Medical Attention and Hospitalization Before Death Among Indigenous Population in India: Evidences from Latest Two Rounds of The National Sample Survey

Shatrughan Prasad, Assistant Professor

Indigenous populations are known by various names across different countries, such as Tribes in India, Shipibo in Peru, Bhotiya in Nepal, and the San (Bushmen) in Africa. India has the largest Indigenous population globally, with around 104 million people identified as "Scheduled Tribes," making up approximately 8.6% of the country's total population. These communities, totaling over 700 distinct groups, are spread across various states and regions in India, each possessing unique languages, cultures, and traditions. Indigenous communities often face significant health disparities, with lower levels of health status, challenges in accessing healthcare, and reduced healthcare-seeking behavior. This study found that Indigenous populations in India exhibit lower rates of medical care and hospitalization before death compared to other groups. Among elderly tribal groups, hospitalization rates are notably lower than those of the non-Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes (non-STs/SCs). The study aimed to examine medical attention, reasons for not receiving care, and hospitalization before death among these communities. Data from the 71st (2014) and 75th (2018) rounds of the National Sample Survey (NSS) on social consumption of health were used. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze patterns of medical attention and hospitalization before death among Indigenous populations in India.

Keywords: The Demography of Indigenous Populations, Population and Development, Health and Morbidity

See paper.