FRICTION IN THE MOUNTAINS: A CASE OF NIYAMGIRI MOVEMENT IN INDIA

Abstract

With the rapid growth of industrialization and the changing global institutions during the globalized era, India is home to many development projects by leading corporate organizations, various multi-lateral, and bi-lateral agencies, which are being implemented in close coordination with the local and state government bodies. The government has joined hands with global agencies to implement large infrastructure development projects that are largely in forests as well as other mineral intensive areas, populated with indigenous communities. The indigenous communities are highly affected in terms of livelihood opportunities, spaces of habitation, land ownership, displacement challenges, access to basic resources etc. in such a situation of disadvantages, tribal communities are witnessing oppression, forceful displacements and loss of livelihood and culture. This paper focuses on understanding the changes that happen in the mountain community of Niyamgiri after the mining company arrives with the help of the state. The central argument of the paper is how indigenous people react to the arrival of the destructive industry and how they witness the phenomena of cultural friction.