Vulnerable sections especially Dalit, Elderly and Disabled

In sociology, vulnerable sections especially Dalit, Elderly and Disabled face systemic challenges that impact their social and economic well-being. Addressing these issues requires inclusive policies and societal awareness to promote equity and justice.

Previous Years Question

YearQuestionMarks
2016Explain the consequences of gender inequality in India.5 M 
2016 specialDiscuss the significance of the landmark judgement of Supreme Court of 1997 regarding gender justice.10 M

Dalit

  • The word “Dalit” is derived from the Sanskrit word Dal, which means ”ground”, “suppressed”, “crushed”, or “broken to pieces”. It was first used by Jyotiba Phule, the founder of the Satya Shodak Samaj. 
  • Dalits are referred to as members of the lowest caste in the traditional Hindu hierarchy, historically subjected to severe social discrimination and exclusion.

Data

  • National Sample Survey Office(NSSO) 2017-18 – 272 million(17% of total population)
  • 2011 census – 
    •  200 million (16.6% of total population)

Problems of dalit

As per the statistics provided in the NCRB report, atrocities/Crime against Scheduled Castes have increased by 1.2% in 2021

  1. Perception of Inequality: Dalits may be seen as “quota kids,” with others attributing their success to affirmative action rather than their abilities, leading to isolation and stress.
  2. Caste-Based Discrimination: Persistent social exclusion and discrimination in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and public services.
  3. Untouchability: Continued practice of untouchability in rural areas, limiting access to basic amenities like water, temples, and public spaces. Eg., Draupadi Amman Temple(Tamil Nadu) restricted entry of dalits.
  4. Economic Inequality: High levels of poverty and limited access to economic opportunities, leading to economic marginalization.
  5. Educational Barriers: Lower literacy rates and limited access to quality education, resulting in reduced opportunities for upward mobility. Eg. Delta Meghwal Rape and Death Case (2016)
  6. Violence and Atrocities: Frequent incidents of violence, including physical assaults, sexual violence, and other atrocities, often met with impunity.Eg. Hathras gang-rape case
  7. Political Exclusion: Underrepresentation in political decision-making and challenges in accessing political power.
  8. Landlessness: Lack of ownership of land or productive assets, keeping many Dalits trapped in cycles of poverty and dependence.
  9. Social Stigma: Deep-rooted social stigma and prejudice that perpetuate social and economic marginalization.
  10. Limited Access to Justice: Barriers in accessing legal justice due to fear, corruption, or discrimination within the legal system.
  11. Healthcare Disparities: Poor access to healthcare services, leading to higher mortality rates and lower life expectancy.

Provisions

Legal Provisions:

  1. The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: Protects SCs and STs from discrimination and atrocities.
  2. The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013: Bans manual scavenging and provides for the rehabilitation of those engaged in such work.

Constitutional Provisions:

  1. Article 17: Abolishes untouchability and prohibits its practice.
  2. Article 338: Establishes the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSCs) to safeguard the interests of SCs.
  3. Article 338A: Establishes the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCSTs) to protect the rights of STs.
  4. Article 15(4): Allows special provisions for the advancement of SCs and STs.
  5. Article 16(4)(a): Provides for the reservation of jobs in favor of SCs and STs in public employment.
  6. Article 46: Mandates the protection of the educational and economic interests of weaker sections, particularly SCs and STs.
  7. Article 330: Reserves seats for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
  8. Article 332: Reserves seats for SCs and STs in State Legislative Assemblies.
  9. Other : Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment(MOSJE)

Contribution of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to Dalit Empowerment

  1. Legal Framework: Drafted the Indian Constitution, ensuring legal safeguards for Dalits, including the abolition of untouchability (Article 17) and provisions for affirmative action (reservations).
  2. Political Mobilization: Founded the Independent Labour Party and later the Scheduled Castes Federation, providing a political platform for Dalits. His call to “Educate, Agitate, Organize” became the guiding principle for Dalit emancipation.
  3. Social Reform: Led the Mahad Satyagraha in 1927, a significant protest to assert Dalits’ right. He also advocated for the annihilation of the caste system and conversion to Buddhism, encouraging Dalits to break free from Hindu orthodoxy.
  4. Economic Empowerment: Worked towards land reforms and labor rights, emphasizing the economic upliftment of Dalits. He believed
  5. economic independence was crucial for the social liberation of Dalits.
  6. Education: Promoted education as a tool for Dalit empowerment, establishing educational institutions and advocating for access to education for marginalized communities. He saw education as the foundation for Dalit self-respect and progress.
  7. Dalit Identity: Championed the term “Dalit” to foster a sense of identity and solidarity among the oppressed castes, helping to unify their struggle for social justice and dignity.

Elderly

Previous Years Questions

YearQuestionMarks
2021Eligibility of pension for elderly in Rajasthan.2 M

Data

  • India ageing report by UNFPA (20% elderly population by 2050).
  • Census 2011– 104 million elderly persons

Dependency Ratio: The dependency ratio measures the number of dependents (children and elderly) compared to the working-age population.

