The tribes of India are varied in terms of their socio-economic and political development. They are not a monolithic lot of people. They have differences in terms of their historical backgrounds, socio-economic i and cultural problems and levels of advancement.

Some tribes live in forests and on hills, whereas others live in the plains. Some are settled agriculturists whereas others depend upon forest produce. Some have been in close contact with the wider society and have adopted the life styles Christians and other communities.

As a result of these variations, they are not all found at the same level of socio-political awakening and economic standing. In general, all tribes still form a weaker section of the society, with the exception of their power elite and economically better off.