Forest-Dwelling Rabha Community in Alipurduar, West Bengal: An Ethnographic Study

Abstract

This ethnographic study delves into the subsistence strategies and survival mechanisms of the Forest-Dwelling Rabha community in Alipurduar, West Bengal. It explores their traditional subsistence practices, the impact of modernization on these strategies, and the community's adaptation to changing socio-economic dynamics. Additionally, the study documents indigenous knowledge related to forest resources and management practices, analysing the sustainability of Rabha subsistence strategies and their implications for sustainable living. The study highlights the significance of gender roles in various subsistence activities, shedding light on the division of labour within the community.