Scheduled Castes in the Indian Labour Market: Employment Discrimination and Its Impact on Poverty

This study examines the discriminatory workings of the labor market and its unequal outcomes with respect to employment, wages, and occupations, and its impact on the poverty of Scheduled Caste wage workers in India. It identifies the causes of high unemployment and low wages and segregation in low-paid occupations, and provides empirical evidence of discrimination in wages and its impact on reduced wage incomes and increased poverty.

Format: Hardback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 27 March 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate workings of the labor market, shedding light on its discriminatory nature and its uneven outcomes in terms of employment, wages, and occupations, ultimately contributing to the poverty of Scheduled Caste wage workers in India. By examining the persistence of caste inequality in both the private and public sectors, the study seeks to understand the underlying factors that perpetuate this disparity. It identifies the primary causes of high unemployment and low wages among Scheduled Caste workers, as well as their segregation into low-paid occupations. Through robust empirical evidence, the authors convincingly demonstrate the existence of discrimination in wages, which has a detrimental impact on their wage incomes and exacerbates their poverty. This research not only adds to the existing knowledge on the subject but also provides valuable insights into the urgent need for policy interventions and social reforms to address the challenges faced by Scheduled Caste workers in the labor market.

Introduction:
The labor market in India is characterized by significant discrimination, leading to unequal outcomes in terms of employment, wages, and occupations. This discrimination has a profound impact on the poverty of Scheduled Caste wage workers, who face systemic barriers and challenges in accessing employment opportunities and achieving fair wages.

Persistence of Caste Inequality in Employment, Wages, and Occupations:
The study highlights the persistence of caste inequality in employment, wages, and occupations between the Scheduled Caste and the higher castes in both the private and public sectors. Despite legal reforms and affirmative action policies aimed at promoting social inclusion and equality, the Scheduled Caste continue to face discrimination in hiring, promotion, and pay scales.

Causes of High Unemployment and Low Wages:
The study identifies several factors contributing to high unemployment and low wages among Scheduled Caste workers. These include lack of access to education and training, social exclusion, discrimination in hiring practices, and occupational segregation. Scheduled Caste workers often face barriers to upward mobility, limiting their opportunities for career advancement and higher earnings.

Segregation into Low-Paid Occupations:
Scheduled Caste workers are disproportionately represented in low-paid occupations, such as agriculture, construction, and domestic work. This segregation not only perpetuates their poverty but also limits their access to social benefits and opportunities for skill development.

Empirical Evidence of Discrimination in Wages:
The study provides convincing empirical evidence of discrimination in wages. It shows that Scheduled Caste workers are paid significantly less than their higher caste counterparts for performing the same job. This wage differential is a result of systemic biases and discrimination, which perpetuate the cycle of poverty and inequality.

Impact on Income and Poverty:
The discriminatory practices in the labor market have a significant impact on the income and poverty of Scheduled Caste wage workers. Lower wages result in reduced purchasing power, which makes it difficult for them to meet their basic needs and provide for their families. This, in turn, leads to increased poverty and social exclusion.

Policy Interventions and Social Reforms:
To address the challenges faced by Scheduled Caste wage workers, there is a need for policy interventions and social reforms. This includes providing access to quality education and training programs, promoting inclusive hiring practices, and implementing anti-discrimination laws and policies. Additionally, efforts should be made to promote occupational diversification and skill development among Scheduled Caste workers, enabling them to access higher-paying jobs and break free from the cycle of poverty.

Conclusion:
The study highlights the discriminatory workings of the labor market and its unequal outcomes with respect to employment, wages, and occupations, and its impact on the poverty of Scheduled Caste wage workers in India. It underscores the urgent need for policy interventions and social reforms to promote social inclusion, equality, and sustainable development for all segments of society.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 223 x 145 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198872252