Scheduled Tribes Research Articles

Do climate adaptation programmes potentially exacerbate rural inequality? Identifying beneficiaries of a drought mitigation scheme in Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT The adverse implications of climate change can exacerbate socially uneven distributions of vulnerability. Therefore, climate adaptation programs are maladaptive if benefits are captured by privileged social groups, contributing to heightened socio-economic inequality and leaving the plight of highly vulnerable population segments unaddressed. This paper examines this potential using the case of Birsa Munda Krishi Kranti Yojana, an irrigation subsidy program for Scheduled Tribe farmers administered by the Government of Maharashtra, India. We investigated this scheme in Talasari block, an impoverished rural sub-administrative area 135 km north of Mumbai. The research shows that benefits from the scheme tended to flow towards more well-off agricultural households, notwithstanding checks-and-balances within the program that sought to prioritise the needs of poorer farmers. In turn, these distributional effects contributed to intensified agrarian class stratification by providing more well-off farmers with enhanced capabilities to respond to climate stresses, shedding important conceptual insights into the interplay of climate change and government policy for class mobility within smallholder and tribal populations. The evidence from this paper highlights the imperative for inclusive agricultural development and raises questions about agricultural subsidy programs as policy levers to address climate adaptation.

Inclusive Democracy Through the 73rd Amendment Act: An Empirical Evaluation of Scheduled Castes in Majha Region of Punjab

The concept of inclusive democracy has gained special attention in the past few decades, as it is a prerequisite for transparent and participatory governance. Also, it promotes decentralization with the open participation of the citizens. In order to attain inclusive governance with a transparent and efficient system, the 73rd Amendment Act has been providing opportunities to promote inclusive democracy in rural India in the form of panchayats since its inception. In Punjab, village democracies are also known as Gram Sabhas. The 73rd Amendment is meant for the inclusion of the marginals, especially the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and women at the grassroot politics. This study examines the status of participation and representation of SCs at the Panchayati level in general and particularly in comparison to the General category (GC) representatives in the Majha region. Moreover, the study locates where the SCs stand against GCs in the process of decision-making at the Panchayati level. The opinions and observations of the study were based upon in-depth interviews of 408 representatives of panchayats, which show that 73rd Amendment increases awareness, consciousness and assertion among the SCs for their rights in the Panchayati Raj. It also leads to the emergence of grassroot leadership among them. Also, the study depicts the frontward representation of SC women in the panchayats. Similarly, the study reflects some regional issues and concerns predominant in the panchayats. Besides, suggestions and recommendations are also made to promote inclusiveness at the grassroots.

The Development of Reservation Policies Under Article 15 of the Indian Constitution and Social Justice in India

This article examines the evolution and impact of reservation policies under Article 15 of the Indian Constitution and their role in advancing social justice in India. The historical context of inequality in India, rooted in the varna and caste systems, has profoundly influenced contemporary constitutional provisions. Article 14 guarantees equality before the law, while Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds such as religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Article 15(1) and 15(2) collectively aim to eliminate discriminatory practices in public life and access to public places. Article 15(3) allows for special provisions for women and children, and Article 15(4) provides a constitutional basis for affirmative action to benefit socially and educationally backward classes, Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs). Recent amendments, including Article 15(5) and the 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act introducing Article 15(6), expand reservations to private educational institutions and reinforcing caste identities, socio-economic disparities within reserved categories, and the balance between affirmative action and meritocracy persist. The researcher has emphases the reservation policies aim to enhance social equity and opportunities for marginalized communities, their effectiveness is complex and influenced by ongoing socio-economic factors. The role of the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, remains pivotal in interpreting and implementing these provisions to ensure true equality and social justice.

