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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Sustaining Bonda PVTGs Livelihoods in Odisha: Insights form Bonda Development Agency Micro Project.

presenters

    Nancy Yadav

    Nationality: India

    Residence: India

    Galgotias University Greater Noida

    Presence:Online

Keywords:

Bonda PVTGs, Sustainable development, Bonda Development Agency, Odisha Government Micro Projects, Tribal Livelihood

Abstract:

In the quest for sustainability in contemporary India, the plight of rural and tribal livelihoods, particularly in Odisha, stands prominent. With the largest concentration of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the nation, Odisha initiated 17 micro projects dedicated to their development. Among these, the Bonda Development Agency (BDA), established in 1976-77 for the Bonda tribe, signifies a longstanding effort. However, despite substantial government allocations, evaluations reveal persistent challenges. The paper focus on the evaluation study, conducted by SCSTRTI, and sheds light on critical issues faced by Bonda PVTG households and their habitat. Gaps in infrastructure, access to basic facilities, and dwindling job opportunities leading to distress migration underscore the need for comprehensive interventions. While income levels have not significantly improved, innovative initiatives like Mission Jeebika and OPELIP hold promise for sustainable livelihoods. Mission Jeebika aims to introduce new livelihood initiatives, while OPELIP focuses on convergence with line departments for income-generating activities. These efforts, once extended to Bonda families, are expected to mitigate migration pressures by enhancing income levels. However, structural reforms within BDA are imperative, including the appointment of young and dedicated officers and the formulation of a 5-year perspective plan to address sectoral gaps.