Karnataka Resurvey Identifies 23,395 Former Devadasi Women

Belagavi: A comprehensive study among former Devadasi women in Karnataka identified 23,395 women in 15 districts and mapped the social and economic conditions of more than 90,000 family members belonging to the first, second and third generations. The data will help the government create rehabilitation and welfare measures for the society.

The report prepared by the Department of Women and Child Development and Empowerment of Differently Handicapped and Senior Citizens in association with the Karnataka State Women Development Corporation has now been submitted to the State government. Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar handed over the report to the Prime Minister on Tuesday.

According to the report, the top five districts with the highest number of ex-Devadasi women are Bagalkot (4,189), Vijayanagara (3,876), Belagavi (2,649), Koppal (2,469) and Ballari (2,333).

Based on its findings, the report made far-reaching recommendations covering former Devadasi women and their first, second and third generation families.

On social rehabilitation, the survey report suggested providing financial incentives to encourage marriage and inter-caste marriage among former Devadasi women and their first, second and third generation children and organizing awareness programs in the society so that this social evil does not continue in any way. It was also suggested that the government announce a “special package” for the rehabilitation of these people.

In the education sector, private scholarships, hostel facilities and coaching for competitive exams have been offered and schools and colleges have been advised not to insist on mandatory mention of father’s name in application forms. For health and livelihood, greater coverage under government health schemes, distribution of Ayushman Bharat cards and financial support and training for self-employment, agriculture and animal husbandry have been suggested.

Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar said, “A survey was conducted in 15 districts of the state to assess the situation of erstwhile Devadasi women and their family members belonging to the first, second and third generations, collect accurate data to facilitate their rehabilitation and ensure provision of government assistance. Based on the report currently submitted, the government will take further steps.”

The resurvey was conducted between September 15 and December 31, 2025, covering Belagavi, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Raichur, Koppal, Dharwad, Haveri, Gadag, Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Chitradurga, Davanagere, Shivamogga, Ballari and Vijayanagara districts.

The exercise was conducted to update and correct previous data by including women excluded from previous surveys and collecting new information on their age, education, income, health, land ownership, employment, skills training and access to basic facilities. Details of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were also documented to assess the long-term social and economic impact of the practice across generations.