Health, Nutrition, and Population trends of Scheduled Tribes (STs) from 2016 to 2021
A recent publish of ‘The Lancet’ provide a detailed analysis of the health, nutrition, and population trends of Scheduled Tribes (STs) from 2016 to 2021.
In report there are persistent disparities between the metrics of ST and non-ST populations, which demand urgent and consistent policy efforts.
The 2011 Census recorded over 104 million STs spread across 705 recognised ethnic groups.
STs, who make up 8.6% of India’s population, face health and socioeconomic challenges
The study offers an overview of the performance metrics for STs, non-STs, 129 health parameters in 2021.
In 2021, the non-ST population outperformed the ST population in 81 out of 129 indicators.
STs continued to face challenges Like,
Women’s status
Child malnutrition,
Anaemia,
insufficient vaccination coverage
Fertility and Mortality rates.
The 48 indicators on which STs surpassed non-STs include,
Overall gender balance
Gender balance at birth
Use of family planning methods
Consistent treatment during pregnancy
Adherence to recommended breastfeeding practices.
STs showed a reduced occurrence of diabetes and hypertension compared to non-STs.
Between 2016 and 2021, the ST population registered improvements in 83 of the selected 129 indicators.
STs experienced major improvements,
Sanitation facilities
More Births happened
Increase in skilled and healthy persons.
Full vaccination coverage among children.
Progress on various policy metrics concerning population, health, and nutrition hinges on the ability of its marginalized groups, with the STs being a significant segment.
Measures to be taken for Improvements
COMMENTS