Tribal Health

Africa has the world's largest tribal population density. These tribal people (also known as ethnic groups in some countries) have a strong traditional knowledge system. Eritrea, a small country in eastern Africa (sometimes known as the Horn of Africa), has a wealthy traditional knowledge system, particularly in terms of traditional healthcare practices. Rural and folk people living in the country's most distant areas, who are less exposed to contemporary healthcare facilities, are nevertheless passing down traditional healthcare knowledge and relying on it to treat various diseases by utilising their local ecosystem or resources. The people of Segheneyti have indeed very rich ethnomedical practices, especially herbal medicines. This research paper discusses the commonly and usually practised indigenous plants, like Ere'e (Aloe Camperi), Tbishnay (Cadaba farinosa), and Mezeguf (Meriandra bengalensis), and their way of preparation, the system of healing, place of origin, period of growth, and the different human ailments treated by the traditional medicines. Hence, the present research aims to document the wealth of indigenous knowledge and understand the corresponding drivers of this knowledge related to the utilisation, management and conservation of medicinal plants used to treat human ailments in Segheneyti. Due to the impact of globalisation, colonisation and other factors, this traditional knowledge system is changing rapidly, and the present generations are hardly interested in learning and continuing this rich traditional knowledge system. In this paper, an attempt has been made to document the traditional healthcare practices of a specific area of Segheneyti before they are washed away completely; otherwise, people of our next generation will say how shortsighted we are.

The paper attempts to study the role of the Mankirdia tribe's socio-structural determinants and its influence on their health-seeking behaviour. The extensive ethnographic method has been used to collect relevant and in-depth information from the study community. The paper conclusively finds that social structures have impacted the health-seeking behaviour of the community at large. It also finds the inter-connection among the larger structural elements of the tribal society, such as socio-political, and economic structures with health-seeking behaviour and the disease burden of the Mankirdia. It has suggested stringent policy measures for qualitatively improving the health status of Mankirdia tribe, and also existing social determinants or structural aspects needs to be strengthened. In addition, traditional healthcare practices need to be reinforced, especially an indigenous healer's knowledge with existing biomedical health services.

Background:-The Paniya tribal community, a marginalized group in Kerala (Wayanad), faces significant health disparities due to socioeconomic and cultural barriers. Tribal women in particular experience heightened vulnerability in accessing healthcare services, which is further compounded by limited infrastructure, inadequate awareness, and systemic inequalities. This study explored the structural determinants influencing healthcare access, reproductive health practices, and the prevalence of diseases among Paniya tribal women in Wayanad district, Kerala, South India. Methods:-A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1205 Paniya tribal women aged 18-90 years residing in WayanadDistrict of Kerala. A multistage random sampling technique was employed to select the participants. Data was collected using a pretested structured interview schedule, capturing socio-demographic characteristics, maternal and reproductive health details, availability of medical facilities in tribal colonies, prevalence of communicable and chronic diseases, and healthcare-seeking behavior. The data was analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentage were used to summarize the findings. Chi-square test was conducted to determine the associations between the key variables and healthcare access or utilization patterns. ANOVA, Linear Regression, Correlation and Coefficient values were calculated.Results:-The majority of women respondents with reproductive age (68%), among them 63.5% of the household depend on agriculture. Economic challenges were evident, as 45% of respondents lived below the poverty line. Only 49.4% of the respondents had access to proper sanitation facilities. Traditional health practices were used by 63.6% of the women, while 52% reported limited access to modern healthcare services. A significant positive correlation (p< 0.05) was found between the educational level and healthcare access, while educated women being more likely to seek professional healthcare system. Additionally, women with stable income sources (p< 0.01) had better health outcomes and were more likely to use healthcare facilities.

The human body is always prone to illness. So human beings whether civilised or tribal are bound to fall ill. So a tribal looks for healing in his vicinity. So this article attempts to look at the history of the Indian healing system, healing practices in tribal communities, components of tribal healing, types of healers in tribal communities and characteristics of tribal healing systems.

This study investigates the interconnected dimensions of housing, sanitation, landholding, and income among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the Latehar district of Jharkhand. Significant differences in access to key infrastructure are uncovered through the use of correlation and factor analysis. Although there is a significant mean ownership of property, the uneven distribution of land ownership underlines the existence of internal inequities. There is a high correlation between income and key structural variables such as pucca housing and the number of rooms, although sanitation and utility access continue to be severely lacking. The results of the factor analysis show that there are two fundamental dimensions: structural wellbeing and indoor utilities. This demonstrates that deprivation comprises both elements that are functional and those that are physical. In light of these findings, it is clear that development methods that are more integrated and responsive to context are required.

Tribal women in India experience a unique intersection of cultural, environmental, and socioeconomic factors that affect their health. Diseases are perceived in two major forms: supernatural and physiological. However, physiological ailments are often neglected unless they become chronic, while supernatural causes-such as evil spirits, the wrath of gods, and ancestral displeasure-are widely accepted and treated through spiritual or ritualistic means. These beliefs shape the healthcare-seeking behavior among tribal women, often delaying or replacing modern medical interventions. Taboos, poverty, gender inequality, and poor sanitation further exacerbate their health challenges. This study explores how deeply embedded cultural perceptions, superstition, and limited awareness contribute to a cycle of disease and neglect, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive health interventions.

Ethnomedicine is the medical system of the common man, employing plants and natural ingredients to cure a wide range of ailments. This article explores the concept of ethnomedicine, the causes of illness listed in ethnomedical accounts, various components of ethnomedicine, how ethnomedicine is practiced, and its uses and misuses.

In Kerala, 36 Scheduled Tribe communities live in various districts. Wayanad has 35 per cent of the state's tribal population. Out of these 36 tribal groups, Wayanad has eight major and three minor tribal groups. With the outbreak of COVID, the Government of India ordered a lockdown in March 2020 to protect people from the spread of COVID. In Kerala and Wayanad district, State Government initiated COVID prevention activities and awareness all over the state. To prevent COVID, the district administration started the corona tribal cell and coordinated COVID-19 activities. The main objective of the cell is to coordinate tribal health care issues related to COVID and non-COVID diseases during the lockdown period and also coordinate food support for the tribal people. District administration had fully engaged in protecting tribal health during the COVID outbreak by preparing an action plan and evaluation method. The objective of the study is to understand the tribal situation during COVID. It covers the changes in their livelihood, the ups and downs in their personal and social life, and the problems and challenges they faced during this process. For this study, the highest tribal concentrated Block of Wayanad district Kalpetta was selected. The state government and the district authority supported the tribal peoples during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce their grievances.

Improvement of water and sanitation conditions may reduce infant mortality, particularly in countries like India, where open defecation is highly prevalent. It can also provide dignity, privacy, and reduce the spread of diseases and shame. We found good evidence for construct validity, with support (P < 0.05) for 87% of hypothesised associations between SanQoL-5 and toilet quality characteristics and a strong relationship between toilet facilities and the dignity and privacy of life. In 120 tribal samples of Telangana, only 9% of instances showed evidence of meaningful differential item functioning. SanQoL-5 conformed to expectations in item response theory models. SanQoL-5 can be used in impact evaluation, monitoring, needs assessment, and benefit assessment.

