EQUITY AND INCLUSION IN HIGHER EDUCATION IN INDIA: BRIDGING GAPS FOR A JUST SOCIETY

Abstract

Equity and inclusion in higher education are essential for building a just, progressive, and diverse society. In India, where disparities based on caste, gender, region, and socio-economic status persist, achieving equity in access to higher education is both a challenge and a priority. This chapter examines the landscape of equity and inclusion in Indian higher education, focusing on government initiatives, institutional policies, and societal challenges. The chapter begins by exploring historical and systemic inequities that have shaped access to higher education in India. It reviews key policies, such as reservation systems, scholarships, and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aim to promote inclusion. Data analysis reveals significant progress in enrollment rates among underrepresented groups, such as Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women, but also underscores persistent barriers, including economic constraints, digital divides, and social biases. The chapter concludes with recommendations to strengthen equity and inclusion in higher education, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions, inclusive teaching practices, and greater collaboration between institutions, policymakers, and civil society.