Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India : Socio-Economic Status & Empowerment Policies

The socio-economic development and protection of scheduled castes (SCs) from discrimination and exploitation has been a high priority area from the very start of Independent India. According to Census 2011, SCs constituted 16.9 percent of the Indian population. In the past, they were socially ostracised, economically exploited and denied human dignity and a sense of self-worth. Women belonging to SCs are in a far worse situation by all development indicators. Poverty and deprivation affect them more adversely. In spite of their adverse conditions, they contribute significantly to the sustenance and growth of the production system of the country. Development and empowerment of SCs is a commitment enshrined in the Constitution of India. This is to be done by ensuring equal rights, access to benefits and resources and empowerment to enable them to develop their potential and capacities as agents of social change, through the process of planned development. In India, development planning in recent years has seen a visible shift in focus from the mere expansion of production of goods and services -- and the consequent growth of per capita income -- to planning for enhancement of human well-being. This book explains and examines the problems and constraints of scheduled caste population. Development strategy and various measures adopted to ameliorate their socio-economic conditions are also discussed.