Human–wildlife interactions in remote forested zones present a silent but potent threat of zoonotic spillovers. The Kathi Kund Forest region of Dumka, Jharkhand, rich in biodiversity and tribal settlements, forms an emerging interface where primate ecology and human activity increasingly intersect. From January to June 2025, field observations were conducted across mixed-type, densely forested habitats and adjacent tribal villages of Kathi Kund. The focus was on Hanuman langurs (Semnopithecus spp.), whose visibility was low yet behaviorally significant. Over 10 distinct sightings were recorded, primarily involving langurs foraging near agricultural margins or within village proximities. Encounters occurred both in deep jungle interiors and human settlements, especially in areas with fruiting trees or scattered food waste. Langur groups exhibited adaptive feeding patterns, occasionally venturing close to human dwellings despite being met with either hostility or indifference. The region showed signs of anthropogenic pressure, including crop farming, livestock grazing, and daily fuelwood extraction within the forest. These overlapping zones pose high-risk hotspots for pathogen transmission, particularly under unregulated conditions and limited public health surveillance. This preliminary study highlights a subtle but pressing risk of zoonotic spillover in tribal forest interfaces, exacerbated by changing animal behaviors and expanding human activities. There is an urgent need to incorporate such field-based micro-observations into India’s broader One Health preparedness strategy, especially in underrepresented regions like Santhal Pargana.

One Health is more than a framework of health—it is a philosophy of interconnectedness, recognising that human, animal, and environmental health are deeply intertwined. As a musicologist and sonic historiographer, I approach this not through data alone, but through rhythms of lived experience, echoes of memory, and the soundscapes of cultural continuity.
In both urban density and tribal isolation, health is not merely biomedical. It is emotional, cultural, sonic. It is about what we remember, what we forget, and what we pass on. The emerging issues of One Health must therefore be read as a cultural manuscript—where public health, indigenous voice, and environmental memory are interwoven.

Aim This study aimed to investigate menstrual practices, awareness, cultural beliefs, and taboos among rural adolescent girls in Bankura, West Bengal, with a special focus on the Kora tribal populations to understand their menstrual hygiene management challenges. Subject and methods A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 210 participants aged 10-19 years, who were selected through purposive sampling. Results The findings revealed significant gaps in knowledge and practices, with 74.8% of the respondents having no prior understanding of menstruation. Alarmingly, 15.8% perceived menstruation as stigmatizing, leading to restrictions in daily activities and dietary limitations. The study also highlighted the prevalence of homemade reusable pads (75.24%) and inadequate disposal practices (78.57%). Factors such as family income, parental education, and occupation significantly influenced menstrual hygiene practices. This study emphasizes the need for targeted education and intervention to improve menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Conclusion This study highlights the critical role of socioeconomic conditions and mothers' education levels in maintaining proper menstrual hygiene among school-going adolescent girls in rural Bankura, West Bengal. Interventions that address these factors are crucial for improving menstrual health and well-being. This study highlights the need for behavior modification programs and advocacy campaigns to address menstrual hygiene management gaps. Recommendations include improving access to water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure in schools and promoting genderneutral facilities to support girls' dignity and well-being.

This study was carried out at Lakhimpur district in Assam, India for assessing the trend of gastroenteritis and respiratory disease. During the study, a large numbers of acute respiratory infections/influenza like illness (ARI/ILI) cases were observed which were closely followed by acute diarrhoea and bacillary dysentery. Most of the ARI/ILI cases were reported from Bihpuria block public health centre (BPHC). Incidence of acute diarrhoea and bacillary dysentery cases were high at Boginodi area. Beside this, high incidence of enteric fever cases was also reported in Lakhimpur district. The overall incidence was higher from May to June.

Aging is a natural process of gradual degradation of physiological functions and structures in an organism over time. [1] Once considered a graceful transition, it has now become a significant issue of this century due to rapid global aging. According to the World Health Organization, the percentage of the global population aged over 60 years is projected to double from 12% to 22% by 2050. [2] The increase in the elderly population is due to changes in the birth rates, death rates, and demographic shifts over the past several decades. [3] The concept of the extended households has long been a cornerstone of many societies around the world. Usually, family members provide psychological, emotional, and economic support to the elderly as they need care and comfort to lead a healthy life, which further improves overall well-being and quality of life. India is known for its joint family structure, and it has been the socioeconomic support of the average Indian, but due to rapid urbanization, globalization, industrialization, and new lifestyles, there is a breakdown of joint families into nuclear families. [4] Shifts in the household configurations and modern changes in psychosocial dynamics and values frequently compel the elderly to either live alone or relocate from their homes to institutions or old-age homes. These are residential facilities with nursing and care facilities for older adults. Their number is rapidly increasing in recent times. Furthermore, women were more likely to reside in old-age homes than men. [5] Several factors contribute to more women living in old-age homes as they age. Few factors are the increased life expectancy of women, which results in a larger population of elderly women, and the fact that women often take on the care of family members, which can affect their ability to care for

"Introduction: According to the 2011 census report, the 0-6 child sex ratio decreased by 5 points registering 947 female children to 1000 male children in Dakshina Kannada district as compared to 2001 census. The skewed sex ratio can adversely affect society in various ways. The objectives were to determine the proportion of total pregnancy loss and different trimester pregnancy loss in rural Dakshina kannada and to identify the causes of 2nd trimester pregnancy loss.
Methodology: A community based prospective cohort study was conducted in Dakshina Kannada. Multi stage sampling was done with application of thumb rule. Data was entered in Microsoft Excel for data management and data analysis. Total number of pregnancies in each PHC was calculated monthly. Incidence of pregnancy loss for each trimester was calculated along with the proportion of loss in each trimester. Causes for second trimester pregnancy loss was determined using a validated questionnaire.
Results: A total of 5135 pregnancies during the study period in the sampled PHCs were followed up. 138 of the registered pregnancies underwent abortion in various trimester. The proportion of pregnancy loss was found to be 67%, 27.5% and 5% in the first, second and third trimester respectively. Incidence of second trimester pregnancy loss was found to be 0.7%. The major cause for second trimester pregnancy loss was found to be spontaneous.
Conclusion: The study concludes that the proportion of pregnancy loss and incidence of second trimester pregnancy loss in the district is within the normal range."

This research explores the educational policies designed to empower Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Ladakh, highlighting their significance in addressing historical disparities and fostering inclusive development. Despite Ladakh's cultural and ecological richness, its tribal communities face challenges stemming from geographic isolation, socioeconomic constraints, and inadequate infrastructure. Initiatives such as the Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship Schemes, and the National Fellowship for Higher Education have been pivotal in improving access to education and reducing dropout rates. Various scholarships and grassroots efforts, such as Village Education Committees (VECs), emphasize a comprehensive approach to educational development by bridging the divide and promoting community ownership. While these policies have made significant strides, challenges persist, including infrastructural deficits and cultural disconnects in mainstream education. The study concludes that sustained investment, culturally relevant curricula, and community-driven strategies are essential for the long-term educational advancement of STs in Ladakh. By ensuring education is accessible and responsive to tribal needs, these initiatives can empower Ladakh's tribal communities to thrive in a modern world while preserving their unique heritage.

