Demographic and Socio-Economic Analysis of the Birhor Community in Jharkhand

Abstract

This study examines the demographic, socio-economic, and cultural characteristics of the Birhor community, one of India's Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), located primarily in Jharkhand. The Birhor, whose traditional livelihoods are based on hunting and gathering, are increasingly vulnerable due to economic modernization, environmental degradation, and marginalization. Using demographic data from the 1941 census onward, along with literacy rates, sex ratios, and socio-economic indicators from the 2001 and 2011 census, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic landscape of the Birhor tribe. The study incorporates secondary sources on health, employment, and government welfare schemes, providing a multi-faceted view of the persistent challenges they face. The findings emphasize considerable disparities in education, gender equality, health outcomes, and economic participation. These disparities, combined with social isolation and limited access to essential resources, contribute to the continued underdevelopment of the Birhor people. The paper calls for targeted, sustainable interventions to support the long-term development of this marginalized group, with specific recommendations for education, healthcare, economic inclusion, and gender empowerment initiatives.