A Study on Socio-Economic Status and Consumption Pattern of Tibetan Refugee Householdsin Ladakh Settlement, India

Abstract

Background: The refugee population is deprived of nutritious food mainly due to household socioeconomic characteristicssuch as income, education, and occupation. The study highlights the socio-economic status of Tibetan refugees in Ladakhsettlement in India. It also covers their dietary pattern such as protein, carbohydrates, fibers, and fats.This study alsoexamines the association between socioeconomic status and food consumption patterns.Methodology: Tibetan refugees in the Ladakh settlement formed the participant for this study.142 household data werecollected to understand the socio-economic status and food consumption pattern among Tibetan refugees in Ladakh.A structured interview questionnaire was employed to obtain the data. The data were statistically analyzed usingdescriptive statistics.Results and Conclusion: The result indicated that the Majority of Tibetan refugees in Ladakh belongs to lower andupper-lower socioeconomic status. The food consumption pattern has changed drastically from traditional food to a morecarbohydrate-rich diet. The association between socioeconomic status and fruit consumption was found to be significant(p>0.018). Also, education affects soft drink consumption as low-educated consume more compared to educatedrespondents (p>0.034). Tibetan refugees in Ladakh lack awareness about dietary diversity. They consume a diet rich infats and carbohydrates which may have health implications in the long run.