Minority Education and Social Change in Contemporary India

The education of minorities occupies a crucial significance not only in the development paradigm but the Constitution of India is also committed to the equality of citizens and to preserve, protect and assure the rights of minorities in matters of language, religion and culture. Since independence, India has achieved significant growth and development. It has also been successful in reducing poverty and improving crucial human development indicators such as levels of literacy, education and health. There are indications, however, that not all religious communities and social groups have shared equally the benefits of the growth process. In this context, education of the minorities assumes relevance in the process of social change.