Tribal Communities Research Articles

Malnutrition in tribal people living with tuberculosis in India: A systematic review & meta-analysis.

Background & objectives Tuberculosis (TB) remains a persistent public health challenge in India. The country also has high proportions of malnutrition in different areas, making the population susceptible to TB. Among vulnerable populations, such as tribal communities, TB and malnutrition pose significant threats. Tribal populations exhibit disproportionately higher TB prevalence rates compared to non-tribal groups. Also, malnutrition prevalence among tribal communities far exceeds national averages in India. Amidst fragmented data, a systematic review of nutritional status among tribal populations with TB in India is imperative to inform comprehensive intervention strategies. Methods Cross-sectional, case-control, cohort and interventional studies reporting the nutritional status of active TB affected individuals among tribal populations in India were specifically included if terms such as "malnutrition" or "low BMI" were used. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020168328). The data was assessed using a random-effects model and standardized mean with 95% confidence interval (CI). The I2 statistics indicated heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots. Results Out of 124 studies, 20 were selected for initial screening, 15 were excluded due to a lack of appropriate data, and five were included for the final analysis. The pooled prevalence estimates of malnutrition among Indian tribes living with TB was 514 per 1000 people, with 95% CI: 232-791. The sensitivity analysis showed that no individual study influenced the estimation of pooled prevalence. Interpretation & conclusions In the background of India, contributing considerably to the burden of TB-related morbidity and mortality alongside undernutrition, reviews have underscored undernutrition as the predominant risk factor for TB, affecting over 50 per cent of the population in some States. This situation is exacerbated among the tribal communities in India due to the dual burdens of undernutrition and TB being more pronounced. Our systematic review consolidates evidence from five studies, revealing the prevalence of malnutrition among tribal TB patients. Conducting well-planned implementation research to address this dual burden among the underprivileged population would help achieve the ambitious goal of a TB-free India 2025.

Assessing the factors influencing the severity of anemia in tribal women of Malkangiri, Odisha, India

Background: Anemia is a serious public health concern with a high prevalence in tribal communities' women in India. Despite several implementations to strengthen the maternal health and nutrition program, anemia persists. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to estimate anemia prevalence and to examine the predictors of anemia among Koya and Matia tribal women in a district of Odisha, Malkangiri. Materials and Methods: For this study, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 519 tribal (Koya- 326) and (Matia- 193) women aged 15-49 years. A pre-tested schedule was used to collect data on different demographic variables, and a Hemoglobin (Hb) meter was used to estimate Hb level. Prevalence of anemia among tribal women was estimated and Chi-Square and Multinomial logistics regression were used to find the association. Results: The mean hemoglobin value in the overall sample (n=519) was 7.86±1.77. The results showed that 34.35% of Koya and 33.67% of Matia were severely anemic, while 56.13% of Koya and 55.43% of Matia were moderately anemic, and mild anemia was reported to be 3.68 in Koya and 4.14 in Matia's women. Early marriage, women's age at first childbirth, parity, were major factors influencing the severity of anemia. Conclusion: The high prevalence of anemia among both communities' tribal women necessitates immediate action through targeted interventions to enhance and ensure widespread coverage of anemia control programs, especially in tribal areas.

A study to assess the knowledge and attitude of selected tribal community regarding uses of Long Lasting Insecticidal treated Mosquito Nets for prevention and control of Malaria, in Kandhamal district, OdishaNets for prevention and control of Malaria, in Kandhamal district, Odisha

A study to assess the knowledge and attitude of selected tribal community regarding uses of Long Lasting Insecticidal treated Mosquito Nets for prevention and control of Malaria, in Kandhamal district, OdishaNets for prevention and control of Malaria, in Kandhamal district, Odisha

Community Beliefs and Practices Around High Fertility in a High-Risk Environment: A Qualitative Study on Porja Hilly Tribe Living in Andhra Pradesh, India

