Empowerment of Schedule Tribal Women through Mass Media: A Case Study of Raichur district, Karnataka

This study examines the role of mass media in empowering women belonging to Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Raichur district, Karnataka. Using a mixed‑methods approach, the research combines a survey of 100 ST women with interviews and focus‑group discussions to assess changes in awareness, self‑esteem, decision‑making power, and participation in socio‑economic activities attributable to exposure to television, radio, and digital platforms. Findings reveal that regular engagement with development‑oriented programmes significantly enhances knowledge about government schemes, health, and legal rights, leading to higher rates of enrolment in education and increased participation in local governance. However, barriers such as limited infrastructure, language constraints, and patriarchal norms persist, moderating the media’s impact. The paper argues for tailored media content that resonates with the cultural context of ST communities and calls for stronger synergies between media houses, NGOs, and local authorities to amplify empowerment outcomes.