Understanding Marginalization
Understanding Marginalization
Notes)
Marginalization refers to the process where certain groups or communities are pushed to the edges of society and denied
equal access to resources, opportunities, and rights. This chapter explores who are marginalized, why marginalization
occurs, and how it affects different communities in India.
1. What is Marginalization?
✔ Adivasis (tribals)
✔ Dalits (Scheduled Castes)
✔ Religious minorities (e.g., Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, etc.)
✔ Women, differently-abled individuals, and LGBTQ+ communities
• Adivasis (indigenous people) are among the most marginalized communities in India.
• They traditionally lived in forests and hills, relying on hunting, farming, and gathering.
• With urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation, many Adivasis lost their land.
• They lack access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
• Displacement due to mining, dams, and factories has worsened their condition.
• Example: The displacement of tribals due to the Narmada Dam project.
c) Religious Minorities
• Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, and Jains are religious minorities in India.
• Muslims, in particular, face marginalization due to lower literacy rates, poverty, and discrimination in
employment.
• Some minority communities face stereotypes and biases in daily life.
• The Sachar Committee Report (2006) found that Muslims in India lag behind in education, employment,
and political representation.
a) Economic Factors
c) Political Factors
4. Impact of Marginalization
✔ Lack of Education → Many children from marginalized groups drop out of school due to poverty and discrimination.
✔ Unemployment and Poverty → Limited access to jobs, land, and business opportunities.
✔ Poor Health and Malnutrition → Lack of hospitals and healthcare facilities in remote areas.
✔ Loss of Identity and Culture → Adivasi languages, traditions, and livelihoods are declining due to modernization.
✔ Political Underrepresentation → Few leaders from marginalized communities in government and decision-making.
b) Reservation System
• The government provides reservation in education and jobs for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
• Seats are reserved in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Assemblies for SCs and STs.
c) Special Development Programs
• Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP): Focuses on education, healthcare, and employment for Adivasis.
• Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP): Promotes welfare of Dalits.
• Minority Welfare Schemes: Scholarships and skill development for minorities.
• SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 → Punishes discrimination and violence against Dalits and
Adivasis.
• Forest Rights Act, 2006 → Grants Adivasis rights over forest land.
• Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 → Ensures free education for children from marginalized groups.
7. Conclusion
Marginalization affects millions of people in India, particularly Adivasis, Dalits, and religious minorities. Social,
economic, and political reforms are essential to ensure equality and justice for all. The Indian Constitution and
various government policies aim to empower marginalized communities and provide them with equal opportunities in
society.