Agricultural Disparities among Tribal Communities in Telangana: Causes and Consequences

Agriculture remains the principal source of livelihood in rural India, with over half of the population dependent on it. Among tribal communities, who traditionally practiced hunting and food gathering, there has been a historical transition to shifting cultivation and eventually to settled agriculture. Today, agriculture constitutes the primary livelihood for most tribal groups. In Telangana, where diverse tribal communities such as the Lambadi, Gond, Koya, Kolam and Chenchu reside, agriculture continues to be central to their sustenance. However, these communities experience unequal access to agricultural resources, leading to disparities in livelihood outcomes.

This study investigates the nature and extent of disparities in agricultural practices among tribal communities in Telangana, as well as the underlying causes and socio-economic consequences of these disparities. The research is based on primary data collected from five tribal communities through a mixed-methods approach. Data was gathered from 400 surveyed households, 10 focus group discussions (FGDs) and several key informant interviews conducted across selected tribal regions.

The study reveals substantial inter-community disparities in agricultural access, practices and outcomes. These disparities are driven by factors such as landholding patterns, irrigation access, government scheme implementation and socio-political marginalization. The consequences include rising indebtedness, distress-driven land sales and an increasing shift toward alternative and migratory livelihoods. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to address structural inequalities and enhance agricultural sustainability for tribal populations.