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UPSC Prelims 1979 · Indian Geography · People and Settlements
The maximum percentage of the tribal population in India constitutes
- (a) Bhils
- (b) Santhals
- (c) Mundas
- (d) Nagas
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (a) Bhils
Bhils are the largest tribal group in India.
The idea
This comparison concerns the size of a tribal community across India. It is different from asking which State has the largest tribal population or the highest tribal share. A community spread across several States must be counted across its recognised regional groups, using the relevant historical data.
Why the others are wrong
(b) Santhals are among the largest, but below Bhils.
The trap
Gonds are close to Bhils in number.
Also know
Bhil communities occupy a western-central belt across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Gond communities have a broad central Indian distribution, while Santhal and Munda communities are associated with eastern plateau regions. A shared umbrella name can include several locally named groups.
🔒 Largest tribes: Bhil > Gond > Santhal.
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