Tribal Communities in Andhra Pradesh

Context (TH): The Porja, Bagata, and Konda Dora tribes in Andhra Pradesh face significant challenges due to the lack of electricity and clean water.

• These tribes have played an essential role in the construction of the Lower Sileru Hydro-Electric Project (LSP) on the Sileru River.

Bagata/Bhakta Tribe

• Found in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, these tribes are primarily engaged in agriculture.
• The Bagata people speak Oriya (dialect), Telugu, and Adivasi Oriya and practice a blend of Hindu and tribal religious traditions.
• Dhimsa is a notable dance among the Bagata tribes, with their dances collectively referred to as Sankidi Kelbar.

Porja Tribe (Palanquin Bearers)

• Recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), they practice Podu, or shifting cultivation.

Konda Dora/Pandava Dora Tribe

• The Konda Dora tribe inhabits the Konda Kamberu ranges of the Eastern Ghats, which extend across Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
• While they originally spoke Kubi/Konda, they now use a blend of Telugu and Odia languages.