Change on the way for Agency tribals

Srikakulam: A change for good is visible in the lifestyle of tribals in Agency areas of Srikakulam district. There has been marginal improvement in the transport facilities and literacy levels in the Agency. According to official reports, about six per cent of the population turned literates.

Unlike earlier, when staple food of tribals consisted of leafy vegetables and pulses-based dishes, tribals in Palakonda, Kotturu, Tekkali, Palasa, Sompeta and other mandals are now consuming rice and curry.

Similarly, purchasing goods like food items and clothes with cash has replaced barter system in local markets at Palakonda, Hiramandal, Kotturu, Sompeta and Mandasa mandal headquarters.

Though still some traditional tribal families continue to depend on forest produce and weekly shandies for their livelihood, there is greater awareness among the youth about the exploitation by middlemen. This section of the tribals refuses to sell their products to middlemen for a lesser price.

They feel that if Girijana Cooperative Corporation (GCC) can purchase forest produce by paying reasonable price to tribals, their life will change for better. Currently, GCC purchases tamarind from tribals at Rs 22 per kg, black cashew seeds at Rs 12, said Adivasi Girijana Sangham leader Savarathota Mukhalingam.

We are now unable to get remuneration equivalent to labour charges for our produce,” said Savara Makayya, Savara Simhadri and Savara Chukkamma of Puthikavalasa, Marripadu and Puliputti villages.

However, Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) project director J Venkata Rao said the ITDA has made arrangements to organise the World Adivasi Day celebrations which will resolve the issues pertaining to the tribals soon.

GCC depot manager P Mohan Rao said, “We are procuring forest produce at price fixed by the State government. But since the tribals are not happy with it, we will take up the issue with higher-ups.”