On 10 November 2023, Richard Toppo successfully defended his thesis investigating how Adivasis have mobilized to claim their rights over their land and resources in Jharkhand state in India.
His research focussed on the Chechari valley (and its adjoining areas), where Adivasi communities were threatened with displacement, as well as loss of their traditional-cultural context and livelihoods, all of which have been central to their identity and way of life.
He looked particularly at how Adivasis in the region collectively challenged these policies and the different methods they used, including interacting with sympathetic individuals and groups.
Photos of the defence
Some photos taken during Richard's defence
Read Richards's thesis
You can download Richard's thesis from the ISS Library: 'Countering and contesting hegemonies: Identity-politics and Adivasi social movements in Jharkhand, India'.
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