Q. The word Adivasi was used for the first time to refer to the tribal people by
(a) B. R. Ambedkar
(b) Mahatma Gandhi
(c) Jyotiba Phule
(d) Thakkar Bappa.
Ans: (c) Jyotiba Phule
Explanation: The word “Adivasi” was used for the first time to refer to the tribal people by (c) Jyotiba Phule.
Jyotiba Phule, a social reformer and activist from Maharashtra, is credited with coining the term “Adivasi” to describe the indigenous or tribal communities in India. Phule used this term in the 19th century as part of his efforts to advocate for the rights and upliftment of marginalized communities, including tribal populations.
Phule, along with his wife Savitribai Phule, worked tirelessly for the education and empowerment of oppressed sections of society. He emphasized the importance of social justice and fought against caste-based discrimination.
While B.R. Ambedkar, Mahatma Gandhi, and Thakkar Bappa also made significant contributions to social and political movements in India, they are not specifically credited with coining the term “Adivasi.”
Therefore, the correct answer is (c) Jyotiba Phule.