Socio Economic Condition of Tribal and Non Tribal Villages of Marigaon and Nagaon Districts of Assam

Abstract

This study aims at understanding the difference in the rate of economic development between tribal and non tribal villages by analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of developmental plans taken up for tribal development in the past. To ascertain imbalance, if any, and to have an understanding of development scenario in areas inhabited by tribal and non tribal people, villages with predominantly tribal and non tribal population of Nagaon and Marigaon were selected for the comparative study. Although in the post independent era several welfare schemes, development plan and programmes have been taken up by the Government, allegations are often made that the real benefits do not percolate to the needy. The unhappiness amongst the tribal people due to differences in development has many a times led to demand for tribal autonomy. In such an atmosphere it becomes imperative to study the underlying variance in socio economic development process between the tribal and non tribal population. This will enable the planners and administrators to chalk out need based pragmatic planning to rule out differences if any.