It was established by the Russian Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North in 2009. The medal is a public award, awarded to citizens of the Russian Federation who have made a great contribution to the development of the movement of Indigenous small-numbered Peoples of the North, Siberia and the Far East, the protection of their rights, their native habitat, traditional way of life, economy and crafts, as well as who have contributed to the original socio-economic and cultural development, the growth of national identity and the improvement of the standard of living of Indigenous Peoples.

When awarding the Medal, any activity of the candidate is evaluated in terms of his attitude to people and personal life position. The application for the award is sent by the organizations of Indigenous Peoples to the Staff of the RAIPON. The decision on the award is made by the Coordinating Council of the RAIPON. If the application for the award is received during the inter-sessional period of the Coordinating Council and the convening of the Coordinating Council for the adoption of the relevant decision is considered impractical, it is possible to conduct an electronic vote. The medal is a badge made of solid material and is awarded together with a license plate.