This study aims to document the tribal community beliefs and practices around fertility behaviours of the Porja vulnerable tribal group in Andhra Pradesh, India. With the purposive sampling method, 175 mothers of reproductive age (>15–49 years) were selected based on the inclusion criteria of having experienced fertility practices and the cultural significance associated with it. The socio-demographic profiles and the fertility rates of 175 mothers have been enumerated through household survey methods and semi-structured interview schedules. The qualitative data collection involved 42 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions (involving 6–10 women) on specific sociocultural practices around fertility behaviour patterns. Handwritten interviews and conversations were transcribed and coded into themes and categories. Views from the themes reveal that the sociocultural environment has influenced fertility behaviours. Age at marriage and conception at adolescence are the main factors affecting tribal fertility. Traditional fertility-seeking behaviour indicated sequential care from traditional birth attendants and local medicinal women (providing medicine for early conception and birth spacing). The preference for two sons’ was the theme that largely influenced fertility trends. There is a need for comprehensive healthcare intervention in the PVTG tribal areas to lessen the unhealthy reproductive practices that affect tribal survival chances, leading to higher mortality rates.

Political and Constitutional Rights of Tribal Communities in Indian Constitution

The Constitution of India has laid down some basic provisions for the upliftment of the interests of the tribal community and its overall upliftment. Considering the social and economic situation in India, the scheduled tribes should get a fair place in the development of the country in the post - independence era, they should be developed in all respects and social and economic equality should be established, and the feeling of marginalization should not remain in the backward tribes. Specially, there is a provision in our constitution to reserve some seats in legislatures, ministries and administration for backward classes. While preparing the state constitution of the country, it is seen that important provisions have been made in the constitution for the scheduled tribes in order to establish economic and social democracy in the country. In order to establish economic and social justice, it was necessary to make special provisions for the backward classes.

Drug-Related Violence, Substance Abuse, and Mental Health Challenges in a Southeastern American Indian Tribe: A Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT Background Drug-related violence [DRV] and substance abuse impact the mental health of economically challenged minority community members. DRV challenges to mental health promotion are exacerbated in American Indian [AI] communities. Purpose To investigate psycho-social and environmental factors influencing DRV, substance abuse, and mental health challenges within the Lumbee, a southeastern American Indian Tribe. Methods In-depth, one-on-one interviews with 37 Lumbee Tribal Members and Key Leaders were conducted. Results Findings align with existing research, revealing the influence of poor socioeconomic conditions, poor coping strategies, broken family structures, and failed federal policy. The substantial influence of local Christian churches on beliefs, attitudes, and practices of the Lumbee community vis-à-vis DRV and mental health was recognized. Discussion Findings indicated that social-environmental factors, seemingly independent of drug use/violence prevention and treatment, play important roles in the Lumbee community’s ability to recover from mental health consequences of DRV. Identifying barriers to, and facilitators of, prevention and treatment are critical to improving the welfare of tribal communities. Translation to Health Education Practice Major competencies associated with this research apply to Areas I & II, Assessment of Needs/Capacity and Planning. Identification of DRV and mental health education, prevention and treatment barriers are critical to quality-of-life improvement in tribal communities.

Abstract B091: Listen, Empower, Co-Create: Conducting listening sessions to create tailored messages about colorectal health for American Indian communities

Abstract Background We conducted Listening Sessions using a modified version of boot camp translation (BCT), a validated community engaged approach, to engage American Indian community members in the Great Plains and the Pacific Northwest to develop culturally and locally relevant colorectal cancer (CRC) screening messages and materials. Methods CRC is one of the leading causes of cancer death in the US and disproportionally affects American Indian adults. Routine CRC screening leads to earlier diagnosis and prolonged survival from the disease. In partnership with Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board (GPTLHB), South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency (SPIPA), and National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, we used a modified BCT approach to obtain feedback from tribal communities to create CRC screening messages and materials. To make the BCT process more meaningful for our partner communities, we reframed the BCT sessions by referring to them as Listening Sessions. The Listening Session engagement process was designed to help community leaders and champions learn about local barriers and gaps in care (listen), share health information in a collaborative way (empower), and develop messages and materials that resonate with and motivate community members to take control of their health (co-create). Eligible tribal community members from GPTLHB and SPIPA were between the ages of 45-75 and able to participate in three Listening Session meetings (one five-hour in-person meeting including expert presentations, brainstorming opportunities, and interactive small group sessions, and two follow-up virtual sessions (one-hour each) to refine messages and materials). Results Common Themes. Both groups emphasized the importance of using a multigenerational approach by including grandchildren and Elders in the messages and materials. Additionally, they highlighted the need for materials to be relatable and culturally relevant by incorporating local cultural imagery and traditions and multigenerational family support .Differing Themes. The GPTLHB findings focused specifically on including Lakota words to reinforce cultural identity, using visuals for colon health education, and incorporating details about healing traditions. The SPIPA findings recommended highlighting intertribal milestones like the canoe journey and incorporating water as a symbol of spiritual healing. Materials and Dissemination Methods. Preferred materials and channels for dissemination were: 1) fact sheets, posters, and visual stories to be distributed in-clinic or at community events, 2) animated videos for CRC screening education to be shown in clinic, 3) live action videos with community member CRC stories to be shown in clinic. Final materials will be available here: www.KPCHR-engage.org Conclusion We conducted Listening Sessions to incorporate participant feedback to develop CRC screening messages and materials and identified preferred dissemination channels for tribal communities in the Great Plains and Pacific Northwest. Citation Format: Jamie Thompson, Jennifer Rivelli, Priyanka Gautom, LaToya Brave Heart, Jamie Nikander, Lorrie Graaf, Gloria Coronado. Listen, Empower, Co-Create: Conducting listening sessions to create tailored messages about colorectal health for American Indian communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B091.

