Prevalence of misinformation among nomads of Jammu and Kashmir
An understanding of myths and misconceptions about COVID-19 pandemic
Keywords:
misinformation, myths, beliefs, nomadic pastoralists, COVID-19, Jammu and KashmirAbstract
Background: Nomadic pastoralists are considered predominantly at the risk of being severely affected by their false beliefs and myths in Jammu and Kashmir. These myths, beliefs and misconceptions are deeply rooted in their pastoral lifestyle and culture fabric that make them distinct from settled communities. Prevalence of misinformation among the nomads of Jammu and Kashmir, surrounding their healthcare practices is recognizable, yet very little is known about their practicing myths, misbeliefs and misconception regarding Covid-19 pandemic. So there is dearth of knowledge about embedded misinformation based on myths and misbeliefs during the ongoing pandemic in nomadic pastoralists of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Methodology: The study employed a mixed methodological framework to achieve the objectives of this study. In the quantitative method, the survey with a researchers-guided questionnaire has been used for the collection of data while in qualitative, semi-structured interview was conducted. For quantitative approach, 129 respondents were randomly selected at 10 random location of Jammu and Kashmir and 30 respondents were chosen for semi-structured interviews respectively. Conclusion: Through this study it has become evident that deeply ingrained myths and misconceptions solidify their false beliefs and also play a vital role in the spreading of misinformation.
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