The Status of Tribal Girls' Education: A Study with Special Reference to Madhya Pradesh(EN)

For decades, the social, economic, and educational status of tribal communities in India has been deprived of mainstream development. The educational status of tribal girls, in particular, has been extremely challenging, with ethnic discrimination, economic backwardness, cultural constraints, and lack of school infrastructure being major obstacles. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of the educational status of tribal girls in selected tribal-dominated districts of Madhya Pradesh, such as Mandla, Dindori, Jhabua, and Alirajpur. Using a descriptive method, primary and secondary data were collected for this research. Special attention was given to parameters such as girls' enrollment, attendance, dropout rate, transition to secondary education, and access to higher education. The study found that although government schemes such as the Kanya Shiksha Prerna Yojana, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and Balika Scholarship schemes have had a partially positive impact, the role of cultural beliefs, safety concerns, and economic factors remains significant in the continuous education of girls. The research findings clearly indicate that if the education of tribal girls is to be encouraged, schemes alone will not suffice, but measures such as community-based awareness, appointment of female teachers, teaching in local languages, and easy access to schools will have to be prioritized. This study will serve as a guide for policymakers, academics, and social organizations.