Abstract
This research article explores the socio-economic status and challenges faced by tribal women in the Khunti district of Jharkhand, a part of the Chota Nagpur region. Using a holistic lens, the study investigates various aspects, such as education, employment and access to resources, to understand the issues of tribal women in this region. The research methodology involves a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches, including primary surveys as well as secondary data. Data collection techniques such as purposive sampling and structured questionnaires are employed to gather information from tribal women, community leaders and other stakeholders. For primary results, a sample of 350 tribal women is selected as the population of the study. The findings reveal several significant trends and patterns. Despite government initiatives aimed at promoting women’s empowerment and development, tribal women in Khunti continue to face multiple challenges, including limited access to education, low participation in the formal workforce and sociocultural barriers. Furthermore, the study highlights the intersectionality of gender with other axes of marginalisation, such as caste, class and ethnicity, which exacerbate the vulnerability of tribal women. Issues such as drought and lack of land ownership rights further compound their socio-economic disadvantages. The article concludes with recommendations for policy interventions and grassroots initiatives to address the systemic inequalities faced by tribal women in Khunti. At large, the research underscores the urgent need for a multidimensional approach to empower tribal women in Khunti and ensure their full participation in the socio-economic development of the region. By addressing the root causes of gender disparities and promoting gender-sensitive policies, stakeholders can contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society for tribal women.
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