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Understanding Marginalisation

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6 views

Understanding Marginalisation

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rathorelove976
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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CLASS-8 | HISTORY

Class 8 | History | Chapter 5: Understanding Marginalisation


Introduction to Marginalisation:
 Marginalisation refers to the process by which certain groups are systematically excluded
from the benefits, resources, and opportunities available in mainstream society. These groups
often face discrimination, social exclusion, and economic disadvantages.
 Understanding marginalisation helps us recognize the need for inclusive measures to ensure
equality for all communities.

Who Are Adivasis?


 Adivasis: The term "Adivasi" means "original inhabitants." They are indigenous tribal
communities in India, making up about 8% of the population.
 Adivasis are primarily found in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha,
Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and the northeastern states.
 They follow diverse tribal religions, often worshiping natural elements like rivers, mountains,
and ancestors.
 Adivasis have over 500 distinct tribal groups, each with unique cultures, languages, and
practices. They are not part of the caste system or hierarchical structures.
 Languages: Many Adivasi languages, such as Santhali, have contributed to the development
of languages like Bengali.

Adivasis and Stereotyping:


 Adivasis are often depicted in stereotypical ways, such as being "primitive" or "backward,"
which overlooks the diversity and richness of their cultural heritage.
 These stereotypes portray them as exotic, focusing on their traditional attire and dance, but
fail to acknowledge their struggles and complex identities.

Adivasis and Development:


 Historically, Adivasis lived in forested areas and relied on forests for their livelihood. Over
time, deforestation and industrial projects have displaced them.
 Forced Migration: During colonial times, many Adivasis were forcibly relocated to work in
plantations, mines, and industries. This migration resulted in significant loss of life and
disruption of their traditional lifestyles.
 Displacement: The construction of dams, mines, and industries has led to large-scale
displacement. Adivasis have lost their lands, and over 50% of those displaced by mining
projects are Adivasis.
 Consequences: Displacement has resulted in poverty, malnutrition, and the loss of their
cultural practices. It has severely impacted their social and economic well-being.

Minorities and Marginalisation:


 Minority Communities: Minorities are groups with smaller populations compared to the
majority and often face discrimination and exclusion.
 The Indian Constitution provides safeguards for minorities, ensuring they have equal rights
and protection from domination by the majority culture.
 These safeguards preserve the cultural identity of minorities and protect them from social
exclusion and economic marginalisation.

Muslims and Marginalisation:

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CLASS-8 | HISTORY
 Muslims, who make up 14.2% of India’s population, face socio-economic and educational
disadvantages, leading to their marginalisation.
 The Sachar Committee (2005) found that Muslims face conditions similar to those of
Scheduled Castes and Tribes in terms of poverty and education levels.
 Social segregation and discrimination also contribute to the marginalisation of Muslims,
limiting their access to opportunities and resources.
Access to Basic Amenities (2008–2009)
Religious Community Pucca House (%) Electricity (%) Tap Water (%)
Hindu 65.4 75.2 43.7
Muslim 63.8 67.5 35.8
Christian 69.3 86.2 48.0
Sikh 91.3 96.0 49.3
Observations:
1. Pucca Houses: Sikhs have the highest percentage of pucca houses (91.3%), followed by
Christians (69.3%). Muslims and Hindus have similar percentages, around 63.8% and
65.4%, respectively.
2. Electricity Access: Sikhs have the highest access to electricity (86.2%), while Muslims
have the lowest (67.5%). Hindus fall in between with 75.2%.
3. Tap Water: Sikhs lead in access to tap water (49.3%), while Muslims again have the
lowest access at 35.8%.
Literacy Rate by Religion (2011)
Religion Literacy Rate (%)
All 74 The general literacy rate across all religions is 74%.
Hindus 63
Muslims 57 Muslims have the lowest literacy rate at 57%.
Christians 74
Sikhs 67
Buddhists 71
Jains 86 Jains have the highest literacy rate at 86%.

Important Questions
1. What do you understand by the word ‘marginalisation’?
Marginalisation refers to the process where certain groups or communities are pushed to the edges of
society, limiting their access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making. These groups often face
discrimination and exclusion, making it difficult for them to improve their social and economic status.
2. List two reasons why Adivasis are becoming increasingly marginalised.
 Loss of Land and Forests: Adivasis depend heavily on forests and land for their livelihood. However,
due to industrialization, mining, and deforestation, they are being displaced from their traditional
lands.
 Lack of Political Representation: Adivasis often have limited representation in politics, which
affects their ability to protect their rights and interests.
3. Why are the Constitution’s safeguards to protect minority communities very important?
The Constitution’s safeguards are important because they ensure that minority communities, who may be
vulnerable to discrimination and exclusion, are protected.
These safeguards provide them with equal rights and opportunities to preserve their culture, access
education, and participate in governance.

4. What do you understand by the term minority?

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CLASS-8 | HISTORY
A minority refers to a group of people who are numerically smaller than the majority population in a
country and often face disadvantages in terms of access to resources, political representation, and social
acceptance. Minorities may have distinct cultural, linguistic, or religious identities.
5. Provide two reasons to support the statement: ‘Muslims are a marginalised community’.
 Lower Access to Education: According to data, a significant percentage of the Muslim population
has lower levels of education compared to other communities, leading to fewer job opportunities.
 Economic Disparity: Muslims often live in poorer areas and have limited access to healthcare, basic
services, and employment, making them economically marginalised.
6. List three things that you would tell her about the lives of Adivasis in India.
 Rich Cultural Heritage: Adivasis have a rich and diverse cultural history with unique traditions,
languages, and beliefs that go beyond the stereotypical images often shown.
 Struggles with Displacement: Many Adivasis face the constant threat of displacement due to
development projects, leaving them without land or resources for survival.
 Economic Challenges: Despite their connection to forests and land, Adivasis often struggle with
poverty and lack of access to education and healthcare.
8. Would you agree with the statement that economic marginalisation inevitably leads to
social marginalisation?
Yes, economic marginalisation often leads to social marginalisation. When people are economically
disadvantaged, they lack access to basic necessities like education, healthcare, and employment
opportunities. This leads to social exclusion, as they are unable to participate fully in society, face
discrimination, and struggle to improve their situation.

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