COVID-19 or coronavirus disease 2019 is an infectious respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 which first emerged in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The virus quickly spread globally, leading to its declaration as a pandemic in March 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO). [1] India started its COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 16, 2021. The vaccination campaign was initially launched with two vaccines viz. Covishield and Covaxin. Covishield was developed by Oxford-AstraZeneca and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, and Covaxin was developed by Bharat Biotech. During the first phase of the vaccination drive, it was limited to healthcare and frontline workers. [2] In the second phase, vaccination was extended to individuals aged 60 years and those older than 45 years with underlying health issues, including healthcare and frontline workers who missed the initial phase. [3] Subsequently, India authorized Corbevax vaccination for children aged 12-14 years, developed by Hyderabad-based biological E against COVID-19. The vaccination drive for children started from March 16, 2022. [4] Corbevax vaccine is the India's first indigenously developed receptor binding domain (RBD) protein subunit vaccine against COVID-19. [5] It is a "second-generation" vaccine developed by Hotez and Maria Elena Bottazzi, later licensed to Biological E through Baylor College of Medicine Background: The first mass vaccination program for COVID-19 in India started on January 16, 2021. Initially, Covaxin and Covishield were used. Later, the Government of India has approved the usage of Corbevax, a Hyderabad-based biological E SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccine among 12-to 14-year age group from March 16, 2022. Corbevax vaccination was started in our hospital setting on March 19, 2022, for 12-to 14-year age group. Monitoring safety of any vaccine is of importance in a real-world setting. Limited study has been performed till date on side effects of Corbevax vaccine. Therefore, this study has been planned to assess the side effects after Corbevax vaccination among 12-to 14-year age group in a tertiary care hospital setting in Meerut district. To assess the side effects after Corbevax vaccination among 12-to 14-year age group in a tertiary care hospital setting in Meerut district. Tertiary care hospital setting and cross-sectional study design. Methods and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 270 study participants. Sample size was calculated assuming 50% prevalence of side effects after vaccination. Study subjects were selected by using simple random sampling among the beneficiaries of a tertiary care center. Data were collected using a pretested semistructured questionnaire. Proportions, Chi-square test. Results: Of all the participants, 41.48% had developed side-effects with pain at site of injection being the most commonly reported symptom (64.29%), and about half among those affected had resolved spontaneously. Conclusions: The vaccine causes only mild symptoms and is safe for use in children.

Animal bites are a significant concern of public health and mortality throughout the world, wherein India reports the highest number of deaths due to snakebites. The tribes of India (Scheduled Tribes or STs), constituting about 8.6% of India's population with a total of more than 104 million, mostly inhabit remote and inaccessible areas, with their subsistence and habitation being primarily forest-derived. This forest-based lifestyle exposes tribal populations to animal bites which are often lethal, and at the same time, it is the forest only on which tribes are dependent for getting their primary health care through the institution of traditional healer or ethnomedical practitioner who uses natural resources to cure various health issues. This system of knowledge and immense know-how of illness, diagnosis, treatment and utilization of natural resources (especially plants) in treatment of a myriad of ailments is transferred orally from one generation to another. The present work is an attempt to assemble information related to various plants and practices being used as traditional medicine for treating animal bites by the tribes of India. The review was undertaken by categorising research articles focusing on tribes residing in different geographical zones of India (seven zones for the current purpose) and their treatment pattern involving usage of plants for various types of animal bites. We find that present work fills-in the critical gap by providing detailed analysis of 276 plant species being used in 423 herbal preparations for curing animal bites by 81 tribes of India. It is found that tribal populations residing in Southern parts of the country report the usage of highest number of medicinal plants, whereas scarce data is available on the traditional medicinal practices for curing animal bites in tribes of the Island zone (i.e., in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands). This facet of tribal lifestyle, involving usage of natural resources around them for healthcare, is in a way exemplary of their survivability in tough forested conditions since time immemorial, and, thus should be treated as a success story in itself.

Infant and young child feeding practices (IYCFPs) are major determinants of malnutrition and have been emphasized by the World Health Organization and United Nations Children's Fund since 2003. [1] Optimal IYCFP is yet to be met in India. According to the Census 2011, scheduled tribes (STs) consist of 8.6% of the country's population and are the country's most nutritionally underprivileged society. [2] About 4.46% of the population in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu are STs. Paniyas are STs and are concentrated mainly in the Gudalur block. According to the 2011 Census, they are 7882 (3881 males and 4001 females) Paniyas. [3] According to National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5, in Nilgiris, the prevalence of timely initiation of breastfeeding (TIBF) had improved but the number of children who received a diverse diet had reduced. [4] A study found that Paniya tribal children in Kerala had a higher composite index of anthropometric failure. [5] Since there is less evidence about IYCFP in this tribal population in Nilgiris district, Tamil Nadu, this study aimed to determine the IYCFP and their association with various factors in this population from January 2022 to June 2022. Ethical clearance was obtained from Kasturba Medical College and Kasturba Hospital Institutional Ethics Committee-2 (IEC 2-7-2021). A complete enumeration of the eligible population was done. Two hundred and ninety-three mothers of children below two years of age were interviewed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. About 26.3% of the infants were below six months of age and 52.2% of them were males. About 95.2% of infants were born after nine months of gestation. About 98.6% of the mothers of these infants were married. About 55.3% belonged to joint families and lived in a household with five or fewer members. About 41.6% of the fathers and 44.4% of the mothers had completed middle school. About 95.9% of fathers and 18.8% Optimal infant and young child feeding practices (IYCFPs), despite being emphasized since 2003, are yet to be met in India. This study assessed these practices and their association with various factors among mothers of children aged 0-23 months in Paniya tribes in Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu. About 89.1% of the infants below six months were timely breastfed and 77.9% of them were exclusively breastfed, respectively. Complementary food was introduced to 25% of infants aged six to eight months. About 27.8% of them received a diverse diet. About 91.7% of them were fed egg and/or flesh food and 37% of them were fed vegetables and fruits. Illiterate mothers and mothers who had a vaginal delivery fed the infant optimally. The adherence to these practices was found to decrease gradually with an increase in the infant's age. The prevalence of IYCFP is higher in the study population compared to the corresponding indicators for the district according to the National Family Health Survey-5.

