Koragas' Health: An insight into Tribal Health Care

Abstract

Koragas are a Primitive Tribe in Karnataka. Till late they were known as a "leftover food gathering” tribe, and also known as the ‘carrier of villagers' illness. For a long time they were subjected to slavery and now also they are doing menial jobs in villages and in cities. A lot of interest and care has been taken by the Government and Non Government Organizations to develop their human resource and raise their living conditions. This paper throws light on the health aspect of Korgas. Koragas in general, suffer from poor health conditions due to their poor diet, ignorance, superstitions, alcohol consumption, and unhygienic conditions of work. The health care programmes initiated by the government have not been benefiting them due to various reasons. However, the data collected by the researcher reveal that the programmes by the government, constant motivation by the Non Government Organizations and keen interest of the field workers are slowly beginning to show signs of progress. But, in the long run Koragas health will improve only through awareness and education.