Empowering Tribal Communities through Welfare Schemes: An Analysis of Economic Development in Melghat

Abstract

Purpose: The economic development of tribal communities has been a key focus of government policies in India. This study aims to examine the impact of government welfare schemes on the economic development of the tribal community in Melghat. It evaluates the effectiveness of various schemes, including education, healthcare, livelihood generation, and infrastructure development programs. Methodology: The research employs literature review method, utilizing data from government reports, field surveys, and scholarly literature. This approach helps in assessing the actual impact of welfare schemes while identifying existing gaps in their implementation. Findings: The study reveals that while several government schemes have significantly improved living conditions by enhancing education access, healthcare services, employment opportunities, and infrastructure, key challenges remain. Like, implementation gaps leading to inefficient execution, lack of awareness among beneficiaries about available schemes, and accessibility barriers due to bureaucratic hurdles and geographical isolation. Implications: The study provides policy recommendations to enhance the impact of welfare programs, like, improving awareness campaigns to ensure tribal communities fully utilize available schemes, strengthening monitoring mechanisms to address inefficiencies in fund allocation, and integrating technology for better service delivery and outreach. Originality: This research contributes to the existing literature by offering an updated and region-specific analysis of government welfare schemes in Melghat, a tribal-dominated region. By combining field data with policy evaluations, the study provides practical insights for policymakers, development agencies, and researchers seeking to improve tribal welfare programs.