• MST TANIA PARVEEN
• DR SURAJ TAMANG

The Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities of South 24 Parganas significantly contribute to the district's cultural, social, and demographic diversity. Rooted in a deep connection to their land and nature, these communities rely predominantly on agriculture for sustenance, shaped by the region's diverse geographical features such as rivers, marshes, and fertile fields. Their unique cultural identity is reflected through languages, traditions, kinship structures, and rituals that sustain their social cohesion and resilience amidst socioeconomic challenges. Festivals, traditional music, and dance are not merely celebratory but serve as mediums for cultural preservation and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Despite their vibrant cultural heritage, ST communities face several challenges, including limited access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Traditional beliefs and socioeconomic constraints further shape their health and well-being, underscoring the need for a holistic strategy that integrates traditional knowledge with modern approaches. By acknowledging the contributions of these communities, sustainable development efforts can be fostered to improve their quality of life while respecting their cultural identity. Inclusive policies and practices that balance tradition and progress are essential for empowering Scheduled Tribe communities to adapt and thrive in an evolving world while preserving their cultural legacy.

Scheduled Tribe, cultural heritage, socioeconomic challenges, kinship structures, sustainable development, education, traditional knowledge

"A Socioeconomic and Demographic overview of Scheduled Tribe Communities in South 24 Parganas", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 5, page no.j138-j151, May-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2505A15.pdf

"A Socioeconomic and Demographic overview of Scheduled Tribe Communities in South 24 Parganas", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 5, page no. ppj138-j151, May-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2505A15.pdf