Socio-Economic Challenges And Opportunites Of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups In Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) (Ministry of Tribal Affairs,2013) are among the most marginalized populations in Tamil Nadu, consisting of tribes like the Todas, Kotas, Kurumbas, Irulas, Paniyas, and Kattunayakas. Despite possessing rich cultural traditions and profound ecological wisdom, these communities confront ongoing socio-economic difficulties such as low levels of literacy, inadequate healthcare access, unemployment, land dispossession, and food insecurity. Structural obstacles including geographic isolation, insufficient infrastructure, and poor policy execution intensify their vulnerabilities. Research indicates a high burden of disease, migration driven by poverty, and a lack of sustainable employment options as critical issues (Baviskar, A. (2011). Nevertheless, there are notable opportunities through governmental initiatives, community-led efforts, The promotion of traditional handicrafts, eco-tourism, and improvements in forest-based livelihoods. Promoting access to education, healthcare services, digital literacy, and participatory governance could enable PVTGs to achieve economic and social resilience. This paper thoroughly examines both the challenges and emerging opportunities, highlighting the necessity for culturally sensitive policies, enhanced institutional support, and sustainable development strategies specifically designed to address the unique requirements of PVTGs in Tamil Nadu.