Determinants of childhood anaemia in India from 2005 to 2021: insights from the last three rounds of India National Family Health Surveys

Anaemia is a global public health problem affecting 800 million women and children globally. Anaemia is associated with perinatal mortality, child morbidity and mortality, mental development, immune competence, susceptibility to lead poisoning, and performance at work. This paper used data from India National Family Health Surveys (INFHS) carried out in 2005-06, 2015-16 and 2019-21 to identify the factors associated with childhood anaemia among children, adjusting for a range of covariates. In NFHS rounds of 3 and 4 after adjusting for standard covariates, in the probit model, it was found according to marginal effects, the probability of children being anaemic in urban areas is lower. Those belonging to the scheduled tribes have a higher probability of being anaemic in the two survey rounds of NFHS-3 and NFHS-4. Literate mothers were found to have a lower probability of anaemia in their children. In NFHS-5, in the binary logit model after adjusting for standard covariates, it was found that those belonging to the scheduled tribes were 1.348 times more likely to be anaemic compared to the scheduled castes. Maternal education was another significant factor determining the likelihood of being anaemic. Literate mothers were less likely to have anaemic children. This study provides crucial insights into the dynamic nature of childhood anaemia in India, utilizing data from three decades of NFHS surveys. It highlights the need for comprehensive interventions addressing socio-economic determinants, education of women, and behaviour change interventions to mitigate the burden of childhood anaemia in India.

Health disparity at the intersection of religion and caste: Evidence from India

ObjectiveThe provisions and recognition of Schedule Castes (SCs), the constitutional term for the Dalits in India, have been exclusively extended to Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs (HBS). Omission of Dalit Muslims and Christians (MC) from the SC category stripped them of the affirmative action benefits tied with the SC status. This study aimed to explore how such differential treatment might play a role in differential health outcomes in Dalit women in India. MethodsDrawing data on 177,346 Dalit women, aged 20 to 49 years, from two successive nationally representative surveys, we assessed the differential likelihood of hypertension and diabetes, between MC- and HBS- Dalit women. Accounting for birth cohort-, survey wave-, and state of residence- fixed effects, along with socioeconomic conditions and cardiometabolic risk factors, we obtained adjusted odds of having hypertension and diabetes in MC women. To check the validity of our results, we conducted similar analyses using data on 170,889 Scheduled Tribe (ST) women, another marginalized group, whose ST-status recognition were not tied to religion. ResultsWe found that Dalit MC women were 1.13 (95% CI: 1.03–1.25) and 1.19 (95% CI: 1.05–1.36) times more likely to have hypertension and diabetes, respectively, compared to Dalit HBS women. Conversely, no statistically significant differential likelihood of these conditions was observed between MC and HBS women in the ST sample. ConclusionOur investigation thus, indicated a potential link at the crossroads of religion and caste that may contribute to the health disparities among marginalized women in India.

Traditional alcoholic beverages of the Bonda tribe in Odisha, India: evidence from the field

Traditional alcoholic-beverages have been used by the tribes since ages. Bonda is one of the 62 Schedule Tribes and 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups of Odisha, who reside in the southern part of the state. Historically, a number of traditional alcohols have been produced by the Bonda which is consumed widely and used in the socio-economic and cultural events. Current times evidence the production and use of traditional alcohols gradually giving way to modern alcoholic drinks. In this context this paper tries to document different types of traditional alcohols produced, consumed and used by the Bonda along with its various impacts on the individual drinker and the society. The data were collected through community-based research in four villages under Khairaput block of Malkangiri, Odisha. The study found that 23 types of traditional alcohols are produced by the Bonda households, who derive economic security there from. However, the production, consumption and use of traditional alcohols are on the decline with the gradual increase of foreign liquor and this paper suggests institutional support for the clean production and marketing of traditional alcohols of the Bonda tribe.

