Yanadi Tribe

Nov. 5, 2024

Three children of the Yanadi tribe who went missing from their homes at Kalekhanpeta in Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh, were traced recently.

About Yanadi Tribe:

  • Yanadis are one of the major scheduled tribes of Andhra Pradesh.
  • They are among the most vulnerable tribal groups in India. They live in extreme conditions of poverty and social exclusion.
  • A significant population of Yanadis live in the plains of Nellore, a district in the eastern coastal state of Andhra Pradesh.
  • Their population according to 2001 census reports is 4,62,167 in Andhra Pradesh.
  • Their mother tongue is Telugu.
  • Historically, the Yanadis have been associated with occupations such as hunting, gathering, and agriculture, relying on their intimate knowledge of the land and its resources for sustenance.
  • They have rich traditional health knowledge, including knowledge for everyday healthcare and specialized knowledge (e.g., snakebite cures).
    • They harness the medicinal potential of plants for treating gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory ailments, skin conditions, and reproductive health issues.
  • Yanadis have many religious beliefs and festivals connected with the forest flora.
  • Dhimsa Dance: It is a dance performed by the Yanadi tribe during festivals and special occasions.