Though many initiatives and monetary benefits are incorporated under RNTCP/NTEP, many patients might incur some out‑of‑pocket
expenditure (OOP) related to diagnosis, treatment, and hospitalization. Such costs lead to further poverty and default. This study estimated
OOP costs. A cross‑sectional mixed method study was conducted in 2020. Data were collected from two selected UHCs (both public and
private sectors) from all eight administrative zones. A total of 278 newly registered drug‑sensitive tuberculosis patients at different stages of
treatment were enrolled, and 18 IDIs were done after obtaining the consent. Among 278, 231 (83%) were seeking the treatment from the public
sector and 47 (17%) from the private sector. The average direct, indirect, and total costs were Rs. 8812, Rs. 4825, and Rs. 13,637, respectively.
Extra food and supplements are the major field of expenditure for those enrolled in the public sector. Higher costs were incurred by the private
sector patients. Longer distances, a long waiting time, belief systems, and unavailability of facilities or drugs were the common reasons for
not visiting the public sector. IDI results also supported the cost heads. The majority of the expenses occurred at the private settings before
diagnosis. IDIs suggested to changes in the programmatic approach toward migrants, industrial workers, and women.
Keywords: Mixed method, out‑of‑pocket cost, tuberculosis

Background: Health-seeking behavior (HSB) is a critical aspect of public health that reflects how individuals respond to perceived health issues and the actions they take to seek care. In rural areas of India, including Gadag, Karnataka, understanding HSB is particularly vital due to the unique challenges faced by these communities, such as limited access to healthcare facilities, economic constraints, and cultural factors influencing health practices. Rural populations in India often experience significant disparities in healthcare access compared to their urban counterparts. Approximately 80% of healthcare resources are concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural communities underserved. This inequity compels many individuals to rely on informal healthcare providers, traditional medicine, or self-medication due to the perceived inadequacies of public healthcare facilities, which are often associated with long wait times, poor quality of care, and accessibility issues. The financial burden of illness is a significant concern for households in rural Karnataka. High out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare can lead to catastrophic health expenditures, pushing families into poverty. Many households may forego necessary medical treatment due to the cost, which can exacerbate health issues and lead to worse health outcomes. Research indicates that health-seeking behavior is not only a reflection of individual choices but is also deeply embedded in the community's socioeconomic context. Factors such as household income and the availability of insurance coverage play crucial roles in determining how and when individuals seek care. Objectives: To assess the healthseeking behaviour and the financial burden of illness among households in a rural community of Gadag. Materials and Methods: A Community-based Cross-sectional study was conducted in Hunashikatti village of Nargund, Gadag and Random sampling Technique was used to choose the study participants. A Semi structured questionnaire was used to obtain the data in the month of January 2024. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel and Results were expressed in frequency and percentages. Results: The study highlights a strong preference for allopathic medicine and government healthcare facilities among participants, likely due to affordability and accessibility. Despite a significant number of illnesses reported, most were mild and did not require hospitalization. Financially, few participants faced substantial costs, and while a majority had health insurance, utilization of schemes like Ayushman Bharat and ESI was nonexistent, suggesting potential barriers in awareness or access. Conclusion: The survey reveals that while there is a preference for allopathic treatment and government healthcare facilities among rural households in Gadag, traditional practices and home remedies still play a significant role in health-seeking behavior. Most illnesses reported were minor and did not lead to significant financial burdens, as hospitalization and high medical expenses were infrequent.

Background: Tribal groups, who frequently live in isolated and disadvantaged places, have unique patterns of health-seeking that are influenced by their traditional customs and cultural beliefs. One commonality is the dependence on traditional medicine and ceremonies as well as other indigenous healing practices. The community's interconnection is important since decisions are made collectively, which affects the choices people make while seeking health care. One important factor is access to healthcare services; impediments including remote location, inadequate infrastructure, and financial limitations might cause formal healthcare to be delayed or underutilized. Because tribal people are unfamiliar with mainstream healthcare institutions, they may be reluctant to seek medical attention. For this reason, healthcare personnel must be culturally competent. This study was conducted to assess the health seeking behaviour among Schedule tribes (Valmiki Nayaka) of Kappatagiri hills of Gadag District. Objectives: To explore the health-seeking behaviours among scheduled tribes of Kappatagiri Hill's. Methods: A field-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Kappathagiri village, Kadakol, Hosalli, and Murundi

ABSTRACT
Objectives: To Assess the Knowledge and
Practices about traditional medicine usage
Background: Traditional medicine denotes
among Rural Tribal’s in Gadag.
the indigenous medical systems and practices
Methods: A field-based cross-sectional study
that have evolved over extensive periods
was conducted in the Hirehandigola and
within particular cultural and communal
Chikkahandigola, Chikkoppa, and Hirekoppa
contexts. The understanding and perspectives
villages of Gadag Taluk. A purposive sampling
regarding traditional medicine are shaped by a
technique was adopted to choose the study
confluence of historical, cultural, and social
participants. A semi-structured, closed-ended
dimensions that inform the utilization and
questionnaire was used to obtain the data from
practices of traditional medicine. Historically,
June to July 2023. Data were entered into
traditional medicine has been instrumental in
Microsoft Excel, and results were expressed in
addressing the healthcare requirements of
frequency and percentages.
populations globally. Its foundations are
Results: Totally, 116 households were visited,
profoundly embedded in cultural convictions,
and participants were interviewed. Out of that,
practices, and the collective wisdom pertaining
almost all (98.73%) of them had good
to the application of medicinal flora, fauna, and
knowledge, and the majority (70.7%) used
diverse therapeutic modalities. Traditional
Ayurveda medicines. 11.2% used home
medicine frequently employs holistic
remedies to seek treatment. 15.5% of
methodologies, encompassing the physical,
respondents are influenced by their ancestors
psychological, and spiritual dimensions of
to use TM, and 43.1% report that TM has no
health and wellness. This research endeavor
side effects.
was undertaken to evaluate the understanding
Conclusion: The majority of the respondents
and application of traditional medicine among
have good knowledge about traditional
the Scheduled tribes (Valmiki Nayaka and
medicine usage. All will prepare traditional
Talawar) residing in the Gadag taluk.
medicine for their health and well-being.

Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India, constituting 8.6% of the total population, remain the most marginalized and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the socioeconomic status of STs, utilizing secondary data from the Census of India, National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), National Family Health Survey (NFHS), and other relevant sources. Key indicators such as demographics, health, housing, sanitation, land ownership, and employment are examined to provide the significant disparities within and between STs and other social categories, including Scheduled Castes. Even though constitutional benefits and targeted welfare programs, access to healthcare, education, adequate housing, and agricultural resources remain lacking for many STs, disseminating their marginalisation. Notable geographical differences aggravate these disparities, emphasizing the need for localized policy interventions. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to raise inclusive development, emphasizing improvements in infrastructure, education, and access to government schemes to bridge the gap between STs and the broader population.

A sound health is a pre-requisite element for human development. Though health is considered having biological backdrops and ramifications, but it is necessarily a bio-psycho-social concept engulfing and impacting the whole of human actions. With life style changes, the earliest concept of complete biological, mental and social wellbeing is challenged and spiritual health is added along with the coping mechanism to address the health issues. In this context, tribal health is an area which is historically neglected. From literature surveys, it can be found that throughout the length and breadth of the state, and country, tribal health infrastructure and performances have been neglected, in both social infrastructure as well as physical infrastructure. But time has come to rectify the historical injustice being imparted to sections of society in providing all necessary healthcare benefits. This paper using secondary sources has found that tribal in Odisha has no basic infrastructure, mainly in some remote inaccessible areas. So citing authentic data from govt. reports, the paper suggests that a handful of measures can do the needful to the lot of the tribal such as relaxing the population-healthcare ratio, mobile health, community health officers etc. it also recommends further research on this area.

