Exploring the Socio-Economic Status of the Banjara Community in Karnataka

Abstract The Banjara community, a prominent nomadic tribal group in India, faces persistent socio-economic challenges despite policy-level efforts for inclusion. This study aims to assess the current socio-economic status of the Banjara community in Karnataka, with a focus on key indicators such as education, employment, income, housing, and healthcare access. It also explores the impact of traditional occupations and cultural practices on their economic sustainability and social identity. A structured questionnaire was administered to 384 respondents across selected districts in Karnataka. The demographic data revealed a relatively low literacy rate, high dependency on agriculture and manual labor, and limited income levels. The socio-economic profile indicated that a majority reside in semi-pucca or kutcha houses and primarily depend on government healthcare facilities. Findings also show that while a significant portion of the community values traditional occupations as integral to their identity, youth interest in continuing these practices is declining. Hypothesis testing revealed significant associations between education and income, gender and income, and involvement in traditional occupations with both cultural importance and economic returns. The results highlight the need for targeted development initiatives that address educational gaps, gender-based income disparities, and support for preserving cultural heritage in economically viable ways. This research contributes to a nuanced understanding of marginalized tribal communities and serves as a foundation for policymakers and social researchers to formulate inclusive strategies.