The Tribal Research and Training Institute (TRI) was established in 1962 at Pune with the main objectives of conducting research about the tribals in general and specific areas of economic activities affecting tribal life in particular; carrying out of evaluation and monitoring of developmental schemes; collecting and disseminating information regarding tribal life; organising training programmes for tribals; and  building up a museum and a library on tribals. The main activities of TRI at present relate to research; Integrated Area Development Programme; training; publications; library, museum and cultural unit; production of films on tribal life and culture; and scrutiny and verification of tribe claims.  To look after the activities of TRI, a governing council headed by Minister, Tribal Development has been constituted. Brief details of the major activities of TRI are discussed in the following paragraphs.

The Institute holds tribal handicraft exihibitions so as to expose the tribal artists to the urban market. The institute has succeeded in upgrading the economic status of tribal artists by giving them an opportunity to become self-employed.  With a view to preserve the tribal dance tradition and to encourage the tribal dance groups, dance competitions are organised. The dance groups are given prizes, besides providing them allowance to meet incidental expenses.  To promote and preserve the art of Warli painting,  the Institute has been holding Warli painting competitions in tribal areas for adults as well as school children. The winners are given cash prizes.

Documentary films on various aspects of tribal life and development are produced by the Institute.  Since 1981-82, such films have been prepared on 45 topics.

Tribal Cultural Museum

The institute had set up in 1965 a museum which displays nearly 1770 exhibits of all the 47 tribes in Maharashtra. The museum is visited regularly by tourists on Pune Darshan and students. The museum serves as a medium to spread awareness about the tribals and their activities.

In order to reach the benefits of TSP to the tribal population outside TSP area, Government of India permits State Governments to create MADA and Mini-MADA areas, which are clusters of villages with at least 50% tribal population. The TRI prepares proposals for creation of such areas and submits to the State Government for onward transmission  to Central Government for approval. So far, 43 MADA and 24 Mini- MADA areas have been approved.

Bench Mark Survey

TRI has conducted bench mark survey of tribal families covered under Tribal Sub Plan in the State in 1979-80 and 1996-97. Information about economic and social status of tribals is stored in the data bank of  the Institute. This information is useful for planning new schemes for development of tribals.

Evaluation studies

TRI conducts evaluation studies regarding the impact of different schemes implemented for welfare of tribals. So far 201 such studies have been conducted and reports submitted to the Government.