Land-Owning Dalit Women in Karnataka Still Depend on Wage Labour: Study
A recent study evaluating the Bhoo Odetana scheme in Karnataka has concluded that land ownership has not fully eliminated dependence on wage labour for Scheduled Caste (SC) women. The research, published on 20 April 2026, sheds light on the persistent economic struggles faced by Dalit women despite government initiatives aimed at land redistribution.
Key Findings of the Study
The study, which analyzed the impact of the Bhoo Odetana scheme, found that while land ownership provides a sense of security and potential for agricultural income, many Dalit women continue to rely on wage labour to supplement their livelihoods. This dependence is attributed to several factors, including limited access to resources, lack of agricultural training, and ongoing social and economic barriers.
Economic Challenges Persist
Despite owning land, these women often face challenges such as insufficient irrigation facilities, high input costs, and market access issues, which hinder their ability to generate sustainable income from farming. As a result, they are forced to seek wage labour in sectors like construction, domestic work, and agriculture on others' lands to make ends meet.
Implications for Policy and Society
The findings highlight the need for more comprehensive support beyond land ownership. Experts suggest that enhancing access to credit, providing skill development programs, and addressing social discrimination are crucial steps to empower Dalit women economically. The study calls for a reevaluation of the Bhoo Odetana scheme to include holistic measures that address the root causes of poverty and dependency.
This research underscores the complex interplay between land rights and economic empowerment, emphasizing that ownership alone is not enough to break the cycle of wage labour for marginalized communities in Karnataka.
