North Bengal Anthropologist
Permanent URI for this communityhttps://ir.nbu.ac.in/handle/123456789/5276
The special focus of the department of anthropology is to examine and analyze the regional and local issues of greater anthropological significance. The department has an innovative plan to develop interdisciplinary interaction for strengthening its teaching and research programmes. Participatory approach and Lab to Land method has been adopted to develop the teaching and research activities of the department. The thrust areas of the department are human nutrition, forensic anthropology, ethnomedicine, medical anthropology, developmental anthropology and tribal development.
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Item Open Access Assessment of nutritional status in respect of Anthropometric Profile among the Indigenous Santal children of Santuri Block, Purulia, West Bengal(University of North Bengal, 2024) Mahato, Aparna; Mitra, MaitrayeeBackground: The prevalence of undernutrition is higher among the tribal population with respect to all anthropometric measures. The prevalence is twice as high among the economically indigent families. The situation is worse among the girl children. Santals are predominantly distributed in different parts of West Bengal. Therefore, the present cross-sectional study aimed to assess age and sex variation in nutritional status with respect to anthropometric profile among the Santal primary school-going children aged 5 to 9 years of Santuri block, Purulia, West Bengal. Materials and methods: A total of 200 children (58 boys and 142 girls) were included. Height, weight and body mass index of the children were converted into age-specific Z-scores. Under- (stunting, underweight and thinness) and over-nutrition (overweight and obesity) based on age and sex-specific Z-score were assessed as per the criteria of WHO, 2003. Results: The majority of the children were found with normal HAZ, WAZ and BMIZ. Prevalence of under-nutrition (3% stunting, 0.5% underweight and 1% thinness) and over-nutrition was very low. It is noteworthy that the prevalence of both under- and over-nutrition is higher among girls than boys; all the over-nourished children were girls. Conclusion: The population is mostly normal in nutritional status. Effective measures should be taken to eradicate the existence of malnutrition with a special focus on girls.Item Open Access The Asur: A Study in North Bengal Areas(University of North Bengal, 2024) Das, Sutapa; Biswas, Samar KumarAsur, primarily an ethnographic stock is said to be the descendant of the Vedic Asura. Evidence proves that the Vedic struggle drove the Asur from the Indus Valley. From the Indus Valley, the Asur moved towards the northwest and settled down at Chota Nagpur. They started residing Gumla, Latehar, Lohardaga, Ranchi and Palamau districts of Jharkhand. The Asur of the Indus Valley Civilisation were iron smelters and many ancient metal relics have been discovered from various Asur sites in Ranchi district. The implementation of the Forest Conservation Policy by the Government and the introduction of the latest metallurgy techniques have given death blows to the industry of iron smelting by the primitive Asur. They have shifted towards cultivation, hunting, collection of forest products, rearing of animals etc. For the purpose of establishing of tea estate in North Bengal, the East India Company brought the Asur people with other tribes to different areas of Alipurduar, Coochbehar and Jalpaiguri districts. Since then, they had to change their livelihood and become tea garden labourers. This nomadic group was much exploited during the colonial period and is still suffering in the post-colonial period. The Asur, who are facing the brunt of government neglect, are forced to live a life of poverty, illiteracy and backwardness. The Asur society in India is designated as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group in Bihar, but they are not granted the same status in West Bengal, putting their survival at risk. The study found that they are still lagging behind other tribal communities in respect of education, health and economy. Initiatives must be taken to preserve the ethnic culture of this legendary tribe at the administrative level as well as at the research level.Item Open Access Harmony in History: Unveiling the History of Women Tea Plantations Workers Through Jhumur Songs(University of North Bengal, 2024) Bhowmik, Nandini; Biswas, Samar KumarThis paper explores the cultural significance of jhumur songs within the context of colonial Assam's tea plantation communities. Jhumur, originating from the Sadanic language, serves as a vital narrative tool reflecting the experiences and struggles of tea plantation workers, particularly women. Through an analysis of jhumur songs and historical sources, the paper reveals the deceptive strategies employed by the British government and plantation owners to recruit and exploit labourers. Specific examples of jhumur songs are examined