Empowering Tribal Women: A Comprehensive Analysis of Socio-Educational Status of Gujjar and Bakerwal Women in Pir Panjal Range
Dr Sayantan Mandal, the co-principal investigator of the Tribal Project, along with Marve B Sofi and Sayari Mishra (PhD scholars of HSS, IIT Jammu), were responsible to examine and empirically understand the barriers to higher education and empowerment of Gujjar and Bakerwal women residing in the Pir Panjal Range of Jammu and Kashmir. These women encounter systemic discrimination, experience restricted access to education and healthcare and are constrained by gender roles. The main aim of this study is to gain insight into the socio-educational status and needs of these women while also identifying the primary obstacles contributing to their social, educational, and economic disadvantage. This study investigates the influence of cultural norms, gender inequality, and socio-economic factors on individuals’ lives, specifically examining issues such as restricted educational opportunities, limited access to healthcare services, disparities in technology usage, reduced political engagement, and diminished decision-making authority.
The study employed a mixed-method approach, incorporating interviews, focus groups, observations, and surveys to comprehensively comprehend the social dynamics, cultural practices, and gender roles within the project. The report presents a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at fostering sustainable and beneficial transformations within the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities. The primary objective of this initiative is to foster enduring transformation and make a valuable contribution to the broader academic conversation surrounding the rights of tribal women. The achievements of the project are anticipated to serve as a paradigm for forthcoming endeavours and foster broader societal change towards the promotion of gender equality and inclusive development.
The faculty members (Dr Sayantan Mandal) and researchers (Marve B Sofi and Sayari Mishra) at HSS, IIT Jammu, are committed to offering additional assistance in this matter when required.