The Kerala Institute for Research, Training and Development Studies of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (KIRTADS) is a government institute located at Chevayur in Kozhikode district, Kerala. Established in 1972, it focuses on the development of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes by conducting research and studies to understand and address their challenges.

Training, Research and Development
KIRTADS, through the departments of Training, Research, and Development Studies aims to preserve tribal history, educate students, and recommend policies for their upliftment. The institute houses a reference library with books on anthropology and sociology, an Ethnological Museum, and a Documentation Centre for tribal art forms known as Adikalakendram. Despite some concerns about research data availability, KIRTADS remains dedicated to enhancing the socio-economic status and cultural identity of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Kerala through its initiatives.

The Ethnological Museum
The Ethnological Museum, established in 1973, holds a vast collection of artifacts, including costumes, jewelry, household items, musical instruments, and agricultural tools used by Kerala's tribal communities. It also displays ethnographic features and cultural backgrounds of each tribe. The museum plays a crucial role in preserving and interpreting tribal culture for researchers and the public. 

Tribal traditions, art forms and culture
Adikalakendram focuses on reviving traditional tribal art forms like wood carving, mat weaving, basketry, pottery, and performing arts. These art forms are documented and researched to ensure their preservation and to revive old and indigenous art forms. KIRTADS organizes cultural festivals and events like 'Nera Thinka' to celebrate tribal medicine, food, arts, and literature. Cultural programmes such as Karimpala dance, Mangalam Kali, Paliya dance, Irula dance, and Chonankali are performed in the evenings.