EMPOWERING KOYA (PVTG) WOMEN IN TELANGANA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

This paper explores the challenges and opportunities for empowering Koya women, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Telangana, India. Despite their essential roles in community cohesion and cultural preservation, Koya women face significant socio-economic barriers, including limited access to education, healthcare disparities, and economic disenfranchisement. The study analyzes key challenges such as low enrollment and high dropout rates among Koya girls, alarming maternal and infant mortality rates, and restricted economic participation due to prevailing patriarchal norms. However, it also highlights promising opportunities for empowerment through targeted government initiatives, including skill development programs and health services, as well as the vital role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in facilitating self-help groups (SHGs) and promoting awareness of women's rights. The research includes case studies showcasing successful initiatives that have improved educational outcomes and economic independence among Koya women. The findings emphasize the interconnected nature of these challenges and identify the need for collaborative approaches that integrate cultural sensitivity in policy-making. Ultimately, the paper advocates for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the specific needs of Koya women, fostering their agency and contributing to sustainable development within their communities. By investing in the empowerment of Koya women, society can cultivate a more equitable environment, harnessing the potential of this marginalized yet resilient group.