Socio-Demographic and Health Profile of Scheduled Tribes of Six Integrated Tribal Development Agency Spots in Kurnool District

Abstract

Introduction: A tribe is a self-contained, homogeneous group that exists independently of any hierarchical system. According to the 2011 census, 10.42 crore Indians are identified as ‘Scheduled Tribes’, comprising 8.6% of the country’s total population and 11.3% of the rural population. Tribal habitations are scattered across vast areas with limited access to basic health necessities, rendering them vulnerable to various health hazards. This article focuses on demographic profiles such as age, gender, caste, religion, marital status, educational status, occupation, dietary habits, and addiction, enabling an assessment of the socio-economic and health status of tribal groups in the specified area. Objectives: The main objectives of the study were to conduct a socio-demographic survey, promote knowledge on disease prevention, and provide healthcare and free medication facilities through Unani medicine via mobile medical camps. Methodology: The study was conducted in six Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) spots inhabited by the Sugali or Lambada tribe of Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, characterized by low socio-economic status. Data was collected through door-to-door surveys and a pre-designed questionnaire provided by CCRUM. Results: A total of 3755 individuals were screened, of which 450 were selected for data collection. Among the 450 individuals, the majority were males (253 i.e., 56.22%) belonging to the Hindu religion, with 98.44% being Scheduled Tribes. Educational status was average, with 63.33% being illiterate. More than half of the individuals (51.55%) were married, and the majority (52.66%) were agricultural laborers, with almost all being non-vegetarians. Additionally, 26% of individuals were addicted to smoking. Conclusion: Common challenges faced by the Sugali tribes of Kurnool district include lack of resources, industrialization, and socio-economic factors such as illiteracy. These factors contribute to poverty, malnutrition, and various physical and psychological disorders among tribal communities.