A Study on Crime against Scheduled Castes in Metropolitan Cities in India

The paper discussed crime against scheduled castes in metropolitan cities in India. It has found that higher incidences of crime against scheduled tribes identified in Lucknow, Kanpur, Jaipur and Bengaluru. On the other hand, least number of crimes are recorded in Coimbatore, Kochi, Chennai, Kozhikode and Surat. Incidences of murder, attempt to commit murder, assault on women with intent to outrage her modesty, assault on women above 18 years, and assault or use of criminal force on women with intent to disrobe crime are highest recorded in Bengaluru. Highest incidences of stalking crime are reported in Indore. Highest incidences and victims of sexual harassment, and insult to the modesty of women is reported in Hyderabad. Highest incidences and victims of simple hurt and grievous hurt are logged in Patna. Highest incidences of assault of children, rape, rape of women above 18 years, and attempt to commit rape are reported in Ahmedabad, Indore and Jaipur Kanpur has the highest incidences and victims of kidnapping and abduction against scheduled castes. Therefore, city corporations should implement policies and laws for minimizing crimes against scheduled castes and there should be proper awareness programs of such crimes.

Exploring the shift in newborn care practices among mothers and grandmothers in rural Odisha, India — a qualitative study

BackgroundThis study delves into newborn care and infant-feeding practices in rural Odisha, specifically focusing on the rural KBK + region of Odisha (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput region), inhabited predominantly by Schedule Tribes and Schedule Castes individuals. There has been an improvement in the health indicators in these areas in recent times. In the background of improved health indicators in these areas, this research explores the current and changing newborn care practices and attempts to gain insight into people’s perceptions of the factors that brought about the changes.MethodsThis qualitative study was conducted between February and July 2023 at Christian Hospital, Bissamcuttack in Odisha. The methodology involved focused group discussions with mothers and grandmothers.ResultsAnalysis revealed healthy practices like exclusive breastfeeding till six months of age, appropriate timing of the first bath, and prompt healthcare-seeking behavior for minor illnesses among the mothers. The use of cow ghee or breast milk in a baby’s eyes, the application of ash on the umbilical cord, and the use of herbal medicines for minor illnesses were practiced more by the grandmothers in the past and were not as popular among the mothers. It is noteworthy that the cultural practices to ward off the ‘evil eye’ were practiced by both mothers and grandmothers alike. Despite the influence of traditional cultural practices on the beliefs and norms of the community, the study identified a shift in health-seeking behavior, with increased reliance on healthcare providers and safe healthcare practices. The study identifies the pivotal role of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) as a bridge between the rural communities and the healthcare system.ConclusionsThis research provides valuable insights for healthcare providers aiming to enhance community-centric safe newborn care practices in rural settings. The emphasis is on the importance of understanding the current and changing local practices. This would help the healthcare providers to encourage healthy practices while eliminating the harmful practices related to newborn care through community workers like ASHA and Anganwadi workers.

Elementary education outcome efficiency of Indian state governments: a generalized stochastic frontier approach

PurposeThis paper aims to analyze the technical efficiency of Indian State governments in providing elementary education (EE) and to identify the determinants of their technical inefficiency.Design/methodology/approachThe Generalized Stochastic Frontier Approach (GSFA) is used in the context of the Inefficiency Effects Model to simultaneously estimate the frontier production function and the technical inefficiency model. Panel data of 28 Indian States from 2009–10 to 2018–19 is used.FindingsThe mean efficiency of States stands at 86%. Efficiency varied between 67 and 97%. 96% of the inter-state disparity in EE outcomes can be explained by inefficiency. Arunachal Pradesh is the least efficient State, followed by Sikkim and Tripura. Efficiency estimates were observed to change across States over the study period. Proportion of government schools, rural population, and proportion of Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe children are the major determinants of inefficiency.Practical implicationsThis study emphasizes that efficient resource management is as important as adequate resource allocation for achieving positive EE outcomes. It distinguishes resource-poor States from inefficient ones, providing insights to enhance States’ efficiency, and aiding policymakers in formulating strategies for ensuring equitable and quality EE.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to apply GSFA (for Indian States), providing a more robust estimation of efficiency. The Inefficiency Effects Model is employed that address the limitations inherent in the two-stage approach.

