Emerging Perspectives

5.2 Programme Perspectives

Based on the evaluation findings, RDS determined the focus areas for future intervention, aiming to incorporate a spiritual approach. Core programme initiatives are organized into two major issues:

Programme Initiatives

• Rights over Land, Water, and Forests; Livelihood and Food Security
• Identity and Social Exclusion

The primary focus groups include:

• Dalits (Scheduled Castes)
• Adivasis (Tribal)
• Minorities
• Women
• Children

Cross-Cutting Themes

• People's Action Forum's Engagement
• Gender Justice and Equality
• Advocacy, Lobbying, and Networking

These themes drive structural changes, establishing specialized desks to address them effectively.

5.2.a (i) Issue of Rights over Land, Water, and Forests, Livelihood, and Food Security

The tribal communities face numerous challenges, including dependence on forest resources, forest degradation, shifting occupations, and poor agriculture. Specific issues include:

• Forest Dependency - Tribal people rely on forests for sustenance but lack alternatives.
• Forest Degradation - Forest exploitation has eroded traditional tribal life.
• Occupational Shift - Many tribals have shifted to agriculture or daily wage labor.
• Poor Agriculture & Food Security - Rainfed, marginal lands hinder food security.
• Exploitative Production Relations - Tribal people face low wages and exploitative practices.
• Indebtedness & Land Alienation - Economic control by non-tribes has led to debt and land loss.
• Forced Migration - Economic pressures drive migration to urban areas for survival.
• Marginalization of Women - Women's critical role in the economy is undercut.
• Poor Health Services - Health services are limited, leading to high child mortality.
• Breakdown of Traditional Life Support - Forest exploitation undermines tribal culture and life.

Rights Under International and National Law

Article 23 and 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and various provisions of the Indian Constitution guarantee rights to livelihood, equality, and social protection. Yet, the marginalized communities continue to struggle against exploitation and poverty, leading to critical issues like hunger, migration, and marginalization.

RDS believes that fostering self-help initiatives, raising awareness about rights, and engaging in a People’s Participatory Rights-Based Approach will bring the necessary changes to improve the livelihoods of tribal and marginalized communities.