Source: IE
Context: The Dhangar community in Maharashtra, a nomadic group of shepherds are seeking recognition of their traditional grazing routes through forests.
- They have also long advocated for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
- Their recent protest called for “grazing corridors” to allow them to continue their traditional herding practices without being penalized for encroaching on protected forest areas.
The Dhangars, who are listed as a Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribe (VJNT) in Maharashtra, face challenges due to forest department restrictions, which conflict with their traditional lifestyle.
The Dhangar community, has significant political influence in parts of Maharashtra but lacks a unifying issue in recent elections.
