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Gujarat Announces Voluntary Relocation Scheme for Maldharis
The Gujarat government announces a scheme for the voluntary relocation of maldharis from the Barda sanctuary. The relocation is linked to the development of Barda sanctuary in Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts as a ‘second home’ for Asiatic lions.
Maldharis:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Community profile | Maldharis comprise a semi-nomadic pastoralist community. |
| Primary residence | Maldharis comprise a community primarily residing in Gujarat’s Banni grasslands, Gir Forest, and parts of Rajasthan. |
| Meaning of term | Maldhari comprises a term translating to “keeper of livestock”. |
| Livestock herded | Their herding comprises cattle, sheep, goats, and camels. |
| Livelihood outputs | Their livelihoods comprise production of milk, ghee, wool, and artisanal crafts traded in local markets. |
| Gender roles | Women’s role comprises livestock rearing, and men’s role comprises foraging, selling milk to dairies, and selecting grazing routes. |
| Artistic tradition | Maldhari women comprise artisans known for embroidery that varies by caste and is passed down through generations. |
| Language | Maldharis comprise speakers of Kachchhi in the Sindhi dialect. |
| Religion | Maldharis comprise a population that is about 90% Muslim and 10% Hindu. |