Self-Image and Development Perspectives

This book is essentially based on empirical research among the Koyas, a tribal community in eastern India, inhabiting Malkangiri district of Orissa. The study throws light on their self-image (identity), habitat, economy and society, ethnographic context, etc. enabling the readers to comprehend the post-independence development intervention affecting their lifestyle. It may be reiterated that any development effort necessitates thorough understanding of the social structure of a community. Since kinship nexus occupies a pivotal position in the social structure, it has been discussed meticulously. The broad chapterisation of the book is as follows: 1. Introduction 2. Kinship, Ethnicity and Self-image 3. Koya: Ethnographic Context 4. Marriage Among the Koyas 5. Family 6. Lineage and Clan 7. Kinship System Among the Koyas 8. Property and Important Economic Activities 9. Life Cycle Rituals 10. Tribal Society in the Context of Development Intervention