This report highlights the challenges faced by the tribes of India, who are the most marginalized and vulnerable group in terms of social and economic status, as well as health. Despite India’s progress as the world’s fifth-largest economy, disparities and social inequality persist, particularly among tribal populations. It emphasizes the need for good quality and real-time data on the health conditions of tribes to inform policy and strategy. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) plays a crucial role in conducting research among tribal populations, and this special issue of the Indian Journal of Medical Research (IJMR) showcases the research being carried out in this field.
The special issue covers a wide range of tribal health research areas, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health and nutrition, and hemoglobinopathies. It also highlights the poor state of healthcare services in tribal areas, attributed to low per capita expenditure on health, lack of health technologies and medicines, and a limited health workforce. There is a need for the transformation of the health system in tribal areas, with greater investments in healthcare infrastructure, quality improvement, and access to services.
Over the next 25 years, the government must take actions to improve tribal health, including strengthening the health system, investing in research and development infrastructure, harnessing science and technology, documenting best practices, and empowering and engaging tribal communities in planning and implementing programs. It emphasizes the importance of involving tribal experts and community members in decision-making processes. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve inclusive and sustainable development, where no one is left behind, and the tribal populations of India can contribute to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