Background: Tribal groups, who frequently live in isolated and disadvantaged places, have unique patterns of health-seeking that are influenced by their traditional customs and cultural beliefs. One commonality is the dependence on traditional medicine and ceremonies as well as other indigenous healing practices. The community's interconnection is important since decisions are made collectively, which affects the choices people make while seeking health care. One important factor is access to healthcare services; impediments including remote location, inadequate infrastructure, and financial limitations might cause formal healthcare to be delayed or underutilized. Because tribal people are unfamiliar with mainstream healthcare institutions, they may be reluctant to seek medical attention. For this reason, healthcare personnel must be culturally competent. This study was conducted to assess the health seeking behaviour among Schedule tribes (Valmiki Nayaka) of Kappatagiri hills of Gadag District. Objectives: To explore the health-seeking behaviours among scheduled tribes of Kappatagiri Hill's. Methods: A field-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Kappathagiri village, Kadakol, Hosalli, and Murundi

Background: Despite significant advancements in the medical field, the health status of India's tribal population remains a concern, which was equally prevalent 25 years ago. Tribes still face numerous health issues, including malaria, infections, sickle-cell anemia, and nutritional deficiencies. Hence, this study tried to examine the morbidity status and treatment seeking behaviors of tribal communities.
Method and Material: A primary survey was conducted among 300 rural tribal households in Bijadandi block in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh. The purposive sampling was applied to select the household for collecting information on morbidity treatment history, place of treatment and reasons for not treating. For this study a structured interview schedule was used in the studied field. The primary survey was conducted from August to November 2019.
Result: The study found that nearly three-fifths had suffered from morbidities within the last 365 days prior to the survey which is higher experienced by 60 & above age groups, female, below primary schooling, farmer and housewife, and or widowed. Fever and cold cough prevalence were higher among tribes. Around 90 percent have received treatment during ill/sick. However, nearly two-fifths had received treatment from public healthcare centers while about three-fifth had received from private healthcare centers. Healthcare provider’s behavior was found to be not suitable for the tribes, with discriminatory practices reported at public healthcare centers. This has led to a lack of desire for public healthcare services utilization, which is a significant obstacle affecting government healthcare services utilization in tribal areas. The study also highlighted the emergence of intermediate diseases, such as paralysis, resulting from smoking and alcohol consumption.
Conclusion: In general, the research indicates the importance of directing attention towards the health and socio-economic welfare, along with interpersonal interactions between healthcare service providers and tribal or vulnerable communities. Currently, tribes are expressing worries regarding their healthcare and medical care. Consequently, the central emphasis should align with the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) principle of 'leaving no one behind,' placing a primary focus on enhancing the health and socio-economic well-being of both tribes and other susceptible groups.

The study was aimed to assess the pre and post training knowledge of tuberculosis and its management amongst newly admitted postgraduate students in medical college and hospital. India accounts for nearly one fifth of global burden of tuberculosis. Every year approximately 1.8 million persons develop tuberculosis. Postgraduate students are many times the first contact of patients in teaching as well as secondary and tertiary care hospitals. Considering this fact, the current study was conducted to assess pre and post training knowledge about basic facts of tuberculosis and its management practices. All newly admitted postgraduate students attended RNTCP training and completed pretest and posttest questionnaires. Each completed questionnaire was assigned marking system. The data was analyzed using paired t test. Significant improvement in knowledge was found after RNTCP Training (Pretest mean marks: 10.25, posttest mean marks: 14.36, t=8.43, df=35, p=0). The education of postgraduate students on guidelines for detection and early management of TB is crucial for further improvement in national tuberculosis control strategies. RNTCP training should be a part of regular activity of all medical colleges and hospitals.

India&#39;s economic crisis, rising unemployment, poor wages, and hazardous working conditions have gained before Covid-19. Still, on the latter side, the pandemic situation has exacerbated the living milieu of the migrants to terrible due to lockdown. Due to the pervasive problem and protection and precaution from this virus, the government asked the common masses and acted upon every means to maintain &#39;Social Distancing&#39;, but it has socially distanced itself from the poor and the marginalized sections of the country. Vulnerability to these present circumstances these casual unprotected workers include in millions, lack of social protection, fear of layoffs, stoppage of income, no hope of restoration or rehabilitation, infinite situation. Suddenly, the problem made the poor migrants scattered and terrified without clues where to move as going back will bring emptiness. As the indigenous people at present India&#39;s colossal migrant population, Tribals are sufferers to all ...

The majority of tribal community live in hilly and
rural hamlets areas, desert areas, or forested where
illiteracy, malnutrition, challenging physical
circumstances, poor access to potable water and a
lack of personal hygiene and sanitation make them
more vulnerable to sickness. Charaka, a notable
ayurvedic physician, said, "Health is vital for man's
ethical, creative, material, and spiritual
advancement." (Lal, B. (2021). “A person's whole
physical, mental, and social well-being, not only the
absence of illness or infirmity,” says the dictionary.
According to WHO (1948).Tribal people had more
severe and long-lasting diseases, with women and
children being the most susceptible. The major
concept of healthcare is to offer comprehensive
health services, to safeguard everyone's physical,
social, and mental health, to reduce mortality rates, to
enhance man's life expectancy, and to promote social
development in a balanced manner. The appropriate
administration and management of health personnel
have an impact on the growth of healthcare
institutions. Adequacy, availability, accessibility,
affordability, and feasibility are all qualities of an
effective healthcare system.

The present clinical case report reveals an outbreak of severe scabies infestation along with tuberculosis among young children of Sahariya tribe of Central India. More predominately young children of the tribe were found severely infested with scabies. Some of them were also registered TB patients. Appropriate clinical tests were performed to identify the actual cause of outbreak and hematological analysis of blood sample was carried out to diagnose the clinical disease. ESR, lymphocyte counts and serum LDH content was found significantly (p<.05) elevated in affected children and adult subjects, indicating the pathogenic infection (tuberculosis) and infestation (scabies) induced pathology.Weak immunity resulting from malnutrition, poor hygiene and lack of proper Medicare, in these rural and remote areas are the main predisposing factors till today. There is a need of regular follow up of local hygiene and medical facilities available in these areas followed by appropriate and timely treatment to them.