Phenotypic characterization of the native yaks of Sikkim

Native yaks of Sikkim are reared in a pastoral production system by the tribal Dokpa community for their economic and socio-religious significance. Sikkimese yaks are phenotypically distinguishable from the yaks found in the neighbouring state of Arunachal Pradesh. Animals are generally black, broad and convex forehead, horizontal ears, curved upward pointing horns and docile temperament. Females have round udder and cylindrical teats. Also, Sikkimese yaks have comparatively shorter body length, lesser heart girth and greater height at withers as compared to Arunachali yaks. Animals are reared in a pastoral production system with characteristic features like seasonal migration, temporary shelters, highland forage grazing and ethno-veterinary practices. However, there are certain threats, which must be countered to ensure the continual existence and sustainability of this valuable germplasm.

Abstract A084: Journey to understanding indigenous peoples engagement in cancer genomic research

Abstract Introduction: Tribal Nations across the Southwest have striking disparities in cancer incidence and mortality. Compounded by disproportionately low rates of cancer screening and limited access to healthcare, Native Americans are more often diagnosed at later stages of disease and have the poorest outcomes in all types of cancer when compared to any other racial and ethnic group in the United States. At the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Participant Engagement Cancer Genomic Sequencing (PE-CGS) Center is developing culturally appropriate materials and strategies to enhance the engagement and recruitment of Native Americans into genomic research. This effort aims to determine participant knowledges, attitudes, cultural beliefs, and communication preferences regarding clinical genomics testing. Ultimately, targeting improvement of cancer outcomes in Southwestern Tribal communities. Cultural adaptations are crucial with regards to biospecimen collection, storage, and usage, due to historical mistrust of research among Native communities. (i.e., Havasupai Tribe v. the Arizona Board of Regents). A Tribal Advisory Committee, consisting of Tribal leaders, Native physicians, and patient advocates oversee all aspects of the research study. The goal is to identify appropriate optimized health literacy strategies for engaging Native peoples in cancer genomic research. Methods: The team conducted semi-structured discussions with participants to understand their perspectives on motivations to join, cultural safety components, and effectiveness of engagement strategies. With participant consent, the discussions were recorded and transcribed. Analysis included the transcripts and notes taken by the interviewer and followed Grounded Theory principles. All transcripts and notes followed line-by-line analysis by three of the authors (JS, JR and TG) who met regularly to identify and discuss emergent themes. Results: As of May 31, 2024, the PE-CGS study has enrolled 112 participants and completed 39 discussions. Participants emphasized altruistic motives tied to family and community, echoing traditional values, in their decision to participate in the study. This notion emerged during interactions with Native team members, where comfort stemmed from shared experiences (healthcare system, barriers), use of Native language, and adherence to Native social norms. Additional considerations included present autonomy throughout various stages of the study (sample use, data sharing, discussions). Return of genetic testing results improved understanding of treatment options, hereditary risk, and health literacy. Conclusion: Feedback highlights the importance of aligning cultural beliefs with Western medicine through a strengths-based approach. The findings will inform improvements in respectful engagement, communication, information exchange, and recruitment processes with Native American cancer patients and cancer survivors to genomic testing studies. Citation Format: Jessica Sanchez, Koby Blackwater, Joseph Rodman, Tamar Ginossar, Andrew Sussman, Shiraz Mishra, Cindy Blair, Mallery Quetawki, Debra MacKenzie, V. Shane Pankratz, Ursa Brown-Glaberman, Jeffery Trent, Cheryl Willman. Journey to understanding indigenous peoples engagement in cancer genomic research [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A084.

