30, November 2025
Economic Transformation of the Kurichiya Tribe in Wayanad: Assessing the Impact of Oorukoottam
Author(s): Dr. Biju P V
Authors Affiliations:
Principal, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore Arts and Science College, Mathil, Payyannur, Kannur Dt., Kerala, India.
DOIs:10.2017/IJRCS/202511018 | Paper ID: IJRCS202511018Abstract
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Abstract: This study investigates the influence of Oorukoottam, a community-based decision-making and governance institution, on the economic quality of life of the Kurichiya tribal community in Wayanad, Kerala. The Kurichiya, traditionally dependent on cooperative agriculture, hunting, and forest-based subsistence activities, have experienced socio-economic transitions in recent decades. With the introduction of Oorukoottam, their participation in welfare schemes, financial services, and livelihood opportunities has expanded. The results indicate a significant improvement in income sources, access to modern household facilities, awareness of forest rights, and financial inclusion after Oorukoottam. Occupation was found to be the only demographic factor significantly influencing economic improvement. However, limited progress was observed in areas such as drinking water, sanitation, and digital access. The study concludes that Oorukoottam has enhanced economic well-being and self-reliance among the Kurichiya, while recommending further interventions in education, infrastructure, and digital inclusion to ensure sustained and holistic development.
Keywords: Kurichiya tribe, Oorukoottam, economic quality of life, tribal livelihood, cooperative agriculture.
Dr. Biju P V (2025); Economic Transformation of the Kurichiya Tribe in Wayanad: Assessing the Impact of Oorukoottam, International Journal of Research Culture Society, ISSN(O): 2456-6683, Volume – 9, Issue – 11, Pp.112-119. Available on – https://ijrcs.org/