Social Determinants of Health and the Onges of Andaman Islands

Abstract

The issue of the necessity to either mainstream the tribes or leave them in their present habitat has been taking place for quite some time. But efforts at ensuring their healthy existence have not been taken up seriously. Various committees have been constituted in the past to discuss about their status and providing them benefits. But the concerns regarding health which can be ensured through simple yet conscious means have been neglected. In the context of the people in the mainstream, often the importance of this model is advocated for healthier life. The same can also be extended to the tribal population with a little effort. The present study is an attempt to highlight through the social determinants of health model, how one such reclusive tribe residing in Andaman Islands, that is the Onges, can be made to live a better and healthier life.