Creating Cultural Capital for Dalits and Adivasis: Policy Passage for Their De-marginalisation in Higher Education

Abstract

Examining policy beyond mere text, this study passionately delves into the lived experiences of dalit 1 and adivasi 2 students in higher education. The primary objective is to scrutinise the profound impact of public policy on the educational, economic, social and political mobility of these students. Furthermore, it investigates how public policy contributes to their de-marginalisation. Employing an explorative mixed-method approach, the study meticulously gathers data from dalit and adivasi students. The findings unequivocally reveal that public policy not only empowers marginalised students but also plays a pivotal role in cultivating cultural capital for their holistic development, importantly for occupational mobility. This research serves as a robust exploration of the transformative potential of policies, transcending the mere theoretical realm and uncovering the tangible effects on the lives of dalit and adivasi students in higher education.