Household Livelihood and Coping Mechanism During Drought among Oraon Tribe of Sundargarh District of Orissa, India

The present study attempted to report the livelihood and coping strategies at the household level during drought among Oraon tribe living in Sundargarh district of Orissa. The study is based on both quantitative and qualitative data collected from households and key-informants in the community. These data were based on the livelihood and coping strategies during the drought and lean period during the year 2002. The scanty of rainfall due to irregular monsoon in the current Kharif crop season (2002) has resulted in massive crop failure and subsequent acute drought condition. During this period, the Oraons of this area have implemented a range of livelihood and coping strategies to reduce their vulnerability. The present study reports some rituals that followed by Oraons to appease, the Lord lndra (the god of rain). In addition, some social support system to cope up during drought also existed in this tribe. At household level, reduction of food consumption and change in the pattern of food consumption are important strategies to cope up with low resources. Majority of people in this area changed their occupation, as agriculture is failed due to drought. Also many households either sold or mortgaged their lands and household assets. Some of the people, including young children migrated temporarily to other places for livelihood. Various studies from other drought prone areas were reviewed and discussed briefly in the light of present study results.