As per 1991 census there are 29283 scheduled tribes in the District and this comes 3.03% of the total population.

The Scheduled Tribe people in the district are -

• Koragas

• Maratis

• Adiyans

• Malakkudiyas

The Koragas are one of the most primitive tribes, living in Kasaragod Taluk only. The traditional occupation of these people is basket and skepe making. They are financially, educationally and culturally backward. But the Maratis are educationally and culturally forward people than the other tribes.

The Tribal Development Department is implementing many schemes for the development of the tribes in the District. Like the Scheduled Caste people, Scheduled Tribe people also have their own customs and rituals.

Functions of TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE, Kasargod

• Implementation of Economic Development Schemes and Welfare schemes of Scheduled Tribes.

• Distribution of Educational concession to Pre-matric & Post-matric Scheduled Tribe students

• Conduct medical and awareness camps in the settlement.

• Conduct youth festivals and cultural programmes.