Hypertension is an important worldwide public-health challenge and it is accountable for 7% of Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) loss, and by the end of 2025 about 29% of world’s population is likely to suffer from hypertension. Tribal population constitute about 8% of the total population in India. Among tribal population, study on hypertension will provide an interesting outcome because studies across the world have shown a lower prevalence. The objective of the study was to estimate the pooled prevalence of hypertension among adult tribal populations in India and also to analyse the possible sources of heterogeneity in the estimate. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus, Embase MEDLINE, and journals for articles published between 2001 and 2020. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis done on hypertension among tribal populations of India.  Three authors independently reviewed the articles, performed quality assessment and data was extracted. Pooled estimate of hypertension was calculated. Subgroup analyses was performed. A total of 26 articles with a total number of subjects of 75,543 were included in the study. The pooled estimate of hypertension prevalence was 25.1% (95% CI: 24.7, 25.4). There was significant heterogeneity among the studies (I2 = 98.2 and Q = 1289.37). It is essential to conduct larger cohort studies and randomised controlled trials to determine the causes of the increased prevalence of hypertension among the tribal population. The prevalence of hypertension among tribal population are essential as a source of primary information and for rational planning of health services and will help public-health policy-makers to assign sufficient priority and resources for its management and prevention.

This paper critically examines the educational realities faced by children from Scheduled Tribe communities in Bihar, who have historically been excluded from formal education due to spatial isolation, cultural differences, and marginalization by dominant society. The issues are complex and multifaceted, and this paper provides a nuanced analysis of the challenges, without claiming to be exhaustive. The study emphasizes the need for contextualized, differentiated, and sensitive approaches to understanding the problems, locating them within broader socio-economic and political processes. Furthermore, it critically examines current educational reforms and adjustments, aiming to identify policy and programmatic interventions that can improve the educational outcomes of Scheduled Tribes in Bihar. By exploring educational developments of acceptable quality, this research seeks to inform policy and programmatic applications that can address the unique challenges faced by these communities.

Basic facilities such as food, water, shelter, sanitation, health and employment are the fundamental elements required for survival of human beings. Although national and state governments incur 85 per cent of the expenditure on these services, 2010 data from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) estimated that 37.2% of Indians live below the country’s national poverty line. Poverty is an undesirable state which deprives part of the human population their ability to fulfill basic needs. Through poverty alleviation policies and programmes every nation strives to improve the quality of life of the poor and the marginalized in the society. In this context, to determine the effect of poverty alleviation interventions, accessibility and utilization of these facilities by these sections become significant.

Insects are important bioresources as they supply numerous tangible and intangible benefits to humans. Day-to-day livings of many communities in the world are associated with insects as food, medicine, social beliefs, livelihood and other aspects. Many communities from immemorial time traditionally practice insects as food (entomophagy). People consumed insects for delicacy and nutritional purposes. However, some entomophagy species have medicinal value and many traditional healers used them for the treatment of various health ailments like sore throat, mouth ulcers, jaundice, body ache, wound healing, etc. In India, such traditions are widely practised in Northeast India more than other states of India. The focus of this research is on the traditional knowledge of entomophagy species having medicinal properties and social beliefs that are practised by the Tangkhul, Mao and Poumai ethnic community of Manipur, northeast region of India. Review literature was conducted through publish...

The Batanes group of islands in the northern Philip pine archipelago presents some of the most diversed flora in the country. This study is an assessment a nd inventory including ethnobotanical and alkaloid field survey of medicinal plants in Batanes, partic ularly in the islands of Batan and Sabtang. Sixty -eight plants were randomly collected from 6 vegetation ar eas. Plants photographs and voucher specimens were identified for species richness, diversity and alkaloid contents. Twenty-one respondents were as ked using a structured questionnaire about the self-ane cdotal uses of the 68 plants under 9 disease categories. The 68 plant collections represented 3 5 families dominated by Rubiaceae, Rutaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Fabaceae, Malvaceae and Moraceae. Endemic, introduced, ornamental, invasive and economically-important plants were identified. In m ost cases, there is a good correlation between spec ies richness and diversity indices. Among the plants su rveyed for anecdotal uses, M...

