International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 3 (May-June 2025) Submit your research before last 3 days of June to publish your research paper in the issue of May-June.

A Study on Financial Inclusion Among Scheduled Tribes in Kerala

Author(s) Swathy V Chandran
Country India
Abstract Financial inclusion is a critical aspect of economic development, particularly for marginalized communities such as Scheduled Tribes in Kerala. This study examines the levels of financial inclusion among three key districts in Kerala—Wayanad, Idukki, and Thrissur—focusing on specific tribal subgroups: Paniyan, Kurichyan, Kuruman, Mala Arayan, Muduvan, Mannan, Malayan, Kadar, and Ullatan. By exploring awareness of financial products, comfort with digital banking, satisfaction with financial services, and financial management practices, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of the barriers and enablers of financial inclusion for these communities.
A structured questionnaire was employed to gather data from 120 respondents across the three districts. The analysis revealed significant disparities in financial inclusion levels among tribal groups. Groups such as Paniyan in Wayanad, Mala Arayan in Idukki, and Malayan in Thrissur displayed low financial inclusion, citing limited awareness, technological barriers, and lack of access to financial education programs. Conversely, groups such as Kuruman in Wayanad, Mannan in Idukki, and Ullatan in Thrissur exhibited high levels of inclusion, attributed to better access to financial services, higher awareness, and proactive financial management practices.
The study underscores the need for targeted interventions, including awareness campaigns, financial literacy programs, and infrastructure development, to address the specific challenges faced by low-inclusion groups. By identifying the gaps and strengths in financial inclusion across districts and subgroups, this research provides actionable insights for policymakers and financial institutions to foster equitable economic growth for Kerala’s tribal communities.
Keywords Financial Inclusion, Scheduled Tribes of Kerala, Financial Literacy, Tribal Subgroups
Field Arts
Published In Volume 7, Issue 3, May-June 2025
Published On 2025-06-04
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i03.33245
Short DOI https://doi.org/g9m7ks

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