INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD

Abstract: The socio-economic and cultural fabric of the tribal groups has been deeply affected by the process of globalization. It has created both opportunities and obstacles for women empowerment. The present study deals with the impact of globalization on women empowerment among tribal groups of Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra. The study is based on mixed methods research design. Primary data was collected from 300 indigenous women through structured surveys, interviews and focus group discussions while secondary data was collected from government papers, academic literature and policy documents. They measured different aspects of empowerment such as education, economic engagement, financial inclusion, healthcare access, digital literacy, political participation and decision-making within the household. The findings indicate that globalization has had a positive impact on women’s empowerment, through increased educational attainment, increased livelihood opportunities through self-help groups and entrepreneurship, increased access to banking and digital technologies, and increased awareness of government welfare schemes and legal rights. The study finds that while globalization has been a driver for the betterment of the socio-economic condition of indigenous women, the advantages are not evenly distributed. To make empowerment sustainable, there is a need for targeted policy interventions, improved infrastructure, digital inclusion, quality education, strengthened health care services, and culturally sensitive development strategies that preserve indigenous knowledge and traditions while promoting gender equality and inclusive growth among tribal communities.