Nature and Extent of Economic Deprivation among Dalits in Rural India: An Analysis

Dr.V. Ramakrishnappa; Prof. Vishwanatha

Volume : IV, Issue : II, February - 2015

Nature and Extent of Economic Deprivation among Dalits in Rural India: An Analysis

Dr. V. Ramakrishnappa, Prof. Vishwanatha

Abstract :

The population of Dalits in India stands at 20.14 crore which constitute 16.66 per cent of the country�s population. Of the total Dalit population, 79.8 per cent live in rural areas and 20.2 per cent live in urban areas. The main source of livelihood of the rural dalit family is agricultural wage labour. Dalits have been subjected to various forms of deprivation historically. This paper explores the dimensions and issues related to economic deprivation among dalits in rural India. The study found that the dalits confronted with multiple deprivations- high level of poverty and unemployment, landlessness, and lack of institutional credit support.