First President from a tribal community: Why did it take so long?

The most dismaying fact is that tribals have a very high dropout rate

With a new President in place who belongs to the Santhal tribe, the focus of attention is now on why it took so long for someone from this community to reach the highest seat of power in India.

One answer is education - and the lack of tribal access to it.

Experts say there are many problems.

In different parts of India, forest dwellers speak in their own language. So communication – and education – has to be in that language. There are many role models for forest people who are legends in resisting plainsmen –