Report on Overlooked and Overburdened
Report on Overlooked and Overburdened
Socio-Economic Conditions and Livelihood Transitions of Women from De-Notified Tribes, Nomadic Tribes and Semi-Nomadic Tribes
This report presents evidence on women whose lives remain shaped by historical stigma, economic insecurity and institutional exclusion. Commissioned by the National Commission for Women, the research was undertaken and submitted by ActionAid Association. Drawing on a study of 3,000 women across Haryana, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh, the report combines quantitative findings with women’s accounts to examine their socio-economic conditions, changing livelihoods, and access to rights and entitlements.
Women from De-Notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic communities face interconnected disadvantages rooted in historical criminalisation, discrimination and gender inequality. Landlessness and declining traditional occupations push women into insecure work, while inadequate housing, services and education deepen deprivation.
The report shows that identity documents do not consistently secure welfare benefits. Certification barriers, eligibility errors and administrative discretion impose repeated costs and uncertainty. Community profiles underline the need for policies responsive to settlement patterns, occupations and seasonal mobility.
Political inclusion remains limited: voting does not necessarily ensure representation or influence over public decisions. Stronger women’s collectives are essential to advancing accountability and participation.
Recommendations include national recognition, gender-disaggregated data, stronger representation, review of discriminatory laws, portable benefits and accessible grievance mechanisms. States should fund coordinated improvements in tenure, housing, services, education, healthcare and livelihoods. Guided by women’s leadership, action must translate formal recognition into substantive rights, dignity, security and equal citizenship for all women.
