Role of Education in Inter-Caste Marriages of Women from Scheduled Castes in India

Abstract

Scheduled Castes (SC) is a group of deprived castes in India. Traditionally, people belongs to these castes are socio-economically exploited and untouchables. The present study analyses the role of education in decision of inter-caste marriages for social cohesion. The relationship between education of bride, parents and parents-in-law with number of inter-caste marriages was calculated using data compiled by India Human Development Survey (2011). The study shows no direct and robust relationship between education and inter-caste marriages. Educated brides lead for inter-caste marriages and educated parents support in this decision, but negative relationship was observed for education of parents-in-law with number of inter-caste marriages. Educated parents-in-law show no acceptance for inter-caste marriages of their shoots. The freedom of choice to bride show key role in formation of inter-case marriages which shows wide state-to-state variations. Education improves the capabilities of a person to deicide their own. Therefore, we have large scope to create bases for inter-caste marriages and social change through enlightenment and education.