Last reviewed 4 Nov 2026 · Facts as of 4 Nov 2026 · 3 min read
1. Concepts
DefinitionSocial exclusion
The process by which some groups are denied full participation in economic, social and political life because of caste, tribe, gender, religion, disability or other identity — leading to poverty, poor health and education, and lack of voice.
- Inclusive policy — measures that remove barriers and give these groups equal opportunity: reservation, targeted welfare, legal protection and awareness.
2. Groups and issues
| Group | Main issues |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Castes | Untouchability, atrocities, landlessness, manual scavenging |
| Scheduled Tribes | Displacement by projects and mining, forest rights, remote access to services |
| Other Backward Classes | Educational and economic backwardness |
| Women | Violence, low workforce participation, unequal property rights |
| Religious minorities | Educational and economic gaps |
| Persons with disabilities | Access to education, jobs and buildings |
| Transgender persons | Discrimination, lack of identity documents |
| Elderly, children, migrants | Social security, child labour, entitlements |
3. Constitutional safeguards
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| 14, 15, 16 | Equality; special provisions (15(4), 15(5), 16(4)) for backward classes, SCs and STs |
| 17 | Abolition of untouchability |
| 23, 24 | No forced labour; no child labour in hazardous work |
| 46 | Promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections |
| 330, 332 | Reserved seats for SCs/STs in Lok Sabha and Assemblies |
| 338, 338A, 338B | National Commissions for SCs, STs and Backward Classes |
| Fifth and Sixth Schedules | Administration of Scheduled and tribal areas |