultural Preservation, and Socioeconomic Development

Author:
Dr. Rupendra Kavi, Anthropologist, Littreture , Philanthropist (Currently Deputy Secretary to the Governor, Chhattisgarh, India)

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 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
   Evaluate the impact of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada on tribal cultural pride
   Assess the effectiveness of government programs in education, livelihood, and cultural preservation
   Identify challenges and opportunities for improvement
   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 ~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
   Strengthen EMRS schools with mentoring, digital resources, and dropout prevention
   Enhance MFP programs through market access and income diversification
   Integrate cultural initiatives with skills training, entrepreneurship, and tourism
   Expand monitoring frameworks across education, health, livelihood, and cultural indicators
   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 (APA Style)
   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. https://theresearchers.asia/old_website_2014-23/Papers/Vol-V%2C%20Issue-II-2019/Impact%20of%20short-term%20parental%20migration%20on%20children-A%20case%20study%20among%20the%20tribal%20community%20of%20Bastar%2C%20Chhattisgarh.pdf
   Kavi, R. (2015). Monographic Study of Bastar Dussehra. Raipur: Tribal Research & Training Institute, Chhattisgarh. Record ID CGTRI/2015/0001. https://repository.tribal.gov.in/upload/handle/123456789/61508?viewItem=search
   Kavi, R., & Singh, R. (2018). Evaluation Study of School Drop‑out Ratio. Raipur: Tribal Research & Training Institute, Chhattisgarh. https://repository.tribal.gov.in/upload/handle/123456789/61967?viewItem=search
   Kavi, R. (2019). बस्तर में आदिवासी विकास (Tribal Development in Bastar). Hindi. B.R. Publishing Corporation. ISBN 978‑9387587649. https://www.exoticindiaart.com/book/details/tribal-development-in-bastar-aze500/
   Xaxa, V. (2001). Tribes in India: Culture, Identity and Development. Economic & Political Weekly, 36(42), 3897–3904
   Singh, A., & Sahu, P. (2022). Policy Implementation Challenges in Tribal India. Journal of Social Policy, 15(3), 45–62
   TRIFED. (2024). Minor Forest Produce Procurement Data. Retrieved from https://trifed.tribal.gov.in
   India Today. (2025). EMRS Dropouts Surge in Chhattisgarh. Retrieved from https://indiatoday.in
   Tribal Welfare Department, Chhattisgarh. (2024). Annual Report on Tribal Development Programs. Retrieved from https://tribal.cg.gov.in/en
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.