Introduction / History

Traditionally the Kawar people were soldiers, but today they are usually involved with agriculture. They are among what the Indian government calls the "scheduled tribes. " Because scheduled tribes are underdeveloped economically, the Indian government has attempted to bring them into the mainstream of political and economic life. The tribes were "scheduled" for special treatment and privileges. The Kawar people are more fortunate than most scheduled tribes. As things go in India, those least fortunate are usually the last to receive help, which goes to those with the best political connections.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some of the Kawar people have become so absorbed by the cultures of the surrounding peoples that they are no longer considered to be true Kawar. They have completely lost their language and former culture and now speak Hindi instead. Ironically, Kawar "scheduled tribe" members are often landowners. There is a significantly higher standard of living for those who own the land vs. those who are farm laborers. Some of them are also farm laborers or construction workers. Like many other rural peoples, the Kawar have their elders act as community leaders. They settle disputes and maintain social order.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kawar are almost exclusively Hindu. They follow Hindu practices, but still mix their traditional beliefs with their practice of Hinduism.

What Are Their Needs?

Medical facilities among the Kawar are inadequate. Even where the medical personnel are available, medicines, instruments, and essential provisions for the patients are lacking. There is a need for adequate medical equipment and staff, especially for the control of sexually transmitted diseases, leprosy and other communicable diseases.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Kawar people teachable and understanding hearts. Pray that a strong movement of the Holy Spirit will bring entire Kawar families into a rich experience of God's blessing. Pray for Kawar families to be drawn by the Holy Spirit to seek forgiveness, and to understand the adequacy of Christ's work on the cross. Pray for teams of believers to do sustained, focused prayer for the Lord to open the hearts of Kawar family leaders to experience God's blessing through a movement of family-based discovery Bible studies.

Scripture Prayers for the Kawar in India.