Resilient Roots: Exploring the Role of Indigenous Women in Sustainable Rural Development in South Asia

Abstract

Introduction: Indigenous women in South Asia are vital for sustainable rural development however are less heard in academic literature and policy narratives. Their traditional knowledge, economic engagement and leadership is crucial for conservation and community resilience.

Objective: This research investigated the multivalent roles of indigenous women in rural sustainability, including their social and cultural, ecological, and economic contributions in marginalized village settings in South Asia.

Method: A qualitative research design was adopted with purposive sampling. Information was collected via in-depth interviews and focus group discussions among 30 indigenous women in rural settings in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. A thematic analysis was employed to detect the reoccurring patterns about sustainability measures, economic functions, leadership, and socio- political barriers.

Results: Six major themes were identified: ecological stewardship, economic resilience, leadership and governance, environmental vulnerability, systemic obstacles, and cultural preservation. There was a high level of participant interest in sustainable agriculture, natural resource protection, and climate adaptation. Women also supported local economies through small business and cooperative enterprises. But, the long-term barriers they continued to confront were restricted entry into education and lack of access to decision-making. In spite of these obstacles, numerous women held powerful community leadership roles and contradicted prevailing tales of powerlessness.

Conclusion: The central role of indigenous women in sustainable rural development in South Asia. Their rooted knowledge and economic systems and their adaptive leadership contain viable responses to rural issues of sustainability. Indeed, the processes are to be re-designed and re-structured so that the indigenous women's viewpoints are acknowledged and incorporated into the planning process.