Because of its numerous geographical features, climatic conditions are also widely diversified on both a seasonal and regional basis, ranging from tropical to temperate extremes. The 11 million Chhattisgarhi are located mainly in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Orissa. Their language is a member of the Indo-Aryan language family. Despite the significant size of their population, little is known about their specific way of life. Many are farmers who barely grow enough to survive.
Farms are extremely small in size and are often very fragmented.
The raising of livestock, particularly horned cattle, buffalo, horses, and mules, is a central feature of the economy. Because of Hindu influence, however, these animals are used almost exclusively as beasts of burden rather than sources of meat. Indian culture is primarily Hindu-oriented. Castes may be defined by occupation or by kinship and lineage, but there are exceptions. Nevertheless, caste is so fundamental to the social organization of India that it prevails in all parts, except some of the tribal populations.