Five tribes in Andaman and Nicobar facing extinction

Five tribes in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are facing the threat of extinction as their population has dwindled to less than 500 each.

Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of States for Tribal Affairs Ranee Narah today said population of five tribal groups namely Great Andamanese, Onge, Sentinelese, Shom Pen and Jarawa is less than 500 each.

As per the 2001 Census, the population of Great Andamanese tribe is 43, Sentinelese 39, Onge 96, Jarawa 240 and Shom Pen 398.
Narah said that a scheme for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PTGs) covers 75 identified tribes.

"The scheme enables every state to focus on areas that they consider is relevant to their PTGs and their identities as well as culture," the Minister added.