Synopsis The Scheduled Tribe population in India form a distinct social economic and cultural group. Having lived in near isolation for several generations in the hilly and forest areas, they have evolved a way of life of their own to suit the environment in which they are living. Of the total Scheduled Tribe population of 8.43 Crores (2001 Census) in the country, more than 50% live in central India and adjoining hills in south India. There are about 700 Scheduled Tribes notified as per provisions of Constitution of India and 75 of them have been recognised as Primitive Tribes for providing special attention for their development in view of their small population, extreme backwardness, stagnant or dwindling population and very low literacy.