Tribal women education in india opportunities and challenges

Abstract

Tribal’s or adivasis are concentrated mostly in the central belt of India and parts of the North-East. The sex ratio of the tribes in India during 1991 showed 971 females per 1000 males while it was 927 females among the general population. The status of any social group is determined by its levels of health nutrition, literacy, education and standard of living. Like other social group the tribal women constitute 50 percent of the population. Tribal women work harder in order to improve their economy. Role of women is not only of importance in economic activities, but her role in noneconomic activities is equally important. Health of the tribal women is more important. In tribal communities women are working hard and considered to be asset. Women continued to play a significant role. Poverty inflicts deep-rooted wounds on the psyche of individuals. Education imparts knowledge, knowledge of self and infuses a sense of confidence, courage and ability among the tribal women to know and overcome their problems associated with exploitation and to avail socio-economic and political opportunities extended to them. It has been recognized as a major instrument which societies can use to direct the process of change and development towards desired goals. The earliest period of independence has ushered in a new era in the field of women’s education in general and tribal women in particular in the country. In spite of the opportunities, extra initiatives and care by the government for tribal education, the achievement of tribal women education is not as per expectations due to several factors. Hence, problems associated with education of tribal women needs immediate attention and early resolution. Women play equal to men in productive activities. A large number of tribal women have missed education at different stages and in order to empower them there is a great need of providing opportunities so as to enable them to assume leadership qualities for economic self-reliance and even social transformation