Sabar People in Jhargram of West Bengal: Socio-Cultural and Digital Aspects of Tribal Livelihood

Vollständiger Abstract

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The Sabar community is one of the most marginalized and oppressed tribal groups in West Bengal. Historically stigmatized as a “Criminal Tribe” during British colonial rule, the Sabars continue to face social exclusion, economic deprivation, and cultural marginalization in contemporary society. Geographically, they are largely isolated, residing in difficult terrains close to forested areas, particularly in districts such as Jhargram. This physical isolation has reinforced their backward socio-economic condition and limited their access to education, healthcare, and other developmental opportunities. However, the modern digital boom has been leaving its mark on these people as well, through mediums such as social media.The Sabars are recognized as one of the poorest communities among the Scheduled Tribes. Within the community, issues such as malnutrition, high maternal mortality, low literacy rates, and a growing disconnect from formal education are distressingly common and often normalized as part of everyday life. Despite residing across several Indian states, including West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh, the Sabars remain far removed from the benefits of modern development.The Sabar people maintain a close and dependent relationship with nature, especially the forest, which plays a vital role in their livelihood, cultural practices, and daily survival. At the same time, they are presently influenced by their access to the digital medias in different ways, that do not always correspond to their traditional lifestyle. This study aims to provide a preliminary understanding of the socio-cultural and socio-economic status of the Sabar community in Jhargram district, including their access to internet-based activities and the extent of digital literacy, examine the significance of forest resources in their way of life, and identify the key challenges that hinder their overall progress and integration into mainstream society.