From Margins to Mainstream: The Impact of the India Eco-Development Project on Tribal Well-Being in Kumily, Idukki

The study examines the impact of the India Eco-development Project (IEDP) on the tribal communities in Kumily, Idukki. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. Significant improvements in physical infrastructure, such as housing, sanitation, and road access, were noted. However, social infrastructure development was mixed. While the IEDP fostered community participation and empowerment through the establishment of Ecodevelopment Committees (EDCs), persistent challenges remain, particularly concerning gender roles, education, and healthcare access. Although healthcare facilities have improved and infant mortality rates have declined, serious illnesses still necessitate long-distance travel to hospitals, and issues like alcohol abuse among youth remain prevalent. While the project supported women's empowerment initiatives, empowerment levels varied, with some women assuming greater responsibilities and others remaining constrained by traditional roles. These findings highlight the need for integrated public policies that address both physical and social infrastructure to achieve truly sustainable and inclusive development outcomes in protected area communities.