Q1. The maximum percentage of the tribal population in India constitutes
(a) Bhils
(b) Santhals
(c) Mundas
(d) Nagas
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (b) Santhals
Explanation: The Santhals are one of the largest tribal communities in India, primarily found in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal. Their population size and cultural presence make them the most populous tribal group.
Q2. Which of the following tribes is not found in Central India ?
(a) Todas
(b) Gonds
(c) Mundas
(d) Bhils
(UPSC Prelims 1985)
Answer: (a) Todas
Explanation: The Todas are a tribal community found in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, which is in South India, not Central India. In contrast, Gonds, Mundas, and Bhils are prominent tribes of Central India, especially in states like Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
Q3. Which of the following States has the largest population of Scheduled Tribes?
(a) Assam
(b) Madhya Pradesh
(c) Bihar
(d) West Bengal
(UPSC Prelims 1986)
Answer: (b) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: Madhya Pradesh has historically had the largest Scheduled Tribe population in India, with numerous tribal communities spread across its forested and hilly regions.
Q4. ‘Khasi’ and ‘Garo’ tribes mainly live in
(a) Kerala
(b) Meghalaya
(c) Chota Nagpur
(d) Tamil Nadu
(UPSC Prelims 1987)
Answer: (b) Meghalaya
Explanation: The Khasi and Garo tribes are indigenous to Meghalaya, a state in northeastern India. They are known for their matrilineal society, rich cultural heritage, and traditional governance systems.
Q5. Governor of which State has been entrusted with the special powers for the administration of tribal areas ?
(a) Bihar
(b) Madhya Pradesh
(c) Assam
(d) Arunachal Pradesh
(UPSC Prelims 1987)
Answer: (c) Assam
Explanation: Under Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, the Governor of Assam has special powers to administer tribal areas through Autonomous District Councils, ensuring local self-governance and cultural preservation.
Q6. ‘Lushai’ is the name given to tribal population living in
(a) Nagaland
(b) Manipur
(c) Tripura
(d) Meghalaya
(UPSC Prelims 1987)
Answer: (c) Tripura
Explanation: The Lushai tribe, also known as Mizo, primarily inhabits regions of Tripura and Mizoram. They have a distinct cultural identity and language, and their name is historically associated with the Lushai Hills.