Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised tribal communities for saving forests and continuing a tradition of an eco-friendly lifestyle, saying that when it comes to protecting their rights and land, the tribes fight back. Addressing the 49th episode of his radio programme "Mann Ki Baat", Modi acknowledged tribal cultures that believes in protecting "environment, trees and tigers".

"This is a fact that the tribal community believes in very peaceful and harmonious co-existence but, if somebody tries to harm and cause damage to their natural resources, they do not shy away from fighting for their rights," Modi said.