Expanding Tourism Threatens Cultural Identity and Ecosystem of Indian Tribes

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

As tourism expands in tribal regions of India, indigenous communities face threats to their cultural identity and ecosystem, sparking concerns among activists and tribe members.

The rapid expansion of tourism in India’s tribal regions is raising alarms about the potential destruction of indigenous cultures and ecosystems. Jitu Jakesika, a member of the Dongria Kondh tribe in Odisha, recounts how the influx of tourists has transformed his village, not always for the better. Tourists often treat tribal members more like attractions than people, engaging in invasive photography and inappropriate behaviour, which Jakesika and his community find deeply discomforting.

India’s tribal population, which makes up 8.6% of its 1.4 billion people, is uniquely affected by the government and private sector’s push towards tribal and eco-tourism. Despite national strategies that call for local community involvement in such tourism projects, implementation often falls short. Critics point to major developments, like the proposed $9 billion project on Greater Nicobar Island, which plans to overhaul the land of the indigenous Shompen tribe for urban development, sparking international outrage and claims of cultural genocide.

The situation is similar in other parts of India, where tourism development often proceeds without sufficient regard for local tribes’ rights and well-being. For instance, in the Simlipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, home to several particularly vulnerable tribal groups, rampant construction and frequent tourist traffic are harming biodiversity and disrupting local lives.

Activists argue that while tribal tourism can bring economic benefits, it often does so at a high cost to the tribes. Soumitra Ghosh, a social activist based in Siliguri, criticizes the unregulated nature of eco-tourism in West Bengal, which leads to exploitation and loss of tribal lands. He advocates for clear regulations on tourism development, including limits on the number of resorts and tourist footfall, to protect tribal interests.

Some tribes are taking matters into their own hands, developing sustainable tourism initiatives that respect their cultural practices and environment. For example, the Dhurwa tribe has started offering eco-friendly activities like bamboo rafting, which not only provides a livelihood but also ensures they maintain control over their resources.

As tourism continues to grow, it is crucial for the government and the industry to prioritize the rights and dignity of tribal communities, ensuring that tourism develops in a way that is ethical and sustainable, respecting the very cultures it seeks to celebrate.

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