INSTITUTIONAL ROLE IN LIVELIHOOD GENERATION: A CASE OF MUNISING, ODISHA
Creators: name: Dwity Sundar Rout
name: Asha Parvin
name: Swati Suman
name: Ajay Kumar Prusty
name: Vishal Kumar Gupta
name: Atanu Deb
name: Preetha Bhadra
name: Avisweta Nandy
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2024
Subjects: Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), Social Network Analysis (SNA), Participatory Rural Appraisal (Pra), Livelihood Analysis, Rubber.

description: Abstract

This research paper examines the complex dynamics of livelihood transition in Gumma, a forested area of Odisha, India. The study specifically focuses on the Munising village. Over time, the indigenous communities of Gumma have experienced a substantial transition from conventional farming methods to the cultivation of rubber, driven by both governmental and non-governmental efforts. This shift not only modifies economic activity but also reconfigures the relationship between indigenous communities and their natural surroundings. Objectives of the study are: 1. Participatory Livelihood Analysis at Munising, 2. To understand the livelihood network and institutional role at Munising and 3. To trace out the problems, related to livelihoods at Munising. The study utilises a combination of Ex-post facto and Participatory Research methodologies, together with Social Network Analysis (SNA), to thoroughly investigate the livelihood networks in Munising. The research seeks to comprehend the historical progression of livelihood patterns and the current desires of community members. The indicated key livelihood options encompass Traditional Agriculture, Rubber Cultivation, Business, Livestock and Poultry, Incense Stick Making, Bamboo Crafting, MGNREGA, and Migrated Labours. The analysis demonstrates a chronological evolution from the gathering of food and hunting to the practice of agriculture, with rubber cultivation becoming as the prevailing choice of livelihood. The Rubber Board and Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) activities are crucial in promoting rubber farming and have proven to be beneficial in generating sustainable livelihoods. The study additionally introduces a Network Cloud of Livelihood Trends, which demonstrates the impact of social connections on the adoption of rubber cultivation. In addition, the research investigates the correlations between the size of farms, relationships with non-governmental organisations and government organisations, and the security of people's livelihoods. There is a favourable relationship between larger farm sizes and livelihood security. Additionally, involvement with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and government organisations improves access to information, which in turn leads to enhanced food security. Moreover, the study assesses the influence of organisations such as Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Christian Missionaries, NGOs, Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA), District Administration (DA), and Centurion University of Technology and Management (CUTM) on the livelihood network. ITDA and DA have become prominent influencers, thanks to government-backed efforts and intensive development programmes. This study offers significant insights into the development of livelihood patterns and the influence of social networks on the economic environment of Gumma. It contributes to the wider discussion on sustainable development and the overall welfare of the community.