Prospects and challenges in the empowerment of Nat tribal women in India

Society's gender structures deeply affect socioeconomic mobility and well-being, particularly for tribal women. Despite playing vital roles in their communities' social, cultural, and economic life, these women continue to face systemic barriers that limit their empowerment. This study explores the lives of Natanis, a vulnerable group of women from the Nat tribe in India. Through qualitative research, the intersection of gender, ethnicity, and various social, economic, political, and historical factors that shape their empowerment was examined. Two hundred Natanis were interviewed across eleven districts of Chhattisgarh, India. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also conducted to triangulate the data. The study finds that, prior to colonization, the Natanis had a comparatively strong socioeconomic position. They made significant contributions to the traditional livelihoods (acrobatic and entertaining performances). However, colonial stigmatization, post-colonial narratives, and the changing socio-economic dynamics have created strict gendered spaces that have impacted the once-emancipated Natanis. Patriarchal control over their mobility and choices regarding access to education, health, and other essential infrastructure manifests in the form of unequal power dynamics, gender-based violence, limited agency, and devaluation of traditional femininity. Therefore, interventions that account for the intersection of gender and ethnicity, as well as historical and contemporary socioeconomic factors, are critical for improving the well-being of the Natanis and advancing outcome-based empowerment. • The colonial criminalization of the Nats, restricts their access to socio-economic opportunities and political representation. • It is observed that the associated processes exacerbate gender inequality and disempowerment. • Comprehensive initiatives are critical to break the cycles of poverty and marginalization experienced by the Natanis. • Natanis empowerment is essential as it promotes individual well-being and promote community resilience.