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Synopsis A tribe, viewed historically or developmentally, consists of a social group existing before the development of, or outside of, states, though some modern theorists hold that contemporary tribes can only be understood in terms of their relationship to states. Archaeologists continue to explore the development of pre-state tribes. Current research suggests that tribal structures constituted one type of adaptation to situations providing plentiful yet unpredictable resources. Such structures proved flexible enough to coordinate production and distribution of food in times of scarcity, without limiting or constraining people during times of surplus. This encyclopaedia has been compiled and edited to include different aspects of world tribes. This includes comprehensive account of the socio cultural profile and development programme of tribes of the world. An attempt has been made to include most of the tribes from the different parts of the world. This encyclopaedia will be much useful to students, teachers and scholars studying tribes in India and abroad.