to illustrate themes of migration, exploitation and cultural resistance. The paper introduces two theoretical frameworks— the "Migration-Exploitation-Strategies Nexus" and the "Model of Colonial Hegemony and Cultural Resistance" to analyse the socio-cultural dynamics at play. Ultimately, this study highlights the enduring resilience and cultural identity embedded within colonial Assam's tea plantation communities as evidenced by the poignant narratives preserved in jhumur song.Item Open Access A Study of Evolving Marriage Traditions among Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir(University of North Bengal, 2024) Maroof, Shabir Mir; Biswas, Samar KumarThis article explores the multifaceted nature of marriage traditions among Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir, examining their evolution from historical roots to contemporary dynamics. It explores the interplay of tradition, modernity, and identity in shaping matrimonial practices within this culturally rich and diverse region. Drawing on historical analysis and contemporary research, the study traces the historical trajectory of marriage customs in Jammu and Kashmir, stressing the fusion of indigenous traditions with Islamic principles following the region's conversion to Islam in the 14th century. It highlights the adaptive nature of marriage traditions, which have evolved in response to socio-cultural dynamics, including urbanization, globalization, and conflict. Through qualitative research methods such as purposive selection, participant observation and thematic analysis, the study engages with recently married individuals from diverse backgrounds to capture nuanced insights into contemporary marriage practices. It examines shifting trends in mate selection, with a growing preference for love marriages driven by increased educational attainment and autonomy among individuals, as well as the influence of globalization on inter-regional and transnational marriages.Item Open Access A Study of Utilisation of Healthcare Services by Women Belonging to the Reproductive Age Group in Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal(University of North Bengal, 2024) Banerjee, Amrita; Majumder, Amlan; Roy Mukherjee, SanchariThe healthcare utilisation behaviour theory pertains to the various reactions individuals exhibit in response to states of poor health. If an individual desires good health, then demand for healthcare services increases, in other words, utilisation of healthcare services increases. The study examines healthcare utilisation among rural women in Jalpaiguri district, considering their socioeconomic and demographic characteristics. The analysis is based on a sample of 627 women covering 406 households. The study shows that out of 958 illness episodes in the Jalpaiguri district, 70.56 per cent (676 episodes) of women utilised at least one healthcare facility, while 29.43 per cent (282 episodes) did not seek any healthcare during the twelve-month reference period. The majority of women in the district preferred modern healthcare facilities, with traditional approaches being used for a limited number of illness episodes.Item Open Access A Comprehensive Illustration of Water Pollution Being a Pitfall of Human Activities(University of North Bengal, 2024) Biswas, Samar Kumar; Dutta, TanushreeWater is one of the prime utilized environmental resources that is currently under threat for its quality and continued existence. Pollution has a significant influence on this matter of concern. The existence of impurities in water that change its chemical and biological composition is referred to as water pollution i.e. a major threat to symbiosis between human beings and the environment. Due to its multipurpose use, the sources of water contamination must be varied. Thus, in order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the pertinent inclusive circumstances and responsible causes of water pollution, laboratory tests have been performed on water samples to identify any pollution. Additionally, three distinct sites on the bank of the Mahananda River in Siliguri City have been chosen and relevant information regarding the genesis of water pollution has been gathered. The current study investigates the many causes of water contamination with proper analytical descriptions in Siliguri City as well as people's perspectives on the sources from a social standpoint.Item Open Access A Comparative Analysis of Rabha Society's Socio-Economic Landscape amongst Males and Females: Insights from a Household Survey(University of North Bengal, 2024) Sarkar, Samar Kumar; Rabha, RumaThis study addresses a critical gap in existing literature on the Rabha people by conducting a comparative analysis between male and female members. Sixty Rabha households were surveyed ensuring an equal distribution of 30 male and 30 female respondents. The data collection process utilized a survey schedule to gather comprehensive information. The survey covered four forest villages namely MelaBasti and