ABSTRACT:
Kabirdham district of Chhattisgarh is a forested, hilly, and geographically inaccessible region where a large population of the Baiga tribe resides. The Government of India has recognized the Baiga tribe as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). This community primarily depends on forest-based livelihoods, traditional agriculture, collection of minor forest produce, and a traditional way of life. The objective of this study is to examine the prevalence of malaria among the Baiga tribe and to study their treatment practices. The present research is based on Bodla Development Block of Kabirdham district in the state of Chhattisgarh, as it is a Baiga tribe-dominated area. The study is based on primary data. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed for data collection, including semi-structured interview schedules, focus group discussions, and non-participant observation techniques. Due to geographical remoteness, poverty, low educational status, limited healthcare facilities, and traditional beliefs, infectious diseases are relatively more prevalent among the Baiga tribe. Among these diseases, malaria has emerged as a serious public health problem for the community. The study found that both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax malaria are prevalent in the Bodla Development Block of Kabirdham district. From the perspective of treatment practices, both traditional and modern medical systems are utilized by the Baiga tribe; however, traditional healing practices remain widely prevalent.
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