ADI SANSKRITI: A STUDY ON DIGITAL PRESERVATION, EDUCATION, AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT OF TRIBAL CULTURE IN INDIA

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has created new opportunities for the preservation and promotion of indigenous cultural heritage. This study examines AdiSanskriti, a national-level digital initiative launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, India, aimed at preserving tribal culture while supporting education and economic empowerment. Using a qualitative research approach based on secondary data, the study analyzes official reports and platform content to understand the structure, objectives, and functional components of AdiSanskriti. Content analysis is employed to identify key themes such as digital documentation of tribal heritage, transmission of indigenous knowledge, institutional governance, and livelihood generation through online market places. The findings reveal that AdiSanskriti functions as an integrated digital ecosystem combining a cultural repository, digital learning modules, and an e-commerce platform for tribal artisans. Institutional guidance by autonomous bodies and State Tribal Research Institutes ensures ethical oversight, cultural authenticity, and community participation. The study highlights the platform’s potential to enhance cultural visibility, support intergenerational knowledge transfer, and create economic opportunities for marginalized communities. The challenges related to digital literacy, infrastructure, and sustainability remain. The paper concludes that AdiSanskriti represents a promising model for digitally mediated cultural preservation and empowerment, offering insights for policymakers, cultural institutions, and researchers seeking to integrate technology with heritage conservation and inclusive development.