A Tribal Hamlet’s tryst with AI: Limbuguda’s digital turn

Context

In the remote hills of Kumram Bheem Asifabad district in Telangana, Limbuguda, a hamlet of less than 40 Kolam tribal families, is witnessing a silent transformation. A Multipurpose Centre (MPC) set up under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan is using AI-assisted tools to improve education, healthcare and nutrition in one of the most marginalised, Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) habitations.

Quotes on Tribal Communities

About PVTGs

• Fourth Five-Year Plan devised a sub-category within the STs to identify the most vulnerable groups as PVTGs.
• There are 75 PVTGs spread over 18 states and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Criteria for identification of PVTGs as based on the Dhebar Commission report:
  • Pre-agriculture level of technology
  • Stagnant or declining population,
  • Low level of literacy,
  • Subsistence level of the economy

Significance of PVTGs

• Cultural preservation: The Toda tribe of the Nilgiri hills is known to preserve traditional embroidery and unique temple architecture, adding to the country’s cultural fabric.
• Environment stewardship: The Baiga tribe of MP practices shifting cultivation in a way that minimises environmental impact and allows forests to regenerate.
• Sustainable living: The Kattunayakan tribe of Kerala lives in close harmony with nature while relying on the sustainable harvest of honey and non-timber forest products.
• Exemplify indigenous knowledge: The Dongria Kondh tribe of Odisha holds extensive knowledge of medicinal plants found in the Niyamgiri hills which aids modern medical research.

The Multipurpose Centre (MPC): A one-stop facility

• Established in 2025 at ₹60 lakh cost: The centre was built under PM-JANMAN to provide integrated services in remote tribal areas.
• Education, health and nutrition under one roof: The MPC houses an Anganwadi, an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) health unit, a computer lab and a digital learning hall.
• AI-assisted learning tools introduced: Programmes such as Assisted Language Learning (ALL) and Assisted Mathematics Learning (AML) help improve basic skills among primary students.
• Use of digital platforms: For higher classes, tech-enabled resources such as Khan Academy are used to explain mathematics and science concepts in simple ways.

Bridging the Digital Divide

• First exposure to computers: Many tribal children are using computers for the first time within their own village, reducing the rural–urban learning gap.
• Promoting aspirations: Access to digital tools is encouraging students to aim for higher education and government jobs.
• Improved connectivity: The establishment of the MPC also led to the construction of a cement road connecting the hamlet, improving physical access.

Integrated Approach to Development

• Health and nutrition focus: The centre addresses malnutrition and anemia among women and children through regular monitoring and services.
• Renewable energy and infrastructure expansion: The district plans to extend similar MPCs to other PVTG habitations, along with mobile medical units, housing and electricity support.
• Community participation: Local villagers contributed land and support, reflecting ownership and trust in education-led change.

Challenges

• Transport gaps: Lack of regular bus services limits easy access to mandal headquarters and higher institutions.
• Internet connectivity issues: Reliable high-speed internet is needed for smooth functioning of AI-based learning tools.
• Livelihood concerns: Most Kolam families depend on rain-fed cotton farming and daily wage work, pointing to the need for skill development.
• Social barriers: Superstitions, inadequate housing and limited economic opportunities still affect parts of the community.

Cultural Preservation Alongside Technology

• Revival of tribal identity: Murals at the centre celebrate Adivasi heritage and local heroes such as Kumram Bheem, linking modern education with cultural pride.
• Protection of traditional knowledge: Community leaders stress safeguarding indigenous medicinal and ecological knowledge even as digital tools expand.
• Model for tribal empowerment: Limbuguda’s MPC is being seen as a potential role model for other tribal regions.
• Shift from welfare to capacity-building: The focus is not just on infrastructure but on improving skills, confidence and long-term self-reliance.
• Technology as an equaliser: When combined with local participation, AI-assisted education can reduce inequality in remote areas.

Sharing is caring!