The impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Indigenous People of Tamilnadu – A Medical Anthropological Perspective

The Indigenous people are culturally unique and they are into many ethno-medicinal practices. There are about 36 indigenous people (Scheduled Tribes) are living in the State of Tamilnadu, India. These people were also seasonally migrating to various places for the jobs. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a great impact on their livelihoods and also on their health. These communities are more vulnerable and the impact of COVID-19 on these communities is under-addressed. The Indigenous communities require a prime attention and more need for awareness on the COVID-19 pandemic. The Elderly population of the Indigenous communities are having traditional knowledge systems and healing practices. The practice of herbal medicine, naturopathy and spiritual healing are preferred by them. Lack of emotional content and belief in public healthcare system continues to distance them from modern medicinal systems. The indigenous communities are generally suffering from diseases like tuberculosis, hyper tension, diabetes mellitus, cardio vascular diseases and sickle cell anemia. These conditions are weakening their immune system and increase their vulnerability towards COVID-19. The prevalence of anemia and malnutrition makes the women and children also lower the resistance towards the COVID-19. The study trying to identify the special strategies to safe guard the Indigenous communities from a medial anthropological perspective through case studies using grounded theory method.