As of the 2011 Census, the scheduled caste in India number 20,13,78,086, constituting 16.6% of the total population. Within this, scheduled castes account for 18.5% of the rural population and 12.6% of the urban population. Notably, from 2001 to 2011, India’s overall population growth rate was 17.64%, while the scheduled castes experienced a higher growth rate of 20.8% during the same period.
Breaking down the figures, rural areas are home to 15,38,50,562 individuals from scheduled castes, while urban areas house 4,75,27,524. The decadal growth rate for scheduled castes in rural areas was comparatively lower at 15.7%, contrasting with the higher rate of 41.3% in urban areas. This disparity can be attributed to the migration of scheduled caste populations from villages to towns and cities.
States with the Highest Percentage of Scheduled Castes (Census-2011):
- Punjab (31.9%)
- Himachal Pradesh (25.2%)
- West Bengal (23.5%)
- Uttar Pradesh (20.7%)
- Haryana (20.2%)
States and Union Territories with the Lowest Percentage of Scheduled Castes (Census-2011):
- Mizoram (0.1%)
- Meghalaya (0.6%)
- Goa (1.7%)
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli (1.8%)
- Daman and Diu (2.5%)
Additionally, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep Islands have no scheduled caste population. These demographic insights shed light on the distribution and growth dynamics of scheduled castes across different regions of India.
FAQs
Q: What is the definition of Scheduled Caste (SC)?
Scheduled Castes are historically disadvantaged communities in India identified by the Indian Constitution. These groups have faced social and economic discrimination for centuries, and the government has provided special provisions and affirmative action programs to uplift their status and ensure equal opportunities.
Q: How are Scheduled Castes identified in India?
The Indian Constitution provides a list of Scheduled Castes, which is periodically updated by the government based on sociopolitical considerations and recommendations from various commissions. This list includes communities that have historically suffered from social stigma and discrimination.
Q: What are the constitutional safeguards for Scheduled Castes?
The Constitution of India provides several safeguards and affirmative action programs for Scheduled Castes, including reserved seats in educational institutions, government jobs, and elected bodies like parliament and state legislatures. Additionally, there are specific laws against discrimination and atrocities targeting Scheduled Castes.
Q: What are some challenges faced by Scheduled Castes today?
Despite constitutional safeguards and affirmative action programs, Scheduled Castes continue to face various challenges such as poverty, lack of access to quality education and healthcare, discrimination, and violence. Economic disparities and social prejudices often hinder their socio-economic progress.
Q: How can society promote the empowerment of Scheduled Castes?
Empowering Scheduled Castes requires a multifaceted approach involving policy interventions, social reforms, education, economic opportunities, and awareness campaigns to eliminate discrimination and promote inclusive growth. Ensuring effective implementation of existing laws and programs is also crucial for their upliftment.
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