This study examines community-based approaches to health and disease by exploring the insights gained from the Santal Tribe in Purulia, West Bengal. The Santal Tribe is an indigenous community that has traditionally relied on its own healthcare practices to address health needs and prevent diseases. This research aims to understand the unique healthcare practices of the Santal Tribe and the role of community participation in promoting well-being within their community. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observations within the Santal Tribe. The findings of this study shed light on the indigenous healthcare practices employed by the Santal Tribe, revealing a rich repository of traditional knowledge and healing methods. The tribe's healthcare practices encompass a holistic approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Community participation emerges as a critical factor in the Santal Tribe's healthcare system. The community actively engages in health promotion activities, including collective decision-making, resource-sharing, and intergenerational transmission of health practices. The strong sense of community belonging and shared responsibility for health fosters a supportive environment for the individual's well-being. The study also highlights the challenges faced by the Santal Tribe, including limited access to modern healthcare facilities, language barriers, and socioeconomic disparities. Despite these challenges, the community's resilience and resourcefulness are evident in their efforts to maintain their traditional healthcare practices and adapt to changing circumstances. The insights gained from the Santal Tribe's community-based approach have broader implications for health policy and practice. Incorporating indigenous knowledge and community participation in healthcare systems can promote culturally sensitive care, address health disparities, and enhance overall health outcomes. These findings contribute to the growing body of research on community-based interventions and advocate for their integration into mainstream healthcare systems.
