Who are the Dhangars of Maharashtra and why are they asking for ‘grazing corridors’ in forests?

Who are the Dhangars of Maharashtra and why are they asking for ‘grazing corridors’ in forests?

Sub : Geo

Sec: Human geo

Context:

• A large group of Dhangars recently marched to the office of the subdivisional officer in Khamgaon of Maharashtra’s Buldhana district, demanding a “grazing corridor” for their sheep and goats.

About Dhangar community:

• The Dhangars are a community of shepherds found mainly in Maharashtra. .
• They are known by other names such as Golla and Kuruba

Status of recognition:

• The Dhangars are on Maharashtra’s list of Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes (VJNT).
• Recognised as Other Backward Classes (OBC) in Central list.
• They have been demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for decades.
• According to Dhangar leaders, the community is identified as “Dhangad” elsewhere in the country, and gets reservation as an ST.

Population:

• The community is believed to be around 1 crore strong, which would make them about 9% of the Maharshtra’s 11.2 crore population (2011 census).
• Around 40% of the Dhangar population is believed to be solely dependent on herding.

Demand for grazing rights:

• The Forest Rights Act, 2006, allows traditional occupations including grazing, but it has helped only STs get access to grazing grounds.
• Dhangars, who come under the nomadic tribes category, have not benefited.