Discrimination at Health Center: Experiences of Tribal Women and Midwives in Jharkhand, India

The pivotal concern of this study is to investigate how age, social status, language, and cultural background interact to affect women’s control over and susceptibility to disrespect during birth setting in Jharkhand, India. Women, particularly, belonging from tribal community were directly impacted by disrespect during birth settings, which happens during pregnancy, labor, and the first few weeks following delivery. Hence, the article aims to uncover the effects of disrespect during birth setting on patient’s trust in birth setting facilities and health care teams. Besides, this study also adds to challenge the culture of silence that currently surrounds this issue. The study was conducted in the Sisai block of Jharkhand’s Gumla district, where focus group discussion (FGD) with the assistance of 18 public health midwives (PHMs) and 24 individuals with prior parturition experience were involved. The qualitative data was categorized and analyzed using an intersectional framework, which facilitated the identification of significant themes and patterns. The results show that power dynamics and repressive institutions associated with gender, ethnicity, social, linguistic, and cultural inequality were intertwined with disrespect during birth setting, especially with tribal women. In conclusion, the standard of birthing treatment in India needs to be improved, especially in tribal regions.

Sustainable Tribal Livelihood Generation through Tribal Cooperatives and the Effective Use of Minor Forest Products in Jharkhand

A significant part of India’s tribal community, which forms 11.3% of its rural demographic, relies heavily on Minor Forest Products (MFPs) for their livelihood. Reports indicate that around 100 million people are engaged in the collection and trade of MFPs, supporting nearly 275 million rural Indians, many of whom are tribal. Despite these natural resources, tribal groups in India face substantial socio-economic challenges, lagging behind in access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and financial opportunities. This gap is where Tribal co-operatives can make a significant impact, focusing on poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, and community development by creating sustainable business models that address unmet societal needs. Jharkhand, known as the "land of forests," is among the top three Indian states with a high tribal population, where approximately 60% depend on forest resources for their sustenance. Diverse MFPs like tamarind mainly enrich the state's economy. Yet, the full economic potential of these resources is underutilized due to limited market access and inadequate livelihood opportunities for tribal populations. The present study, titled " Sustainable Tribal livelihood generation through tribal cooperatives and the effective use of minor forest products in Jharkhand," examines how forming cooperatives can not only increase villagers' incomes by producing higher-value products but also strengthen communities and promote sustainable economic development. Educating tribes on available government schemes could significantly enhance their livelihoods and contribute to India's economic growth.

GC-MS profiling of the leaf extract of Garcinia pedunculata, molecular docking, ADME/drug likeness predictions and toxicity analysis

Medicinal plants have long been valued for their efficacy, cultural acceptance and lower side effects. Amidst rising concerns about multidrug-resistant bacteria, there is an increasing push to identify novel plant-based drugs with unique mechanisms of action. Garcinia pedunculata, commonly used as food and traditional medicine among tribal communities in North Eastern India, was investigated for its potential medicinal properties. The study involved analyzing the phytoconstituents of the methanolic leaf extract using GC-MS (Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry), which identified 30 compounds. These compounds were further evaluated through in silico studies, including drug-likeness assessments and molecular docking. Molecular docking results indicated that the compounds strongly interacted with Penicillin Binding Protein 4 (PBP4) of Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus), a well-known drug target. Notably, ethane-1,1-diol dipropanoate demonstrated favorable drug-like properties, meeting four out of five drug filters and exhibiting promising physiochemical characteristics, lipophilicity, solubility and pharmacokinetic profiles with minimal toxicity. This suggests its potential for development into novel antimicrobial formulations. Further research using animal models is underway to validate these findings in vivo.

