About SRHB

The official research, documentation, and archival authority functioning under WeSantal – Self Government Council

What is SRHB?

The Santali Research & Heritage Board (SRHB) is established to study, preserve, document, and legally safeguard Santali heritage, including customary law, self-governance systems, land traditions, faith practices, language, and cultural knowledge.

SRHB works as the knowledge backbone of WeSantal, supporting policy-making, cultural verification, education, and advocacy through evidence-based research. We function as a research and advisory body, not a political or religious institution.

Vision

To ensure that Santali history, Sarna Dharam, customary law, and self-governance traditions are accurately documented, protected from misrepresentation, and transmitted to future generations with academic, legal, and cultural integrity.

Mission

  • Build an authentic Santali knowledge repository
  • Counter misrepresentation and cultural erasure
  • Support customary governance recognition
  • Assist institutions with verified data

Ethical Commitment

SRHB is committed to the highest standards of ethical research and cultural preservation:

Truthful representation of Santali identity
Respect for oral traditions and elders
Non-commercial use of sacred knowledge
Community consent and cultural sensitivity

Who We Collaborate With

Community elders & traditional leaders
Educational and cultural institutions
Legal researchers and anthropologists
Government departments (culture, tribal affairs)

Institutional Authority

SRHB derives authority from recognized frameworks and customary systems:

WeSantal Governance Framework

Memorandum of Association & Byelaws, Unit Empowerment Framework

Customary Law Authority

Santali customary law under Manjhi Pargana System

Legal Recognition

Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA)

Important Disclaimer

SRHB does not replace government institutions or courts. All research outputs are cultural, academic, and advisory in nature, intended to support community self-understanding, policy dialogue, and heritage preservation. Our work complements and supports official governance structures while remaining grounded in customary traditions and community values.