Describe the main features of tribal movements in India.

Tribal movements in India have been pivotal in highlighting the socio-economic and political struggles of indigenous communities. These movements are characterized by a range of features that reflect the unique challenges faced by tribal populations. Here are some main features of tribal movements in India:

1. Identity Assertion:
   Tribal movements often revolve around the assertion of ethnic, cultural, and social identity. Indigenous communities seek to preserve their distinct identity, languages, and customs in the face of assimilation pressures from mainstream society.

2. Land Rights and Displacement:
   Land is a central theme in tribal movements, as many indigenous communities depend on traditional lands for their livelihoods and cultural practices. Movements often arise in response to land alienation, forced displacement due to development projects, and encroachment on tribal territories.

3. Forest Rights and Livelihood Issues:
   Tribal communities often have strong connections to forests and natural resources. Movements focus on securing forest rights, challenging policies that restrict access to these resources, and advocating for sustainable livelihoods that align with traditional practices.

4. Cultural Marginalization:
   Cultural marginalization is a recurring issue in tribal movements. Indigenous communities face discrimination and stereotyping, leading to their marginalization in educational, social, and economic spheres. Movements strive for cultural recognition and the preservation of indigenous knowledge and heritage.

5. Political Representation:
   A significant feature is the demand for adequate political representation. Tribal movements seek greater representation in legislative bodies, ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes at local, state, and national levels.

6. Resistance to Exploitative Practices:
   Tribal movements often emerge in response to exploitative practices, including unfair labor practices, usurious lending, and other forms of economic exploitation. These movements aim to address systemic inequalities and ensure fair treatment of tribal communities.

7. Influence of Naxalism and Armed Struggles:
   In certain regions, tribal movements have taken the form of armed struggles influenced by Naxalism. Grievances related to land, resource exploitation, and social injustice have fueled armed resistance in some tribal areas, leading to conflicts with state authorities.

8. Legal Frameworks:
   Legal battles play a crucial role in tribal movements. Activists often use constitutional provisions and legislations such as the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, to secure the rights of tribal communities.

9. Alliances with NGOs and Civil Society:
   Tribal movements often form alliances with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups to amplify their voices and garner support. These alliances contribute to advocacy efforts, legal battles, and awareness campaigns.

10. Impact of Globalization:
    Globalization has also influenced tribal movements, with indigenous communities grappling with the impact of economic reforms, changing land-use patterns, and the influx of external influences. Movements often resist these changes to protect their traditional ways of life.

In conclusion, tribal movements in India are multifaceted, addressing a range of issues from identity preservation to economic rights. The complex interplay of historical injustices, economic disparities, and cultural marginalization forms the backdrop against which tribal movements advocate for the empowerment and dignity of indigenous communities.