Tribal health remains one of the most neglected domains within the Indian public health system despite constitutional safeguards and multiple targeted programmes. Scheduled Tribes (STs), constituting approximately 8.6% of India’s population, continue to experience disproportionately high morbidity and mortality due to a complex interaction of socio-economic deprivation, geographical isolation, cultural barriers, and systemic inadequacies in healthcare delivery. Historical marginalisation, poverty, low literacy levels, and poor living conditions have collectively contributed to persistent health inequities among tribal communities. Conventional healthcare models, which largely follow a uniform national approach, have failed to adequately address the unique cultural, social, and environmental contexts of tribal populations, resulting in limited utilisation of health services and delayed care-seeking behaviour. This paper presents a detailed narrative analysis of the health status of tribal populations in India, drawing upon secondary data from national surveys, census reports, and published literature. The study examines key indicators related to maternal and child health, nutritional status, communicable and non-communicable diseases, and healthcare utilisation patterns among tribal communities. It further explores systemic barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, workforce shortages, accessibility issues, financial constraints, and discrimination within healthcare settings. By reviewing existing policy frameworks and community-based models, the paper proposes context-specific and culturally sensitive strategies to strengthen primary healthcare delivery in tribal areas. The findings emphasise the need for integrated, participatory, and rights-based approaches to reduce health disparities and improve overall health outcomes among tribal populations.