The TSP approach covers the tribal development intervention for the tribal population in Orissa. The universe of the study constitutes 21 Integrated Tribal Development Agencies (ITDAs), 17 Micro Projects, 46 Modified Area Development Approach (MADA) Pockets and 14 Cluster Approach Pockets (CAPs) in Orissa. The sample of the study comprises 20 villages, two from each of the selected tribal development projects comprising 3 ITDAs, 2 Micro Projects, 4 MADA Pockets and one Cluster Approach Pocket. The 20 sample villages have 1,766 households with 7,923 population. Among them are 1,401 Scheduled Tribe households with 6,398 persons constituting 80.75 per cent of the total population. Besides, the study incorporates the tribal development interventions through special programmes, like Revised Long Term Action Plan (RLTAP) in erstwhile Kalahandi, Bolangir and Koraput (KBK) districts, Orissa Tribal Empowerment and Livelihood Programme (OTELP), Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation of Orissa Ltd. (TDCCOL), and Dispersed Tribal Development Programme (DTDP). Data were collected from primary sources by using tools, like Village Schedule, Household Schedule, Personnel Schedule, Project Schedule, Focus E xecutive Summar y xvi Group Discussion guides and also from secondary sources, such as library, official reports, proceedings and documents of Scheduled Tribes & Scheduled Castes Development Department and different Tribal development Agencies. It is revealed from the study that the mainstay of the economy of tribal people of the sample villages is agro-forestry which is supplemented by horticultural plantation and rearing of domestic birds and animals. In every 100 ST people, more than 80 are cultivators and agricultural labourers. Most of the ST households (90%) carry on collection of minor forest produce and rear domestic animals. About 48.43% of the total PTG households and 4.46% of tribal households in the ITDAs pursue shifting cultivation. Shifting cultivation is not of any concern for the tribals in MADA and Cluster Approach Pocket. Landlessness among the ST households is more in CAP (58.08%), followed by MADAs (30.87 %) and ITDAs (24.70%) and it is less in Micro Projects (7.09 %). The tribal employment opportunity in other sectors is quite insignificant. Tribal labour force is unorganized. Arable irrigated land of the tribals comes to 33%. Out of total land, 5.76% of land is cultivable waste. Scanty irrigation facilities and major chunk of unutilized land leads to seasonal migration of tribal labour. Majority of ST people (88.59%) are marginal farmers. About 35% of STs have lost their lands for different development, mines and industrial projects of Orissa, which pushed the tribals into impoverishment, like, joblessness, landlessness, homelessness, and loss of access to common property resources, marginalization, increased morbidity, social disarticulation and lack of employment opportunities. The R&R Policies formulated by different corporate houses have not provided any special provisions for the displaced tribals. But the Orissa R&R Policy, 2006 to some extent tries to address the critical livelihood issues of the affected persons of development projects. The extremist activities spread in the inaccessible hilly and dense forest and tribal areas have checked the progress of implementation of tribal development programmes. The Government of Orissa is planning to empower the tribals in these remote areas through developmental programmes. Secondary source data reveals that there are altogether 2492 inhabited villages in 3 ITDAs, 2 Micro Projects, 4 MADAs and 1 Cluster Approach Pocket. Out of total 2492 inhabited villages, 166 (6.66%) villages lack road communication facilities, 509 (20.43%) villages have no Anganwadi Centre, 65 (2.61%) villages are not served by Primary School Hostel and 140 (5.62%) villages have no schooling facility within 1 km. Out of 233 GPs in the study areas, there is no High School in 7(3%) GPs. It does not confirm to the Government principle of one High School in every GP in TSP areas. Primary Schools/ME Schools seem over crowded with admission of more number of students than the approved capacity. Besides, 6 (0.24%) villages are not provided with drinking water facilities whereas 11 (0.44%) villages have no medical facilities within 15 kms, which shows inadequacy of health care services in the Project area. In all 15 (0.60%) villages have no Post Office facility within 5 kms. Some of the people seem to be unaware of the provision of NREGS. Adult literacy programme has little impact on the people. Various developmental activities through NGOs limited to some areas are yet to reach the PTG people in inaccessible areas. xvii Development intervention extended by the Tribal Development Agencies are mainly on irrigation, agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, household industries, small business, formation of SHGs, vocational training, provision of fire proof roof, communication, creation of education infrastructure, power supply, drinking water supply and awareness training. The allotment to Agencies during 5 years from 2002-03 to 2006-07/2003-04 to 2007-08 from SCA to TSP and Under Article 275(I)/CSS stood at Rs.4,687.20 lakh and expenditure was Rs. 4,216.18 (89.95%) showing a gap of Rs.471.02 (10.05%) lakh not spent on development intervention in the area. Most of the villagers are not aware of the constitutional safeguards and legislative provisions and guarantees meant for the interest of the STs of Fifth Schedule areas of the State. The tribal awareness campaign on the constitutional safeguards and protective legislations seem unimpressive. Due to uninterrupted efforts of Ministry of Tribal Affairs, GOI and ST&SC Development Department, GOO, the tribal access to social opportunities and amenities for their overall development has been facilitated in Conservation-cum-Development (CCD) Plan for 13 PTGs in 17 Micro Projects. As per the CCD plan as many as 148 projects were completed during 2007-08 with an expenditure of Rs.341.22 lakh, covering 3408 PTG families. Likewise, in the same year in MADA pockets, a sum of Rs.456.95 lakh was spent for 4933 families under 242 projects and in Cluster Pockets Rs.41.38 lakh was spent for 440 families under 31 projects. Further under educational development programme, Educational Complex in 17 Micro Project areas, Ekalavya Model Residential Schools (10 nos.), Higher Secondary Schools (08 nos.), High Schools (155 nos.), Girls' High Schools (91 nos), Ashram Schools (112nos.), Secondary Teachers' Training School (2 nos.), Residential Sevashram (1031nos.), Primary School Hostels (ITDA blocks) (1548 nos.), Primary School Hostels (ST Girls-KBK) (400 nos.), ST Girls Hostels (1003 nos.), Distribution of bicycles to ST girls students of Scheduled Areas, Teaching in 10 Tribal Language in Primary schools, Computer Education Programme, Award of Post-Matric Scholarship and Book Bank have been set up and organized. Executive Summary xviii which lies in the southwest Orissa comprises the hilly districts, like old Koraput and Kalahandi districts and portions of Bolangir district which are characterized by high incidence of poverty. The special Programmes under RLTAP for KBK districts covers schemes, like Mobile Health Units, Vocational Training, Employment Opportunities, Strengthening of Educational Infrastructure, Preventing Drop-outs, and Infrastructure Development for Sports and Games, Housing and Drinking Water Facilities, etc. for the development of tribals and their areas. The ITDA oversees smooth management and implementation of different development programmes and their execution through different Line Departments/District Level Agencies and their monitoring. The PLC/Governing Body of the ITDA which is the supervisory body of the development programmes is required to convene once in every quarter of the year to approve 5-year plan and annual plan, decide implementation strategy, review and monitor the different development programmes. During the period from 2003-04 to 2007-08, PLC/ Governing Body of different TD Agencies convened on an average once in a year indicating the inadequate planning and monitoring mechanism in the actual ground situation. The major sources for Sub-Plan outlay for family oriented schemes; infrastructure development schemes; and human resource development schemes include State allocation, Sectoral allocation from Central Ministries, Special Central allocation, and Institutional finance. Allocation of State Plan constitutes the basic outlay, whereas other sources are additive and supplemental. Besides, the grants under Article-275 (1) of the Constitution are also utilized under different heads, such as resettlement of tribal shifting cultivators, development of forest villages, treatment of tribals suffering from special diseases, Specific Health Schemes, enrolment subsidy for tribal membership in LAMPS, Residential Schools for Primitive Tribes etc. The funds for the PTG development programmes usually flow from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Govt. of India on 100% subsidy basis. Besides, the Central Govt. and State Government are supposed to allocate funds from Central Sector/Centrally Sponsored Schemes and State Plan Schemes for the PTGs development. The Planning and Coordination Department, Government of Orissa, coordinates the planning of different departments. The S.T & S.C. Development Department, Orissa is the nodal department for administration, management, and control of tribal development and welfare activities with full autonomy in the selection of schemes, allocation of funds and diversion of funds from one scheme to another within the overall allocation relating to the SCSP and TSP Development of the State. Currently, two departments, namely (i) Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste Development Department and (ii) Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department are functioning under the guidance and supervision...

Background: During the COVID pandemic, migrant workers had experienced harsh livelihood and socio-economic crises which amplified their challenges of life and significantly affected their mental health. However, there is a lack of in-depth evidence on how the mental trauma and shock of the loss of job and livelihood crisis affected men and women migrant workers differently. This study aimed to explore the impact of the COVID pandemic and lockdown on migrant workers who had faced psycho-social and financial challenges during the pandemic and lockdown and the effects of these challenges on their health. Methods: A formative research method comprising of iterative approach was used by conducting in-depth interviews of men and women migrant workers residing in randomly selected 2 blocks of a slum called Madanpur Khadar JJ Colony of Delhi, India. The respondents were chosen using a respondent driven purposive sampling depending on those who had faced severe loss during the pandemic. The ...

Introduction: This article offers insights into the process of selecting representative study sites and participants in a longitudinal study in Nepal. As part of the research design process, the selection of representative areas in a large-scale study requires both intellectual and practical considerations. Methods: We briefly introduce our study into the impact of federalization on Nepal's health system before outlining the criteria considered for the identification of fieldwork sites and the most appropriate study participants for the qualitative interviews and participatory components of this research. Findings: The selected areas are presented with an overview of the areas selected and their justification. The study sites and participants should consider a broader coverage with diverse participants' backgrounds. Several factors can influence the identification and recruitment of the right participants, including the use of appropriate gatekeepers, gaining access to recruit participants, logistical challenges, and participant follow-up. Conclusion: We conclude that longitudinal qualitative research requires a carefully selected diverse set of study sites and participants to assess the complexities and dynamics of the health system and service provision to ensure that longitudinal research is representative and effective in addressing the research question(s) being investigated.

The Baiga tribes considered as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), reside in the Maikal hills of central India and are rich in their culture and traditional knowledge. The Vaidya and Guniya are two types of health healers found among the Baiga tribal community. It is found that they have good skills in identifying the mediational plants. The present paper aims to explore the traditional healing system, and tribal indigenous knowledge system and identifies the ethno-medicine used by the Baiga tribes of the Maikal hills of central India. The three-pronged research methodology was adopted in the present study. (i) Desk review, (ii) FGDs, and (iii) personal interactions. Due to development intervention, many medicinal plants disappeared, and there is a need to document and encourage the new generation to continue medicinal practices. Their livelihood opportunities could be increased, and hidden treasury will be helpful to mainstream society for the protection of health care.