Issues Relating to Elderly Persons

  1. Elder Abuse: Physical, emotional, and verbal abuse(Nealy 5%) by caregivers or family members.
  2. Financial Insecurity: Limited income and insufficient savings lead to financial struggles.
  3. Loneliness: Social isolation and loss of loved ones contribute to loneliness and depression.
  4. Healthcare Issues: Chronic illnesses and limited access to affordable healthcare(25% of the elderly report poor health).
  5. Dignified Ageing: Need for adequate healthcare, financial stability, and social support for a dignified life.
  6. Inadequate Housing: Poor living conditions or unsuitable housing can impact comfort and safety.
  7. Limited Mobility: Physical limitations can restrict independence and access to services.
  8. Legal and Rights Protection: Lack of awareness(only 12% are aware about legal provisions)or enforcement of legal rights and protections for elderly persons.

Government Initiatives

  1. Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS): Monthly pension for elderly citizens below the poverty line.
  2. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY): Physical aids for BPL senior citizens.
  3. Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY): Pension scheme with fixed returns for post-retirement income.
  4. Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP): Supports NGOs in providing elderly care services.
  5. Elder Line: National helpline for senior citizens.
  6. Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine (SAGE): Promotes startups offering elderly care solutions.
  7. Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity (SACRED) Portal: Job opportunities platform for seniors.
  8. Vayoshreshtha Samman: National awards recognizing contributions to elderly care.

Legal Provisions:

  • Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act, 2007: Legal protection and welfare for senior citizens, ensuring children maintain their parents.
  • Article 41: State assistance for senior citizens in old age and sickness.
  • Article 46: Promotes welfare of weaker sections, including senior citizens.
  • Section 20 (Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956): Children must support aged or infirm parents.
  • Section 125 (CrPC): Legal provision for parents’ maintenance by children.

Way Forward

  1. Financial and Health Planning: Allocation of budgetary provisions, robust healthcare system.
  2. Social Empowerment: Institutions to value elderly as assets, door to door delivery of services.
  3. Active Aging: Opportunities for engagement and adaptation to digital changes.
  4. Accessibility: Better access to healthcare, housing, and mobility aids.
  5. Legal Protections: Enhanced awareness and enforcement of rights.

Disabled

According to The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 “Person with disability” means a person with long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, hinders his full and effective participation in society equally with others.

Status of Disability

2011 census: 2.68 Cr persons are ‘disabled’ which is 2.21% of the total population. 

World Bank Report: disabilities comprise between 5 and 8 percent of the Indian population.

Issues and challenges

  1. Lack of Accessible Infrastructure: Inadequate public spaces, transportation, and housing limit mobility and independence.
  2. Disability Quota Issues: Challenges in Fair Implementation, Highlighted by the IAS Pooja Khadkar Case.
  3. Insufficient Data: Outdated and limited data hinder effective policy-making and resource allocation.
  4. Social Stigma: Persistent biases and discrimination affect integration and equal treatment.
  5. Employment Barriers: Discrimination and lack of accommodations restrict job opportunities.
  6. Healthcare Access: Limited access to specialized services impacts quality of life.
  7. Educational Inequality: Lack of inclusive education prevents quality learning for students with disabilities.
  8. Policy Gaps: Inadequate or poorly enforced policies fail to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Provisions

Constitutional:

Article 41: Guarantees the right to work and education, including provisions for persons with disabilities.

Legal:

  • Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD) 2016: Comprehensive legislation(21 disability types) ensuring rights and protections for individuals with disabilities.
  • Accessible India Campaign: Aimed at making public spaces and transportation accessible.
  • Deen Dayal Upadhyay National Scheme for Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities(DDDRS): Provides support and services for the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
  • Disability Information Line (DIL)2024: Offers information and assistance to individuals with disabilities.
  • Unique Disability Identification Portal
  • National Fellowship for Students with Disabilities.
  • The government launched ISL (Indian Sign Language) dictionary terms, Video Relay Service, and online courses in Indian Sign Language, along with ensuring accessible books through SugamyaPustakalaya.
  • India’s first high-tech sports training center for Divyangjan → in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
  • DEPwD announces 1% interest rate rebate to divyangjan borrowers under NDFDC Loan.
  • Assistance to Disabled Persons Camp (ADIP) Scheme

Right of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016

  • Disability is defined as an evolving and dynamic concept.
  • Expanded List: Types of disabilities increased from 7 to 21, including mental illness, autism, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, etc.
  • The Government can notify additional specific disabilities.
  • Increased Reservation: Reservation for disabled persons increased from 3% to 4% in government jobs and from 3% to 5% in higher education.
  • Right to Education: Children with benchmark disabilities (6-18 years) have the right to free education in government and recognized institutions.
  • Accessibility: Emphasis on ensuring accessibility in public buildings within a prescribed timeframe, supported by the Accessible India Campaign.
  • Regulatory Bodies: The Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and State Commissioners serve as regulatory and grievance redressal agencies.
  • Financial Support: Creation of National and State Funds to provide financial assistance to persons with disabilities.

Way forward

  1. Inclusion in Mainstream
  2. universal design principles in public infrastructure(accessibility for all)
  3. Robust policies with dedicated budgets for disability services
  4. Healthcare Accessibility
  5. Awareness Campaigns
  6. Community Engagement

Vulnerable sections especially Dalit, Elderly and Disabled / Vulnerable sections especially Dalit, Elderly and Disabled/ Vulnerable sections especially Dalit, Elderly and Disabled

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