Exploration of Variables Predicting Livelihood Assets Status of Tribal Communities Subsisting in Forests of Jharkhand, India

The study examined the predictive variables of livelihood assets (physical, natural, financial, human and social capital) status of tribal communities (Munda, Oraon and Lohara) subsisting in forests in Bundu block of Ranchi district in Jharkhand. Multi-stage sampling was employed in selecting 9 sample villages and 164 representative households for field study conducted through structured interviews and personal observations. The correlation analysis revealed that out of twenty two socio-personal, economic, psychological, communication and situational independent variables, twenty attributes had exhibited positive and significant correlation with the livelihood assets status, whereas, the migration status was found negatively and significantly associated with the livelihood assets status and there was non-significant relationship between age and the livelihood assets status. The regression analysis indicated that all the independent variables of the tribal people put together had contributed to 71.30% (R2 = 0.713) variation on the livelihood assets status. Further, among these variables, only level of aspiration exerted positive and significant contribution on livelihood assets status. The path analysis revealed that the social participation, level of aspiration and gross annual income were the crucial variables for livelihood assets status. To make livelihoods of tribal people stronger and sustainable, the contributor variables of livelihood assets status must be improved to accelerate the forest resources based livelihood diversifications, promotion and development.