Role of ‘Unexplored Bastar’ in Strengthening the Socioeconomic Status of Tribal Communities: A Case Study Approach
Rajkumar Das1, Vivek Nema2
1Rajkumar Das, Scholar, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, IGNTU, Amarkantak (M.P.) India.
2Vivek Nema, Scholar, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication IGNTU, Amarkantak (M.P.) India.
Manuscript received on 24 February 2025 | First Revised Manuscript received on 18 March 2025 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 18 May 2025 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 June 2025 | Manuscript published on 30 June 2025 | PP: 10-16 | Volume-4 Issue-4, June 2025 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijmcj.C116704030325 | DOI: 10.54105/ijmcj.C1167.04040625
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© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: A tribal community, an indigenous or aboriginal group, consists of people with common ancestry, cultural heritage, and often traditional lifestyles. These communities are distinguished by their unique social, linguistic, and cultural practices, setting them apart from mainstream society. Tribes typically have social structures, governance, and belief systems passed down through generations. In India, the socioeconomic status of tribal communities is influenced by historical marginalisation, geographic isolation, and contemporary challenges. These groups have historically faced discrimination, forced displacement, and exploitation, leading to a persistent socioeconomic gap. Their struggles are exacerbated by limited access to quality education, inadequate healthcare, and scarce employment opportunities. Traditional livelihoods, often linked to agriculture and forest-based activities, are becoming unsustainable due to environmental changes and modernization. Unexplored Bastar is a travel startup based on a social entrepreneurship model in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. It focuses on sustainable tourism through a community-based approach, promoting the natural and historical sites of Bastar and its rich tribal culture both within India and internationally. Currently, Unexplored Bastar positively impacts the lives of over 200 tribal youth in Bastar. APS has trained around 240 local tribal individuals in the tourism and hospitality sector to improve their employment prospects, including hosting tourists in their homes, serving as local guides, and selling handicrafts to visitors. These local communities are the primary service providers for Unexplored Bastar, which implements various grassroots innovations. They organize themselves into Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Chitrakote, Tirtha, Dantewada, Palnaar, Phoolpad, Dholkal, and Barsoor. Consequently, Unexplored Bastar has created numerous sustainable employment opportunities for local tribal youth. This research paper investigates the nuances of the socioeconomic impacts of the ‘Unexplored Bastar’ on the tribal community by exploring different activities and initiatives taken by the above-mentioned independent organization. Also, this case study will shed light on the future challenges and opportunities to grow and foster tribal communities in different regions.
Keywords: Tribal Community, Socioeconomic Development, Unexplored Bastar, Eco-Tourism.
Scope of the Article: Social Science