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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Associated Factors for the Poor Health of Baiga Tribes in Madhya Pradesh: An Indigenous Perspective

presenters

    Dr. Harshwardhan Vijay Shende

    Nationality: Indian

    Residence: India

    Scientist 'B' at ICMR-National Institute of Research in Tribal Health, Jabalpur

    Presence:Face to Face/ On Site

Keywords:

Baiga Tribe, Health, Marginalisation, Livelihood, Malnutrition

Abstract:

The health challenges faced by the Baiga tribes in Madhya Pradesh stem from a complex interplay of socio-economic factors which deeply embedded in their way of life and relationship with their environment. Despite their rich traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and symbiotic relationship with nature, the Baiga tribe continue to struggle with poor health outcomes. At the heart of their health disparities lies in poor performance of social determinants which perpetuate their marginalization and exacerbate their vulnerability. One such determinant is the historical and ongoing marginalization of tribal communities in India, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. This marginalization has resulted in persistent poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient healthcare services in Baiga areas, exacerbating health disparities. The Baiga people's traditional lifestyle and cultural practices, while once harmonious with their environment, have been disrupted by external factors such as deforestation. The denial of forest rights over the forest have not only threatened their traditional livelihoods but have also compromised their access to clean water, nutritious food, and traditional medicinal resources, leading to increased susceptibility to diseases and malnutrition. Women and children are particularly vulnerable and facing higher rates of malnutrition, maternal mortality, and limited access to healthcare services. This paper investigates the multifaceted factors contributing to their poor health outcomes, employing a socio-economic lens. Furthermore, it examines the interplay between these factors and their cumulative impact on the health and well-being of the Baiga community. By focusing on the complexities, this paper aims to inform policy interventions and community-based initiatives aimed at addressing the health disparities faced by the Baiga tribes.