Mangolkata in Salbari 1 gram panchayat, located in Banarhat block, and KhuklungBasti and Gossaihat in Jharaltagram 2, situated in Dhupguri block of Jalpaiguri District. This study explores socio-economic aspects and reveals differences in employment, education, and traditional practices between males and females emphasizing the need for targeted initiatives to improve opportunities for Rabha women. This study highlights a significant disparity in literacy levels, particularly among illiterate individuals aged 40 to 70, where approximately 82% are females. While males slightly outnumber females (53% to 47%) at the below secondary level, this gap widens at the secondary and higher secondary levels, with males constituting 57% compared to females at 43%, indicating a higher literacy status among male respondents. Interestingly, both male and female respondents in the youngest age group (20 to 30 years) are actively pursuing higher studies, suggesting a potential shift towards improved educational opportunities for younger generations. The study highlights the occupational dynamics within the Rabha community, revealing distinct patterns between male and female respondents. Male participants predominantly engage in farming, Government service and businesses, with minimal involvement in fishing activities, indicating potential cultural and societal influences on occupational choices. A significant portion (33%) of female respondents are homemakers, reflecting the community's emphasis on family and community life. Keywords:Item Open Access Exotic Food and Beverages of the Limbus in the Himalayas and Sub-Himalayan Region(University of North Bengal, 2024) Biswas, Samar Kumar; Sharma, GauravThe diverse and intriguing world of exotic food and beverages within the Limbu community, an indigenous group, of the Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan regions boast a rich culinary heritage deeply entwined with their cultural roots and local ecosystems. From fermented soybean delicacies like Kinema to various traditional dishes, the article delves into the unique flavours and preparation methods that define Limbu cuisine. Additionally, traditional beverages like Tongba and Jaar add a distinctive touch to the exploration of this culinary landscape. The discussion extends to the broader context of preserving and celebrating indigenous food traditions in the face of modern influences. Through this exploration, readers gain insights into the exotic gastronomic treasures of the Limbu people, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation and appreciation in the realm of diverse global cuisines.Item Open Access Utility of Human Scalp Hair as Biomarker(University of North Bengal, 2016) Dorjee, BinuHuman biomonitoring (HBM) is a scientific technique that allows us to assess whether and to what extent environmental pollutants enter humans (Alves 2014). The technique relied on the various biomarkers like blood, urine, nails and hair. The blood is invasive biomarker while hair is emerging non-invasive biomarkers. Hair is unique character found on all mammals but not on other animals. Hairs may be defined as slender filamentous outgrowths of the skin and are primarily composed of keratin. The present paper highlights the various features of hair which makes it a reliable biomarker such as it is non-invasive, easy to transfer and store, free of contamination, easy sampling and non expensive. It has time detection window of 1 month to a year. However, there are areas of hair research which need further attention.Item Open Access Childhood Obesity(University of North Bengal, 2016) Roy, SusmitaThe purpose of this review is to highlight the risk factors of childhood obesity. The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity has increased worldwide in recent decades. Obesity in childhood is associated with a wide range of serious health complications and an increased risk of premature illness and death later in life. This book presents childhood obesity trends across multiple demographics. It discusses the contributing genetic and environmental factors of childhood obesity and shows the adverse health consequences of childhood obesity, both as they relate to childhood and as they last into adulthood. The final section presents multiple methods for obesity treatment included community and family–based intervention, pharmacotherapy, and surgical procedures. As childhood obesity increases, scientists think that heart disease, including the condition that may have killed Jonathan, will become a common pediatric disorder. Obesity increases a child’s risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and thickening of the arteries, all of which can lead to heart disease. Obesity also increases a child’s risk of type 2 diabetes, in which the body becomes resistant to insulin, and metabolic syndrome, in which the body simultaneously develops several different risk factors that make a young person more likely to develop heart disease or diabetes, or to have a stroke.