IKON
Lalita Prasad Vidyarthi, widely known as LPV, is a prominent figure in contemporary Indian anthropology. He completed his master’s in anthropology at Lucknow University and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago. Vidyarthi joined Ranchi University, where he almost single-handedly elevated the anthropology department, adding numerous dimensions to its scope. Today, it is recognized as a major center for anthropological studies in India. His book, Rise to Anthropology in India, a two-volume work on the growth of Indian anthropology, remains one of the most comprehensive treatises on the subject.
Vidyarthi conducted extensive fieldwork among the tribes of Bihar and led the Task Force for the Development of Backward Areas, appointed by the Planning Commission.
What is the job all about?
Anthropology is the scientific study of the origin, physical, social, and cultural development and behavior of humankind. It examines various human cultures, civilizations, traditions, and customs. Anthropology delves into how people interact, live together as members of society, and contributes to the understanding and explanation of socio-cultural behavior.
This field also involves the archaeological study of human relics to uncover the biological and cultural history of humanity over the last four million years. It explores cultural patterns globally and investigates how people have both exploited and protected natural resources and the environment.
Several branches of anthropology focus on different aspects of human development, including:
• Physical or Biological Anthropology: Studies the biological evolution of humans and their connection to primate ancestors.
• Socio-cultural Anthropology: Examines the socio-cultural development of the human race, studying human cultures, societies, linguistics, minority populations, social norms, and specific social groups.
• Prehistoric Anthropology: Deals with bones, relics, and artifacts to reconstruct historical timelines based on these findings.
• Applied Anthropology: Addresses social problems like birth control, labor unrest, juvenile delinquency, and mortality rates using information gathered from other fields.
• Linguistic Anthropology: Focuses on the evolution of languages, both written and unwritten, and dialects, often working in linguistics.
Can you go for it?
If you are curious about how people, languages, tools, dress, and cultures have evolved over the centuries, anthropology could be the right career for you. There is also demand for curators in museums, providing another career path. Anthropologists are employed by museums, art galleries, libraries, and archives.
Is there a future in this field?
Yes, there is a promising future in anthropology, though it requires preparation for physical hardships such as traveling and excavating. Open-mindedness and lack of bias are crucial. Strong writing skills are necessary for documenting findings. Anthropologists must also be effective communicators, capable of developing and maintaining good relationships with people from diverse communities, and must be patient and tactful, especially when interviewing and gathering information.
Where to begin :
In Goa:
Goa University does not offer a graduate program in anthropology, so students can complete their Inter-Science studies and then pursue higher education in anthropology at institutions outside Goa.
Outside Goa:
• Deccan College, Pune
• Karnataka University, Dharwad
• Shivaji University, Kolhapur
• Mumbai University
• St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
Online Studies:
Online certification courses in anthropology are available through platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy. Institutes like Indira Gandhi National Open University, Amity University Online, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL), and the University of Hyderabad also offer online courses in anthropology.
Employment Avenues:
Job prospects in anthropology are strong, both in India and abroad. The Anthropological Survey of India is a major employer in research. There is also demand for curators in museums, offering another career opportunity for anthropologists. They may find employment in museums, art galleries, libraries, and archives.
Additionally, anthropologists can work with NGOs in underdeveloped areas and organizations like UNESCO, UNICEF, and WHO. The scope for employment is broad, including roles as linguists, social workers, tour guides, and positions in publishing houses, social service organizations, forensic science, and criminal investigation departments.
Salaries:
Starting salaries for anthropologists range from ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per month, with significant increases possible with experience.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024