This book seeks to examine the extent of indebtedness among the tribals in India and its impact on their social, economic, psychological and cultural life. Tracing the factors that motivate the tribal communities to seek loan, it describes in detail the formal and informal sources of loan.

Finding out the difficulties experienced by the tribals at different levels while trying to receive loan, it analyzes the consequences of non-refund of loan and suggests strategies to ensure its time-bound refund. It also finds out the extent of the use of loan amount in meeting basic needs, protection and promotion of their human rights and empowering the tribal loanees.