Eco–Tourism and its Development in Tribal Regions of Jharkhand

Jharkhand, a state nestled in the lap of nature and often called the land of forests, is a haven for those seeking solace and spiritual connection amidst natural beauty. Its rich and abundant natural splendour offers many opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. Whether it's observing the diverse flora and fauna thriving in its verdant forests, marvelling at the numerous enchanting waterfalls, trekking through breathtaking hills, encountering the diverse wildlife in its renowned national parks, or embarking on a profound spiritual journey through its famous temples, Jharkhand promises an unforgettable and reflective experience. Therefore, exploring ecotourism in the state of Jharkhand has the potential for significant economic growth, offering hope to marginalised communities and fostering optimism in sustainable tourism and economic sustainability. The study delves into ecotourism by exploring the rich cultural practices and traditions of tribal communities in Jharkhand. It envisions ecotourism as a unifying force, aiming to unite people from all walks of life under the shared belief of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”— One Earth, One Family, One Future. The involvement of tribals in ecotourism has the potential to promote environmental sustainability and drive social, economic, and cultural development. Key Words: Tribal, Sustainable, Ecotourism, Flora and Fauna, Non-Timber Forest Products, Forest Bath.

Literacy And Health Awareness Among Tribal Women In North Coastal Districts Of Andhra Pradesh

Tribal women are mostly illiterate and Socially and economically back word. A significant percentage of indigenous tribal women continue to employ home remedies and seek out traditional medicine practitioners/healers. If they are not healed, they seek treatment at private facilities. Inaccessibility, lack of facilities, personnel and their behavior, inconvenient visiting hours, and sickness state were highlighted as barriers to health seeking behavior among Indian tribes while visiting hospitals. Personal problems such as fear of losing daily earnings, cultural beliefs, cost, illiteracy, and unacceptability are also present. Over the years, the lack of maternal health awareness has caused several health concerns, including anemia, neural tube defects , tetanus infection, immunodeficiency syndrome, and even perinatal deaths. Poverty, illiteracy, meagre living conditions, lack of personal hygiene and poor health-seeking behaviour are known to be highly prevalent among these tribes. Further, early age at marriage, consanguinity, high parity and other behavioural factors among women in these tribal communities make them susceptible to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Public Libraries Encouraged to Meet the Health Information Needs of Tribal Women in Bangladesh

A Review of: Yesmin, S., Abdul Karim, M., & Atikuzzaman, M. (2023). Community engagement of public libraries for ensuring tribal women’s health literacy in Bangladesh. IFLA Journal, 49(4), 678–693. https://doi.org/10.1177/03400352231198260 Objective – To investigate public libraries’ existing community engagement practices, explore their willingness to provide health information services to tribal communities in Bangladesh, and examine tribal women’s health information-seeking behavior and interest in obtaining health information from public libraries. Design – A cross-sectional study using online interviews and structured questionnaires. Setting – Public libraries and tribal communities in tribal regions of Bangladesh. Subjects – Public librarians (n=11) and tribal women (n=276) from three tribal districts in Bangladesh (Bandarban, Khagrachari, and Mymensingh). Methods – Interviews were conducted with librarians via Zoom in January 2023. Survey questionnaires were distributed to a convenience sample of 300 tribal women from February to March 2023. Data was analyzed in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), using univariate and bi-variate measures. Main Results – All of the libraries provided print materials (books, newspapers, and periodicals) for reading and lending and offered photocopying and Internet browsing services. Other forms of resources such as microfiches and digital materials, inter-library loan services, and facilities for people with disabilities were not widely available. Most libraries (72.8%) did not provide any specific program (e.g., health-related outreach program) for tribal community engagement, although they all recognized the urgency and value of such programs. Lack of funding and bureaucratic complexities were identified as the top two barriers. Out of the 276 tribal women responding to the survey, close to two-thirds of the respondents indicated they were either moderately or very interested in receiving health information. The top three health topics the respondents sought information on were vaccinations, symptoms of disease, and nutrition. The primary health information sources for the respondents were doctors at nearby community clinics or government hospitals, and none of the respondents sought health information from public libraries. Most respondents acknowledged the importance of being informed about health issues and found it difficult to locate health information on the Internet. High costs and lack of awareness regarding health issues represented the main challenges the respondents encountered when seeking health information. Among the demographic variables, respondents’ religion and age were negatively correlated with their interest in health information, while their education status was positively correlated with it. Conclusion – Public libraries in tribal areas in Bangladesh lacked health information services but recognized the importance of providing them. Tribal women expressed interest in receiving health information, encouraging public libraries to develop and implement related services and programs. Public libraries may consider adding new job titles such as consumer health librarians and partner with other stakeholders for better community engagement. The government of Bangladesh should substantially invest in public libraries as community hubs and minimize bureaucratic hurdles that prevent public libraries from initiating new services. Professional library organizations in Bangladesh may also draw ideas from the study in establishing professional guidelines for health information services and community outreach programs.

