Abstract Book of the 14th International Conference on Research in Behavioral and Social Sciences
Year: 2026
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Access to Clean Energy, Basic Amenities Services and Socio- Economic Wellbeing of Tribal Women in Odisha: A District Level Analysis
Munmun Mohapatra, Atasi Mohanty, Bhagirath Behera
ABSTRACT:
Tribal population of Odisha predominantly resides in remote, hilly, and forested regions, where their livelihoods are intricately linked to forests and other common pool resources. Within these communities, women play a central role in both household management and livelihood sustenance. They are primarily responsible for procuring essential resources such as energy, water, food, and fibre often from considerable distances, devoting a substantial portion of their time. The reliance on traditional energy sources, including firewood and kerosene for cooking and lighting, has been shown to adversely affect women’s health and overall wellbeing. In recent years, however, the adoption of renewable energy technologies, has expanded significantly across Odisha, creating new avenues for enhancing livelihoods and improving living standards. Against this backdrop, the present study examines the trends and patterns in tribal women’s access to energy and basic amenities, alongside their corresponding socioeconomic conditions across the districts of Odisha. The analysis draws secondary data from government sources, including National Family Health Survey (NFHS), Census of India, and district statistical handbooks. A district-level analysis employing descriptive statistical techniques is undertaken to depict the emerging patterns and trends. The findings are presented through graphical and tabular representations to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the study.
Keywords: Renewable Energy, Basic Amenities, Tribal Population, Gender, Odisha