KOZHIKODE: The Kerala Institute for Research Training and Development Studies of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (KIRTADS) has recommended that Anganwadi staff knowing Paniya language should work in tribal areas of Kozhikode. The non-proficiency of the staff in Paniya language has made the Anganwadis unattractive to the Paniya kids. As per the district administration’s requirement, KIRTADS prepared the report after surveying 12 tribal settlements in the district: Chembukadavu, Mele Ponnamkayam, Kottakunnu, Muthappan Puzha, Chipilithodu, Kuravukandy, Nooramthodu, Naakilampaad, Odapoyil, Kolikunnu and Kakkananchery.
The report recommends that either Anganwadi staff should learn Paniya language or a Paniya woman should be arranged for better interaction between the government and tribal people. “Paniya language cannot be understood by others. There are several terms in the language which mean the exact opposite of Malayalam. Though Paniya kids are coming to Anganwadis, they return early without finding the ambience friendly,” said KIRTADS deputy director (training) Dr K.S. Pradeep Kumar. He added that songs, stories and folklore associated with Paniya culture should be taught in Anganwadis. Paniya families are fast losing their unity and strength.
The district has 2,903 Paniya people scattered across the colonies of Kodenchery, Chembukadavu, Pathipara and Vattachira. The survey study also highlights the reckless drinking habit and diseases such as sickle cell anaemia and tuberculosis taking a toll on tribal health. “The problems could be solved to a good extent through women empowerment by means of creating job opportunities, MGNREGA and Kudumbashree,” said district tribal development officer B. Rajeev Kumar. The report has been submitted to the district collector.