Recommendations for Academic Health Libraries Outreach and Engagement Programs with Indigenous Peoples at Collaboration and Empowerment Levels: Striving for Empowerment

A Review of: Cruise, A., Ellsworth-Kopkowski, A., Villezcas, A. N., Eldredge, J., & Rethlefsen, M. L. (2023). Academic health sciences libraries’ outreach and engagement with North American Indigenous communities: A scoping review. Journal of the Medical Library Association, 111(3), 630–656. https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2023.1616 Objective – To identify trends and themes in literature sources on interventions for engagement and outreach by academic health sciences libraries with Native Americans, Alaska Natives, First Nations, and Indigenous peoples in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, in order to identify and share effective practices. Design – Scoping review. Setting – Academic health sciences libraries in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Subjects – Sixty-five reports of 45 engagement and outreach programs spanning 1982-2022. Methods – Researchers conducted a scoping review guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework (2005) and the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis. They first established inclusion and exclusion criteria then developed a search strategy and ran it across seven bibliographic databases and a library and information science repository. The research team also searched specific journals, conference proceedings, and websites, to find unpublished materials and grey literature; they used mailing lists and personal contacts to find further sources. The researchers used Covidence to screen sources from the bibliographic databases, with English language sources screened by two reviewers and non-English language sources screened by at least one reviewer who could read that language. Sources found via other search methods were screened using Google Sheets, which was also used for data extraction. The researchers analyzed the data using the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum of Public Participation, summarizing programs within the two highest levels to synthesize effective practice. Main Results – The authors identified 45 programs with 27 types of interventions. Training was the most common intervention at 25.5%. They identified 130 different partners; government organizations, both federal and tribal, were the most common at 23.1%. Using the IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation, a tool designed to assess the level of participation and role of the public in public participation processes, the research team found that five programes (11.1%) engaged with the community at the two highest and also most effective and meaningful levels of collaborate and empower. From these five programs the researchers identified the following areas of effective practice: 1) partnership building and building trust with tribal communities including respecting the knowledge and expertise of the community partners, 2) prioritising and understanding the needs of the tribal communities including developing awareness of cultural differences, 3) partnering with multiple organisations to increase infrastructure, resources, and funding, and, where possible, 4) building on preexisting partnerships and relationships. Conclusion – The authors concluded that libraries are likely to struggle to reach the two highest levels of the IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation, due to issues with infrastructure, resources, long-term funding, and previous troubled relationships between governments, organizations, and researchers with Native and Indigenous populations, leading to challenges with building and sustaining partnerships. They recommend that libraries initiate any engagement and outreach programs with a needs assessment, with the goal of involving the community partners as collaborators or empowering them as owners and decision makers. The researchers also recommend engaging programs with data sovereignty to increase IAP2 levels and give communities control over their own data.

Tribal Health in India: Overcoming Public Health Challenges with a Focus on Tuberculosis

Introduction: India’s tribal communities face significant public health issues, with tuberculosis (TB) being a major concern. These populations experience a higher TB burden due to limited healthcare access, socioeconomic inequalities, and distinct cultural practices. This study focuses on the prevalence and impact of TB among these communities. Methods: A comprehensive review of literature from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar was conducted to analyze the health challenges, particularly TB, affecting India’s tribal populations. Results: The review highlights a significant disparity in TB prevalence between tribal and non-tribal populations. Factors like inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited medical access, and socioeconomic inequalities, along with cultural practices, complicate TB transmission and treatment, emphasizing the need for culturally tailored interventions. Conclusion: Addressing the TB crisis in India’s tribal communities requires a holistic and culturally sensitive approach. Collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, policymakers, and tribal communities are crucial to improving health outcomes and preserving cultural heritage for a sustainable future.

