A Comparative Study of Socio-Economic Development in the Tribal Border Belt of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra

Abstract

The present study examines the socio-economic conditions of tribal households located in the tri-state border region of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. The primary objective of the research is to compare income levels, educational status, and health conditions among tribal communities living in geographically connected border areas. Despite several welfare initiatives, these regions continue to experience uneven development, raising the research problem of whether administrative boundaries influence socio-economic outcomes among culturally similar tribal populations. The study is based on primary data collected from 300 tribal households (100 from each state) through a structured interview schedule and field observation. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, grouped mean calculations, one-way ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis. The results show significant differences in household income across the three states, with Gujarat reporting the highest mean income (₹9,500), followed by Maharashtra (₹8,640) and Madhya Pradesh (₹8,000). The ANOVA results confirm that these differences are statistically significant. Regression analysis further indicates that education and access to healthcare services have a positive and significant influence on household income. The study concludes that socio-economic disparities persist across the tri-state border region despite shared cultural and geographic characteristics. Strengthening education and healthcare access, along with coordinated development policies across state borders, may help improve livelihood conditions and reduce poverty among tribal communities in this region.