The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Administration has launched a Van Dhan Vikas Kendra at Dugong Creek (Little Andaman) under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN).
The initiative aims to promote economic self-reliance among the Onge Tribe, one of India’s most isolated Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
🔹 About the Onge Tribe
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Classification: PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group)
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Ethnic Origin: Negrito racial group
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Habitat: Native to Little Andaman Island, the southernmost in the Andaman chain
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Settlement: Relocated to Dugong Creek in 1976 for better access to healthcare and amenities
Lifestyle
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Traditionally semi-nomadic foragers, dependent on forests, sea, and natural resources
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Currently engaged in coconut-based livelihood activities under government initiatives
🔹 Cultural and Social Aspects
Religion
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Practice animism: belief in spirits residing in forests, seas, diseases, storms, and ancestors
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No structured rituals or worship practices
Language
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Unique Onge language without a written script
Traditions & Customs
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Red teeth = vitality; white teeth = death
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Chew tree bark to redden teeth
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Use white and ochre clay for body decoration during festivals and community events
🔹 Demographic Shifts and Challenges
Historical Background
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Before the 1940s: Sole inhabitants of Little Andaman (Goubalambabey)
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Post-colonial settlements and external contact caused a drastic demographic decline
Population Decline
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1900: ~670 individuals
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Early 2000s: ~96 individuals
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Decline due to disease, displacement, and infertility
Fertility Crisis
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Over 40% infertility among married couples → among the highest globally
Current Demographics
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Co-exist on the 732 sq km island with 17,000+ settlers from mainland India and nearby regions
🛠️ Government Support & Welfare Measures
The Van Dhan Vikas Kendra at Dugong Creek aims to:
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Promote tribal entrepreneurship
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Foster livelihood generation via coconut-based value chains
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Support economic self-reliance and cultural preservation
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Align with PM-JANMAN to uplift PVTGs through sustainable livelihood programs
✅ Conclusion
The Onge Tribe represents a vital part of India’s tribal and cultural diversity but faces serious threats from demographic decline, infertility, and cultural erosion.
Government initiatives like the Van Dhan Vikas Kendra under PM-JANMAN are critical for ensuring their socio-economic sustainability while preserving their unique traditions.