COVID-19 Disease and Chronic Health Outcomes Associated with Nicotine Use in a Great Plains Tribal Community: A Community-Based Study.

The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe (CRST) is affected by high nicotine use and disease burden. Understanding nicotine exposure is important to recognize what groups may be at higher risk for negative health outcomes, including COVID-19. To compare self-reported health outcomes and nicotine use between exclusive electronic cigarette (e-cig) users, users of combustible cigarettes, dual e-cig/cigarette users, and nonusers among adult residents on the CRST. The CRST "COVID-19 - Wayakta He study" ("Are you on guard against COVID-19?") recruited 562 participants on the reservation who filled out a 97-item survey. Regression models were used to analyze nicotine exposure, demographic characteristics, and health outcomes. Prevalence of nicotine use among participants was 53%. Reported median puffs per day was 15 for e-cig, 100 for cigarette, and 20 for dual users (p < 0.001). The odds of having COVID-19 were lower for nicotine users compared to nonusers (p < 0.001). The odds of hypertension (p = 0.04) and high cholesterol (p = 0.03) were lower for nicotine users compared to nonusers. The proportional odds were higher for nicotine users for longer COVID-19 recovery time (p = 0.046) and lower for more severe COVID-19 infection (p = 0.001). This study provides critical data on self-reported COVID-19, chronic disease outcomes, and exposure to commercial nicotine products. Results from this unique Tribal community-driven study with a large sample size (N = 562 participants from 289 households) will help understand the role that environmental exposures played on increased COVID-19 mortality, help target public health interventions, and inform Tribal public health policies on emergency preparedness and exposure analyses.

An Empirical Study on the Major Problems Faced by Entrepreneurs with Special Reference to Micro and Small Enterprises Among the Tribals in Manipur

Micro and small businesses in rural and tribal communities are crucial drivers of sustainable economic development, playing a significant role in addressing various global challenges such as poverty reduction, job creation, resiliency and economic development. In spite of their crucial role in the national economy, small enterprises often encounter numerous challenges and constraints that can hinder their development, growth and overall performance. The present study is aimed at assessing the major problems faced by micro and small entrepreneurs among the tribal communities in the hill districts of Manipur. This empirical study is descriptive in nature and uses both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected from 311 registered entrepreneurs using a well-structured questionnaire. The percentage technique, mean, standard deviation, t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were used to analyse the data with the aid of SPSS. There is no significant difference in the major problems faced by entrepreneurs across gender. However, labour problems were different across levels of educational background, and there was a significant difference between the nature of industry and the infrastructural problems faced by micro and small entrepreneurs. The study suggests coordinating the efforts of the government and aiding organisations in assisting the entrepreneurs to tackle the multifaceted challenges.

The Myth of Rain in Wedding Ceremonies Jambak Tribe Community in Nagari Canduang Koto Laweh

This research discusses "The Myth of Rain in the Wedding Ceremony of the Jambak Tribe in Nagari Canduang Koto Laweh". The purpose of this research is to find out how the background of the formation of myths and describe the views of the community related to the myth of rain in the wedding ceremony of the Jambak tribe in Minangkabau. The theory used in this research is the theory of Levi-Strauss Structuralism. The method used is qualitative method, with data collection techniques of field observation, interviews and documentation. The results of this study show that the myth of rain in the marriage of the Jambak tribe in Minangkabau originated from stories passed from mouth to mouth. The arrogant nature of the Jambak tribe in ancient times who insulted an old man who came asking for a little food because he saw they were holding a wedding party. In the end, the insult given by the host to the grandfather received an oath which eventually became a myth in the midst of society. At this time the people of Nagari Canduang Koto Laweh still believe in the myth. However, for the people of Nagari Canduang Koto Laweh, this myth is only believed and becomes a knowledge and is not fully believed even though it did rain when the Jambak tribe had a wedding. The community believes that whatever happens on earth happens with the permission of Allah SWT despite the myth. As an oral tradition, the rain myth in the wedding ceremony of the Jambak tribe in Minangkabau certainly has a meaning contained in it such as symbolic meaning, family meaning and customary meaning.