School of Tribal Studies (SOTS)

The School of Tribal Studies, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV), Indore, is a newly established University Teaching Department (UTD) dedicated to academic excellence, research, and policy engagement in the field of tribal studies. The department was originally founded as the Tribal Studies and Development Center on 16 February 2024 and was subsequently upgraded and renamed as the School of Tribal Studies on 10 January 2025. Transforming from a Center into a full-fledged UTD within such a short span is itself a remarkable achievement, reflecting the importance and potential of tribal studies at DAVV.

Under the visionary leadership of its founder and Head, Prof. Sakharam Mujalde, the School has been actively working to bridge the gap between indigenous knowledge systems and modern research. It aims to create a dynamic academic environment that not only documents and analyzes tribal life but also contributes to inclusive and sustainable development for tribal communities.

The department currently offers only postgraduate program with a strong interdisciplinary orientation, drawing from economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, and development studies. Its areas of specialization include tribal economy and livelihoods, education and health, governance and rights, culture and traditionally heritage, and sustainable resource management.

Since its inception, the department has engaged in research projects, fieldwork initiatives, and collaborations with government departments and NGOs to promote evidence-based policy and grassroots empowerment. Regular seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and community outreach activities enrich the learning experience of students.

With a focus on academic innovation, field-based learning, and interdisciplinary research, the School of Tribal Studies strives to become a national hub for tribal knowledge and policy. It is committed to nurturing young researchers, policymakers, and practitioners who can contribute meaningfully to the challenges and opportunities of tribal development at regional, national, and global levels.

Contact Details:-
  +91-9977941666 / 9131091960
  schooloftribalstudies@gmail.com
Head of the Department Details:-
Name - Prof. Sakharam Mujalde
Affiliation - Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya
Qualification -
Ph.D (Economics) from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (2011)
M.Phil (Economics) from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (2005)
M.A. (Economics) from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (2004)
B.A. from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (2002)
Experience -
Founder in the establishment of the School of Tribal Studies, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (M.P.)
Academic Counsellor Indira Gandhi National Open University
Assistant Professor (Grade II), School of Economics, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (16th December, 2011 – 15th December, 2015)
Assistant Professor (Grade III) , School of Economics, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (16th December, 2015 – 15th December, 2019)
Associate Professor, School of Economics, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (16th December, 2019 - 15th December, 2022)
Professor, School of Economics, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore (16/12/2022 - Onwards)
Member, State Planning Commission Chair on Micro Economic Governance, M.P. from 2013 - 2015.
Secretary, Madhya Pradesh Economic Association, Since 2024.
Full Time Courses
S.No. Programme
1 M.A. (Tribal Studies)