What was the nature of Tribal Revolts in British India?

"Tribal uprisings against the Britishers were caused by several reasons"

• A new land revenue system was imposed over their lands, and the yield and produce from those regions where subjected to a heavy amount of tax.
• The possession of these tribal lands was gradually moved into the hands of middlemen like traders, moneylenders, and revenue farmers. It was done with the support of Britishers.

What was the nature of the tribal revolts

It was in the 19th century, Tribal uprisings started in several parts of the country. British administration had to face a lot of hardships because of the nature of these revolts. Hence these uprisings had a major role in the freedom struggle of India. Indian tribal communities led a life which was isolated from the mainstream societies. It always helped them to preserve their lifestyle and traditions through centuries. But through such events of struggle to protect their belongings, they became a part of those who fought for a common national cause.

These revolts were against those who oppressed the people in tribal society. Like the feudal lords and landlords, and also against the British government officials. As we know the tribals have a life which is entirely connected with nature. So these uprisings can be characterized as agrarian and based on the forest. Agriculture and Forestry are the major sources of their livelihoods.

Their fight was against the British government officials and petty moneylenders. They fought for the rights on their land and forest. British administration never considered them in their process of social development. Hence they had very little interest in uniformly developing their standard of living. The social and political circumstances that existed at that time had an influence over the tribal societies. It is evident from the fact that several leaders of tribal societies were part of those who created a wave of patriotism and nationality.

Most of the tribal uprisings took place in Northern and North Eastern regions of the country. Such revolts in Southern parts of the countries can be considered as isolated events. When we look at the impact of these uprisings, will find that they were limited to an extent. There were several reasons behind it. Such as lack of combined methodology, non-availability of education or study materials, lack of interpretation, etc. The tribal revolts in India acquired several different forms. They were depended on the nature of grievances they had. Sometimes such uprisings were conservative and revolutionary, while in other situations, they can be reactionary in nature.