Title: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIOECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS AND ASPIRATIONS FOR SELF-RELIANCE AMONG TRIBAL FARM WOMEN

Authors: Nirali H. Usadadiya, J. B. Patel and Pinakin C. Patel

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: aspirations, self-reliance, tribal farm women and socio-personal characteristics

Volume: 40

Issue: 1

Year: December 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2025.40.1.0017

Abstract: The present study aimed to examine the relationship between socio-personal characteristics of tribal farm women and their aspirations for self-reliance in Middle Gujarat. The investigation was carried out in four tribal-dominated districts: Dahod, Panchmahals, Chhotaudepur, and Mahisagar. A multistage, purposive, and random sampling technique was employed, resulting in a total sample size of 240 respondents from twenty-four selected villages. The data were collected using a structured and pre-tested interview schedule, and analyzed using percentages and correlation coefficients. Eighteen independent variables were studied, including age, education, farming experience, social media utilization, social participation, family type, occupation, income, material possession, extension participation, information-seeking behavior, scientific orientation, economic motivation, credit orientation, attitudes towards agriculture and allied sectors, self-confidence, and decision-making ability. The findings revealed that ten variables-such as education, farming experience, social media use, occupation, material possession, extension participation, information-seeking behavior, scientific orientation, credit orientation, and attitude towards agriculture-had a positive and significant relationship with aspirations for self-reliance. Furthermore, variables like type of family, economic motivation, attitude towards allied sectors, self-confidence, and decision-making ability demonstrated highly significant correlations, emphasizing their strong influence on the empowerment of tribal women. In contrast, age, social participation, and family income showed no significant correlation, suggesting limited impact on aspirational outcomes. These insights underscore the importance of promoting educational opportunities, digital access, and resource empowerment to enhance self-reliance among tribal farm women, thereby contributing to sustainable and inclusive rural development.