Raika tribe and the vanishing craft of camel herding

In the rugged landscapes of Kumbhalgarh, nestled in Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district, the Raika tribe continues to practise a centuries-old tradition that is rapidly disappearing — camel herding.

Revered for their unique bond with camels, the Raikas are not just herders; they are custodians of an ancient pastoral knowledge system shaped by the rhythms of the desert and the resilience of its people.

For generations, the Raikas have been the primary breeders and caretakers of Rajasthan’s indigenous camel breeds, especially the hardy Marwari camel, known for its strength, endurance, and adaptability to desert climates.

Camel herding is not merely a livelihood for the Raikas — it is a cultural identity, deeply tied to their rituals, stories, and seasonal migrations. Traditionally, they followed age-old migratory routes, allowing camels to graze across vast swathes of common land, feeding on desert shrubs and medicinal plants, which also contributed to the animals’ robustness.

The decline in the utility of camels — as transport animals, agricultural aids or status symbols — has deeply impacted the economic viability of camel husbandry.

The modernisation of transport, shrinking grazing lands due to development and agriculture, and a lack of institutional support have all contributed to a dramatic reduction in camel populations across Rajasthan.