Evaluating the Impact of Health schemes on the socio-economic well-being of forest dwellers in Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) areas – An Empirical Study from the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The socio-economic well-being of tribal communities in India, particularly those residing in forested regions, has been a persistent challenge for policymakers. This study evaluates the impact of health schemes implemented by the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) on the socio-economic well-being of forest dwellers in the East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Through a combination of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, the study examines the role of various demographic, socio-economic, and geographic factors in determining the accessibility, utilization, and effectiveness of these health schemes. The findings reveal that while gender and marital status do not significantly influence the effectiveness of health schemes, other factors such as age, education level, occupation, household income, number of dependents, and proximity to healthcare facilities are crucial in determining their success. The study identifies several challenges that hinder the effectiveness of these schemes, including financial constraints, occupational demands, and geographical isolation. To enhance the socio-economic well-being of forest dwellers, the study recommends tailoring health schemes to address these specific barriers, such as by implementing targeted health education programs, providing subsidized healthcare for low-income families, and improving access to healthcare in remote areas through mobile units or additional healthcare centers. These targeted interventions are essential for ensuring that all community members have equitable access to the healthcare services they need, ultimately improving their socio-economic status and quality of life.