The population of tribal people has been recognized as the country's original inhabitants. They have created cultural patterns that are hospitable to their physical and social circumstances by living a modest life based on the natural environment for ages. Development is typically understood in economic jargon to refer to a progression towards higher consumption levels and a higher quality of life. All disparities should vanish because social justice-focused growth has been recognized as the nation's ultimate ideal stage. Tribal societies are frequently associated with poverty in the literature on economic development. Whenever discussing circumstances when even the most basic requirements for physical endurance are not met, poverty is a completely different idea and solely has an impact on tribal perspectives. The advancement process's foundation in individual achievement and competition is its first notable feature. The entire tribal concept as it exists today is merely passing through a minor stage. In the process of transition, this phase may be typical. There is no adequate tool for the tribal sub-plan approach to capture this tendency. The socioeconomic circumstances of indigenous tribes vary greatly even within the same region and are quite difficult across the nation. Tribal development cannot be achieved by creating a position formula due to the frequently changing circumstances. One of the errors made in the early attempts to expand tribal tribes in India was this. In this case, this research focuses primarily on the economic dimensions of the tribal development process in Tamil Nadu. This makes the paper's title appropriate, socially significant, and necessary.

Introduction: Various communities settled in Andaman and Nicobar Islands along with native tribes still possess a rich treasure of traditional medicinal knowledge. It is very necessary to document their indigenous knowledge of health and healthcare practices before they become used to the modern medicine and forgot to use native plants in their day-today practice. In the traditional system of medicine, plant-based medications are mostly used since time immemorial. This knowledge of the drug, drug preparations either from single or combination of numerous plants, i.e., poly herbalism orally descended from generations to generations uninterruptedly. Objectives: Documentation of the polyherbal (compound) formulations practiced by the native of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Materials and methods: The team of Regional Research Centre of Ayurveda, Port Blair conducted 23 periodical surveys visiting 75 different forest beats of Andaman and Nicobar Islands during 2013 to 2016, and local traditional folk healers were also interviewed as per the structured questionnaire based on ethno-medicinal survey protocol. Observations: Sixty-nine folklore claims related to compound formulation was registered during surveys; out of which maximum, i.e., 12 claims were for treatment of fever (Jwara) and 7 for pain in the abdomen (Udarashoola). The plants Annona squamosa L. and Senna occidentalis (L.) Link. Syn. Cassia occidentalis Link. were used as an ingredient in 12 formulations to cure a maximum number of ailments. Fresh leaves were mostly used in preparing the compound formulation (92.42%), and medicines were mostly used in the form of Swarasa (39.13%) and followed by Kalka (30.43%). Conclusion: Native folk healers of Andaman and Nicobar Islands are using a wide variety of Ayurvedic compound formulation so further well planned pharmacological, toxicological and clinical studies required to confirm the efficacy of these folklore claims to develop new formulations.

Education and health are commonly devolved functions to sub-national governments, even in nations which have a unitary rather than a federal structure. Education and health are the two major factors which are influencing more to the economic development. So without improvement of these two factors economic development impossible and now a day India vs. Odisha under privilege Schedule Tribe population are deprive more in all aspect. What are the main reasons behind their backwardness in health and education? On behalf of illiteracy health and nutritional consciousness among these STs Communities are low. Through various programme government can eradicate diseases. Educated mothers are more conscious about child health. This study is based on both primary data from a rural village and secondary data from various report and research review of research. Main objective of this paper is, to determine impact of education on health status among primitive tribal people in tribal areas and rural areas. It also analyses the correlation relationship between health, education and poverty.

Introduction. Rapid life style changes are leading causes of increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks among people in India today. Despite the country’s high ethnic diversity, studies related to physiology and such health risks, particularly among the tribal populations have been limited. Materials and methods. The present cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,434 tribal participants belonging to six tribes from the two states of West Bengal and Odisha. The aim of the present study was to understand the relationship of age (in years), sex and raised Body Mass Index (BMI) (kg/m2) with selected CVD risk factors among the six tribes of India. Results. In the males, raised BMI (kg/m2) was found to influence CVD risks by significantly increasing the blood glucose among the age group (in years) of &lt;40 years (Odds Ratio (OR)= 6.396, p≤ 0.05); isolated systolic hypertension among the age groups &lt;40 years (OR= 2.387, p≤ 0.01) and ≥40 years (OR= 2.123, p≤ 0.05); isolated diast...

Covid 19 pandemic has not only led to disruption of public health but it has also resulted in massive economic shock across the world due to business interruptions and shutdowns form social distancing measures. Different communities are facing varying consequences but daily wage workers and farmers remain the most effected groups. This has also led to risk of unemployment, which has worst impact on livelihood of common man. According to WHO, nearly half of the world's 3.3 billion global workforce are at risk of losing their live hood. These economic crises have shown effect on the psychological and social well being of individual. The research agenda includes accessing the current socioeconomic status of general public. Their nancial stability in global crisis and whether they can recover their loss.The current article will be carried out to assess the socioeconomic status of general public and their nancial stability or loss incurred with pandemic.

Oecophylla smaragdina are being used for various medicinal and nutritive purposes by local tribes in Odisha, India and worldwide. It is locally known as Kurkuti. The study attempts to document medicinal and economic values along with relationship with medicinal plants. Findings revealed that O. smaragdina has sound food & medicinal values. About 24 host medicinal plant species are noted down. The chapter highlights the importance of medicinal plants in the existence of O. smaragdina.

Platanthera contigua, P. uniformis, P. roseotincta and P. urceolata are all characterised by short amphora-like spurs and were previously (with the exception of P. roseotincta) often separated as the genus Diphylax. P. urceolata and P. uniformis are similar, whereas P. contigua and P. roseotincta are morphologically distinct. The latter three species were not known from India until recently. We here report them from alpine meadows of Upper West Siang and Upper Dibang areas of Arunachal Pradesh, India. The four species are not each others closest relatives, according to molecular trees. Their NW Yunnan/N Myanmar/SE Tibet/E Arunachal Pradesh distribution is paralleled by several other species (see Lidén & Adhikari, this volume).

Health is a big challenge for whole India, whether the tribal or other people. It is a keynote affair in all tribal society. Good health for tribal people has a social, economic and spiritual dimension. Tribal communities are not only economically backward but also have worth health indicators and deprived of modern health care communicable and non-communicable diseases and nutritional deficiency is major health problems in these populations. For the tribals, the concept of diseases and its treatment are diverse as per their cultural values. To the tribals, health, diseases and its treatment, death etc. everything&quot;s has different meaning but it is interesting noticed that each and every tribal community has belief on both benevolent and malevolent supernatural powers who are responsible for these all. The present paper is an endeavor to explore the repository of indigenous medicines used by the Hill Kharia of a particular village of, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, India. The stud...