Socio-economic status of marking nut decorticators in Washim District

Abstract

This study examines the socio-economic status of marking nut decorticators tribal from twelve villages of Malegaon tehsil, Dist: Washim, Maharashtra. The research focuses on the living conditions, employment patterns, health challenges, and income levels of individuals involved in this occupation. Through interviews with 120 respondents, it was observed that the majority (60.83%) belonged to the lower socio-economic category. Results indicated that all 120 workers were women (100%), predominantly illiterate (34.16%), with low income upto 58,000/- Rs. and small landholdings (1.01 to 2 Ha). The occupational hazards include physical strain and health issues such as back pain, neck pain as reported by almost all the respondent i.e 100 per cent . Improving access to education, healthcare, and better working conditions are necessary to uplift this marginalized group.