Comprehensive Analysis of the Asur Tribe of Jharkhand: A Multidisciplinary Perspective

The Asur tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Jharkhand, India, exemplifies the intersection of cultural resilience and socio-economic vulnerability. With a population of approximately 22,459 in Jharkhand (Census of India, 2011), their historical prominence as iron-smelters has waned under the pressures of modernization, mining, and land alienation. This paper employs a multidisciplinary framework—integrating anthropology, history, sociology, and economics—to examine their cultural practices, economic transitions, and contemporary challenges. Notable cultural traits, such as mourning during Dussehra and the use of the Asuri language, underscore their distinct identity, while poverty, illiteracy, and environmental degradation threaten their survival. The study advocates for culturally sensitive development policies to preserve their heritage and enhance their socio-economic status, contributing to broader discourse on indigenous rights and sustainability.