Population characteristics of desert ecology

India is a vast country, and its demographic diversity is striking. This is because of the dynamics of population components within and across states and regions. Populations (caste, communities and tribes) are influenced by the physical environment and by various biological, social, cultural and economic factors. Demographic indicators provide valuable information that forms the basis to assess the status of different states with respect to demographic transition. Keeping this in view, present study was conducted to investigate the population characteristics of Bhils of Barmer, a desert district of Rajasthan along with prevailing health seeking behavior. It has been found that Bhils are clearly lagging behind Indian National Population. Lack of empowerment to women, illiteracy, poor life style and financial status and lack of competitive economy has further added to their miseries. Lack of sturdy roads and transport facilities are indirectly affecting their overall growth. Never the less, a comparison with past studies on tribal health indicates that they are slowly but steadily progressing for a better future.

Autorentext

Gautam Kshatriya (M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Anth.) has wide experience in tribal health, tribal demography and population genetics, is currently Assoc. Prof. at Univ.of Delhi, India. Rajesh Gautam (M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Anth.) is a Lecturer in Sagar Univ., Madya Pradesh. Anup Kapoor (M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Anth.)is teaching as Prof. in Anthropology at Univ.of Delhi.