Hatti Community in the Trans-Giri Region of Himachal Pradesh: A Constitutionally Recognised Scheduled Tribe (2022)

Hatti Community in the Trans-Giri Region of Himachal Pradesh: A Constitutionally Recognised Scheduled Tribe (2022)

Revisiting sub classification of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes for affirmative action through judicial lens: Insights from State of Punjab v Davinder Singh

Revisiting sub classification of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes for affirmative action through judicial lens: Insights from State of Punjab v Davinder Singh

Socio-Economic Status of Scheduled Tribes: A Study of Tamilnadu State

Background: Scheduled Tribe are the oldest inhabitants of their native place. Economically and technologically they are still backward. Their language, culture, beliefs and customs are different. In India there are 427 main tribal communities living and Tamilnadu accounts for 36(Rao, 1993). In Tamilnadu, majority of the tribes were illiteracy, ignorance. There is no proper awareness about the government welfare schemes. They are dominated, exploited and controlled by their mainstream in the living area and occupational area. In this context this paper addresses the “Socio-Economic Status of Scheduled Tribes: A Study of Tamilnadu State”. Data and Method: The paper uses the secondary data from the Census India 2001 & 2011 and Statistical Profile of Scheduled Tribes in India, 2013and other research studies and carries out the cross classification analysis to realise its objectives. Conclusion: Majority of the tribal people live in below poverty line in Tamil Nadu. The result of the study shows that the educational, employment and economic conditions of the tribal people of Tamil Nadu are very poor in the present situation. Therefore, the state of Tamil Nadu needs to pay special attention to the problems of the indigenous people and improve their education, employment and economic status. Already, Aboriginal people have been given special reservations in education and employment. This is very low compared to the growing tribal population. Hence, it is the duty of the state to secure social and economic justice for the tribal people.

Educational Status of Tribals of Jammu and Kashmir: A Case Study of Women (Gujjars) in District Budgam

Abstract The education of Scheduled Tribes has become a vital component for the planned development of human resources in India. However, it has been observed that the literacy rates and education levels among Scheduled Tribes residing in Jammu and Kashmir are considerably lower than the national average. For instance, the Gujjars, who lead a nomadic lifestyle in District Budgam, migrate with their livestock to higher altitudes during seasonal journeys. This study utilizes both primary and secondary sources of data to understand the educational challenges faced by these communities. Unfortunately, census data from 2011 reveals that only 25.5% of Scheduled Tribe women in Jammu & Kashmir were literate compared to 34.8% nationally. This disparity can be attributed to several factors such as unawareness, conservative societal norms, traditional lifestyles, poverty, and lack of basic infrastructural facilities that pose significant obstacles to achieving educational attainment. Moreover, the conservative nature of society and stereotypes still prevalent in these sections further exacerbate the issue. To address this problem effectively, it is imperative that government bodies alongside not-for-profit organizations make concerted efforts to expedite progress towards improving education amongst Scheduled Tribes residing in Jammu and Kashmir. This paper aims to examine some fundamental issues faced by women belonging to the Gujjar community on a daily basis in District Budgam within the Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir; how can these deprived sections be brought up-to-speed with progress? In conclusion, it is high time that measures are taken to bridge this gap and ensure equal opportunities for all individuals irrespective of their social background or cultural practices. The government must work towards providing better access to quality education along with adequate infrastructure facilities for students belonging to Scheduled Tribes residing in Jammu and Kashmir so that they can break free from age-old traditions and contribute towards building a better future for themselves and their communities as well as for our country as a whole.

