31, January 2025

Oorukoottam as a Pillar of Social Integration Among the Kurichiya Tribes of Wayanad District

VOLUME-11; ISSUE-1; JAN-2025

Author(s): Dr. Biju P V

Authors Affiliations:

Ph.D Holder in Political Science, Director & CEO, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore Arts and Science College, Mathil, Payyannur, Kannur Dt., Kerala, India

DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202501019     |     Paper ID: IJIRMF202501019


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This article investigates into the long-standing marginalization of tribal communities, specifically the Kurichiya tribe in Kerala's Wayanad district, underscoring their struggle for socio-economic empowerment amidst the enduring influence of mainstream societal structures. Historically, tribal and lower caste communities have been confined to lower social strata, systematically excluded from legislative, administrative, judicial, and legal power structures. Despite constitutional provisions for the welfare of scheduled tribes, the effective implementation of these rights remains an indefinable goal, often thwarted by poverty, illiteracy, and external political influences. With the advent of Oorukoottam—an indigenous Gramasabha aimed at decentralizing governance and fostering tribal autonomy—the Kurichiya community embarked on a path toward greater self-determination and awareness of their rights. This participatory approach has urged progress in many areas of tribal life reflecting meaningful improvements in the quality of life for Kurichiya individuals. However, traditional norms in family decision-making persist, particularly among women who remain isolated from external societal influences, hinting at deeply entrenched cultural practices. This research advocates for policy interventions aiming to accelerate integration and foster sustainable development for the Kurichiya and other marginalized communities.

Oorukoottam- tribal gramasabha, Kurichiya tribe in Wayanad, participatory approach, quality of life.

Dr. Biju P V.(2025); Oorukoottam as a Pillar of Social Integration Among the Kurichiya Tribes of Wayanad District, International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-11, Issue-1, Pp.          Available on –   https://www.ijirmf.com/

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