DISPARITIES IN LITERACY RATE OF DALITS IN KARNATAKA ? AN INTER- DISTRICT LEVEL ANALYSIS

Though the Karnataka state is striving towards achieving universal literacy at a faster pace, but still 35% of the Scheduled Castes population and 38% of the Scheduled Tribes population is still illiterate. The following article has analysed the trends and pattern of literacy rates of Dalits with regard to regions and gender in Karnataka. Statistical and analytical methods such as Averages, Percentages, Range, Disparity Indices and Co-efficient of Variation are employed in the study. It is found that the literacy rate of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe in the state is far behind the benchmark goal of 85% by the Planning Commission. This is a cause of concern. The female SCs and STs are quite worse off when compared to male SCs and STs. The inter-district variations are also quite wider in their case. Further the literacy rate of female SCs and STs across northern backward districts have not crossed 50 per cent. This is one of major challenge that the State should address on a priority concern. Twelfth Plan proposes that efforts will be made for providing functional literacy with special focus to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other disadvantageous groups for keeping track with the objective of Inclusive Growth. It will go long way in sustaining the Dalits improvement in the growth process. Once the literacy rate of female Dalits is improved, it will help them to utilize better economic opportunities and enhance their capabilities, there-by leading to socio-economic empowerment. Key Words: Literacy Rate, Dalits, Gender Disparity, Regional Disparity