Disparity by caste and tribe: Understanding women's empowerment and health outcomes in India

AimWomen's empowerment status varies greatly in India according to caste, class, ethnicity and region. This paper aims to investigate the caste/tribe disparity in women's empowerment by region, the main correlates of each domain of empowerment, and the association of women's empowerment with nutritional and health care access outcomes, specifically anaemia, menstrual hygiene, and institutional delivery. MethodologyUsing National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021) data, we have created a modified survey-based women's empowerment index (SWPER) using principal component analysis with Oblique varimax rotation. The first four components are interpreted as an attitude to violence, freedom of movement, decision-making power and social independence. Several multivariate regression models were used to understand the factor associated with empowerment and the association of women's empowerment with different health outcomes. ResultsThe results indicate that women from the forward castes are the most empowered in most domains except decision-making. However, after controlling other background variables, the forward castes women are found to be the most empowered in attitude to violence, whereas Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes women were found to be the most empowered women in decision-making. With regards to social independence, deprived castes women are more empowered than the forward castes women. The likelihood of empowerment in social independence domain increases with increasing wealth. There are wide regional variations in empowerment level between different social groups. Caste/tribe identity plays a significant role in determining health outcomes in India. Among all empowerment domains, social independence emerges as the most significant associated factor with improved health across all caste/tribe groups. ConclusionThe path to women's empowerment in India must recognize the intersectionality of caste/tribe identities, and address regional disparities. Social independence emerges as a critical determinant across all caste/tribe groups for improving health. Measures should be taken to empower women through the underlying factors of social independence.

The Changing Trend of Tribal Education in West Bengal with Special Emphasis on the Girl Students

Education is an investment towards development. Gender gap in education is common among the backward classes of people in India. Aim of this study is to understand the recent trend of tribal education among the Scheduled Tribes of West Bengal. Study covered four districts from different zones of West Bengal. These were Alipurduar from north, Birbhum from central part, Purulia from west and South 24 Pargana from the southern part. The selected villages were chiefly inhabited by the tribal population. Secondary data related to tribal education were collected from Census of India (2011) and Statistics of School Education (2010- 11), while primary data were collected through field work in four districts. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were followed. A structured schedule was used for collection of household level data, which covered education related questions. Personal interviews with the teachers, parents and case studies of the students supplemented the quantitative data. Fourteen different tribal groups were studied in the selected areas during field work. Secondary sources suggest educational backwardness and gender gap among the tribal population. Findings show district wise and community specific variation in status of education among the studied population. A positive development was observed in case of girl’s education. The gender gap is gradually decreasing. Among many factors responsible for this changing trend, major was development programmes meant for girl’s education in West Bengal.

Wealth and education-related inequalities in the utilisation of reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health interventions within scheduled tribes in India: an analysis of Odisha and Jharkhand

BackgroundThe utilisation of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (RMNCH) services remains lower among the Scheduled Tribes (ST) in India than among the rest of the country’s population. The tribal population’s poorest and least-educated households are further denied access to RMNCH care due to the intersection of their social status, wealth, and education levels. The study analyses the wealth- and education-related inequalities in the utilisation of RMNCH services within the ST population in Odisha and Jharkhand.MethodologyWe have constructed two summary measures, namely, the Co-coverage indicator and a modified Composite Coverage Index (CC), to determine wealth- and education-related inequalities in the utilisation of RMNCH indicators within the ST population in Odisha and Jharkhand. The absolute and relative inequalities with respect to wealth and education within the ST population are estimated by employing the Slope Index of Inequality (SII) and the Relative Index of Inequality (RII).ResultsThe results of the study highlight that access to RMNCH services is easier for women who are better educated and belong to wealthier households. The SII and RII values in the co-coverage indicator and modified CCI exhibit an increase in wealth-related inequalities in Odisha between NFHS-4 (2015-16) and NFHS-5 (2019-21) whereas in Jharkhand, the wealth- and education-related absolute and relative inequalities present a reduction between 2016 and 2021. Among the indicators, utilisation of vaccination was high, while the uptake of Antenatal Care Centre Visits and Vitamin A supplementation should be improved.InterpretationThe study results underscore the urgent need of targeted policies and interventions to address the inequalities in accessing RMNCH services among ST communities. A multi-dimensional approach that considers the socioeconomic, cultural and geographical factors affecting healthcare should be adopted while formulating health policies to reduce inequalities in access to healthcare.

