Socio-Economic and Educational Conditions of the Kora Tribe: A Qualitative Review
Suprio Biswas
Assistant Professor, Education Department, Lalbaba college, Howrah
hellosuprio@gmail.com
Submitted on: 17.11.2025
Accepted on: 25.12.2025
Abstract: This research explores the educational accomplishments, demographics and socio-economic life stressors of Kora tribe members residing in the Bankura and Purulia districts (rural and drought-prone) of West Bengal using secondary qualitative data. The Kora tribe is a Scheduled Tribe situated primarily in rural areas that are far away from urban centers. As such, the Kora's social and economic problems are severe. Based on census information and documents collected from the Indian government, there is evidence of very low literacy levels among the Kora tribe (particularly among females); this is due primarily to poverty, early marriage and domestic duties, and parent(s) limited knowledge regarding education. In addition, obstacles to receiving appropriate education (e.g., inadequate physical facilities, inadequate number of teachers, and inability to communicate with teachers) severely limit Kora children's ability to participate in meaningful educational avenues.
Substandard housing, inadequate health care, limited employment opportunities, and inconsistent wages are all significant issues that contribute to the poor quality of life for many Kora families. Many Kora families migrate seasonally, resulting in low school attendance and high school dropout rates for children. Government initiatives (such as the Mid-Day Meal, Kanyashree and scholarships) have improved school attendance; however, school attendance benefits are still inconsistent across remote tribal communities. The Kora community has an established cultural identity that needs to be strengthened through inclusive education and community-based programmes. The research concludes that improving the Kora community will require co-ordinated activities in education, infrastructure, employment assistance and culturally appropriate policy development.
Key Words: Kora tribe, Bankura, Purulia, tribal education, socio-economic challenges, cultural identity, marginalised groups.