EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL CHANGE: ASSESSING THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL STATUS OF DALITS IN TELANGANA STATE


Merugu Rushali
Research Scholar in English, Mahatma Gandhi University, Nalgonda, Telangana State
Abstract
The present study, “Education, Employment, and Social Change: Assessing the Socio-Economic and Cultural Status of Dalits in Telangana State,” examines the multidimensional aspects of development among Dalit communities in Telangana. Since the formation of the state in 2014, several welfare policies and affirmative action programs have been implemented to uplift marginalized sections, particularly Scheduled Castes (SCs). This study focuses on key indicators such as educational attainment, employment patterns, income levels, and cultural transformation to understand the extent of socio-economic progress among Dalits. The research adopts a descriptive and analytical approach using secondary data sources such as Census reports, National Sample Survey (NSS), Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), and state government publications. The findings reveal that although there has been notable improvement in literacy rates, school enrollment, and access to higher education among Dalits, disparities still persist in terms of quality of education and dropout rates. In employment, a gradual shift from traditional caste-based occupations to diversified sectors is observed; however, a significant proportion of Dalits remain concentrated in informal and low-paying jobs. Culturally, increased awareness, political participation, and assertion of identity have contributed to social change, yet issues of discrimination and social exclusion continue in subtle forms. The study concludes that while Telangana has made considerable progress in improving the socio-economic conditions of Dalits, there is a need for more inclusive and targeted policies to ensure sustainable and equitable development.
Keywords: Dalits, Socio-Economic Status, Education, Employment, Social Change, Telangana State.
Journal Name :
EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR)

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Published on : 2026-04-09

Vol : 12
Issue : 4
Month : April
Year : 2026
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