Who is Anaemic in India? Intersections of class, caste, and gender.

Anaemia severely impacts physical and mental abilities, raises health risks, and diminishes the quality of life and work capacity. It is a leading cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes and maternal mortality, especially in developing nations like India, where recent data on anaemia from National Family and Health Survey (NFHS-4) (2015-16) and NFHS-5 (2019-21) indicate a tremendous rise. Anaemia is a marker of poor nutrition and health, and socio-economic factors such as gender norms, race, income, and living conditions influence its impact. As a result, there are disparities in how anaemia affects different segments of society. However, existing research on health inequity and anaemia often employs a single-axis analytical framework of social power. These studies operate under the assumption that gender, economic class, ethnicity, and caste are inherently distinct and mutually exclusive categories and fail to provide a comprehensive understanding of anaemia prevalence. Therefore, the study has adopted the theoretical framework of intersectionality and analysed the NFHS-5 (2019-21) data using bivariate cross-tabulations and binary logistic regression models to understand how gender, class, caste, and place of residence are associated with the prevalence of anaemia. The results suggest that the women of Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC) share a disproportionate burden of anaemia. This study confirms that economic class and gender, geographical location, level of education, and body mass index significantly determine the prevalence of anaemia. The ST and SC women who are economically marginalised and reside in rural areas with high levels of poverty, exclusion, and poor nutritional status have a higher prevalence of anaemia than other population groups. Thus, the study suggests that intersections of multiple factors such as caste, class, gender, and place of residence significantly determine 'who is anaemic in India'.

Transforming Energy Access: The Role of Micro Solar Dome in Providing Clean Energy Lighting in Rural India

Access to affordable and reliable energy sources can substantially enhance the lives of marginalized communities in rural areas. Unfortunately, numerous households in these communities rely upon unclean sources of energy such as kerosene to light the house even during daylight. To address this issue, solar off-grid technology - Micro Solar Dome (MSD) was implemented in various states across India, specifically benefiting the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities. The study, across the eight selected states, highlights the advantages of adopting off-grid technologies and their roles in promoting awareness of renewable energy solutions. The survey used purposive sampling to collect community members’ perceptions of the product’s benefits and their awareness of renewable technologies. The results indicated that the utilization of the product not only enhanced illumination levels within households but also contributed to improved safety, increased study hours for children, and facilitated economic activities during the evening hours. Furthermore, the study revealed that education plays a crucial role in adopting solar energy. However, interventions such as awareness programs and hands-on experiences with the products can also greatly enhance awareness and promote adoption in rural areas. Overall, the study provided compelling evidence of the significant and positive impact that small-scale initiatives like the MSD can have on the lives of marginalized communities. It also emphasized the potential of such solutions to empower these communities and improve their overall well-being.

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

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.

A district-level geospatial analysis of the availability of improved water and sanitation among tribal households in India

ABSTRACT Despite progress in Sustainable Development Goal 6, which envisages clean water and sanitation for all, enormous disparities in access to water and sanitation services between and within countries continue to be a significant challenge. Evidence on the spatial heterogeneity of water, sanitation, and hygiene practices among the Scheduled Tribe (ST) population is limited in India. This study estimates the spatial heterogeneity in ST people's access to improved water and sanitation facilities and its correlates at the district level. Geospatial techniques like Moran's I, univariate and bivariate local indicator of spatial association, and spatial regression models were carried out for 707 districts covered in the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey, 2019–21. Stata was used for descriptive analysis, and ArcMap and GeoDA were used for spatial analysis. Only about half of ST households had access to improved water and sanitation facilities in India. Spatial heterogeneity across districts was evident, with 130 districts from Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and some portion of Karnataka forming the hot spots. Gender and age of the household head, family type, and region were significantly associated with improved water and sanitation facilities among ST households.