Scheduled tribes in India have a thousand miles to go to understand their rights

By Stalyn Ingti* 
The 28th International Day of the World's Indigenous People is going to be observed around the world on the 9th of August, 2022. On this occasion, the Adivasi Samanvay Manch, Bharat (ASMB) wishes a meaningful celebration of the day. May the celebration successfully spread the UN's message on the protection and promotion of the rights of the indigenous people!
As we all know, the International Day of the World Indigenous People, besides commemorating the first meeting of UN Working Group on Indigenous Population, is observed on the 9th of August every year to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world's indigenous people. It also recognizes "the achievement and contributions that indigenous people make to improve world issues such as environmental protection". This year, though the celebration focuses on the "The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge", every member of the indigenous people should be aware of his/her rights and make united effort to secure them.
Nearly three decades have passed since the first observance of the day in 1995, but we, the indigenous people of India who are known as 'Adivasi' or 'Scheduled Tribe' , have a thousand miles to go in understand ourselves and our rights. The rights, interests and identities including languages and cultures of the indigenous people of India are at stake. Therefore, in order to protect and promote the rights of the indigenous people, all 'Adivasis/Scheduled Tribes' of all regions in India should explore ways and means to share knowledge and experiences in drawing a road map towards forging united efforts.
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President, Adivasi Samanvay Manch, Bharat