"Unlike a drop of water which loses its identity when it joins the ocean, man does not lose his being in the society in which he lives. Man's life is independent. He is born not for the development of the society alone, but for the development of his self too." - Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, an Indian jurist, economist, and social reform

What a wonderful metaphor by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar! 

The metaphor compares a drop of water to an individual, suggesting that each person is unique and has their own identity, just as a drop of water has its own characteristics. When the drop of water joins the ocean, it becomes part of a larger entity, losing its individuality and becoming indistinguishable from the rest of the water. Similarly, the quote suggests that individuals can become lost or subsumed within a larger society or community, losing their individuality and sense of self.

The society has an important role to play in human development, it is not the only factor. Each individual has a responsibility to develop their own self, to pursue their own interests, and to discover their own path in life. This requires a balance between personal growth and social engagement, as individuals navigate their roles and responsibilities within their communities.

The main context of this quote is "While human beings are social creatures who exist within a larger community, they should not lose sight of their own identity and unique purpose in life at any circumstances."

What makes this quote unique to this article? Yes, it plays a major role.

Let's see!

Before going into the article I need to say a few words about the struggle faced by the legend Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. Years later he is again known for his braveness and his thoughts.

He fought against the caste system, which he believed to be the root cause of social inequality and discrimination in Indian society. He worked towards the establishment of a casteless society and fought for the rights of the Dalits, who were considered to be the lowest in the social hierarchy.

Another significant contribution of Dr. Ambedkar was in the field of education. He strongly believed that education was the key to social and economic progress and worked towards the establishment of schools and colleges for the underprivileged sections of society. He also founded the People's Education Society to promote education among the Dalits and other marginalized communities.

Although Dr. B.R. Ambedkar fought against two issues in the 1920s, these problems have not yet been resolved. Despite his efforts, as of 2023, these issues persist even after 100 years.

People can't take this struggle here after anymore, they need some silence, rest, peace, they are also humans!

EDUCATION - An Identity to individuals

Education refers to the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes through various formal and informal learning experiences. It is an essential aspect of human development and is considered a basic human right. Education plays a critical role in enabling individuals to participate fully in society, develop critical thinking skills, and pursue personal and professional goals.

Formal education is typically provided through schools, colleges, and universities, where students engage in a structured curriculum and are taught by trained teachers. Informal education, on the other hand, is often acquired through life experiences, such as reading, travel, and social interactions.

Education can take many forms, including academic, vocational, technical, and adult education. Academic education focuses on developing knowledge and skills in traditional academic subjects such as mathematics, science, and humanities. Vocational education, on the other hand, provides practical skills and training for specific occupations or industries. Technical education focuses on developing skills related to technology and engineering, while adult education is designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities for individuals of all ages.

Education is a critical factor in promoting economic and social development, reducing poverty, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and social inequality. Governments, international organizations, and civil society groups are working to ensure that all individuals have access to quality education, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

Importance of Education

Education is widely considered as one of the most important factors in human development and progress. Here are some reasons why education is important:

• Personal Development: Education plays a critical role in personal development by providing individuals with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to navigate the world around them. It helps individuals to develop critical thinking skills, improve their communication skills, and enhances their ability to make informed decisions.
• Economic Development: Education is crucial for economic development as it provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in the workforce and contribute to economic growth. It can lead to higher levels of income, increased productivity, and the creation of new jobs.
• Social Development: Education is essential for social development as it helps to promote social mobility and reduce social inequality. Education can help individuals to overcome social barriers and access better job opportunities, health care, and other services.

• Empowerment: Education empowers individuals by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for themselves and their communities. Education helps individuals to develop a sense of agency and the ability to participate fully in democratic processes.
• Global Development: Education is essential for global development as it helps to promote cultural understanding, tolerance, and cooperation across borders. Education can help individuals to develop the skills needed to address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.

Pride of Education

The pride of education refers to the sense of accomplishment, self-worth, and fulfilment that comes from obtaining knowledge and skills through formal education. Education is not just about acquiring information but also about developing critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, leadership skills and mainly social responsibility. When individuals invest time and effort in their education, they can develop a sense of pride and satisfaction in their accomplishments.

There are many reasons why education can be a source of pride. For one, it can provide individuals with opportunities for personal growth and development. Education can also lead to better job prospects, higher salaries, and greater social mobility, which can increase self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, education can help individuals become more informed and engaged citizens, which can promote social change and positive community impact.

Moreover, education can help individuals develop a sense of purpose and direction in life. Through education, individuals can identify their passions and interests, set goals for themselves, and work towards achieving those goals. This sense of purpose can give individuals a sense of pride and accomplishment, as they work towards fulfilling their potential.

Hence, the pride of education is about the sense of accomplishment and self-worth that comes from obtaining knowledge and skills through formal education. Education can provide individuals with opportunities for personal growth and development, better job prospects, and a sense of purpose and direction in life. By investing in their education, individuals can develop a sense of pride and satisfaction in their accomplishments, which can contribute to their overall well-being and success.

Purity in Education

Purity in education refers to the maintenance of high ethical and moral standards in the education system. This includes the promotion of academic integrity, honesty, fairness, and transparency in all aspects of education, including teaching, research, and administration.

Maintaining purity in education is essential for ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for success in their personal and professional lives. Here are some reasons why purity in education is important:

• Academic Integrity: Purity in education promotes academic integrity by encouraging students to engage in honest and ethical behavior. This includes refraining from cheating, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty.
• Fairness: Purity in education ensures that all students are treated fairly and have access to the same opportunities and resources. This includes ensuring that grading and evaluation systems are fair and objective and that all students are given equal opportunities to succeed.
• Transparency: Purity in education promotes transparency by ensuring that all decision-making processes are open and transparent. This includes providing students with clear and accurate information about course requirements, grading criteria, and other important aspects of their education.
• Professionalism: Purity in education promotes professionalism by encouraging educators to maintain high ethical and moral standards in their work. This includes treating students with respect, providing them with constructive feedback, and engaging in ongoing professional development.
• Trust: Purity in education promotes trust by creating a culture of honesty and transparency. This helps to build trust between educators and students, which is essential for creating a positive learning environment.

EDUCATIONAL CRIMES - A scandal

Educational crime committed by institutions

Educational crime committed by institutions refers to any illegal or unethical activities that are perpetrated by educational institutions, their staff, or their agents, and which negatively impact the educational experience and outcomes of students and/or the wider community. 

Importance of addressing educational crime by institutions

It is essential to address educational crime committed by institutions as it can have severe consequences for the students and the larger society. Educational institutions are expected to provide a safe and fair learning environment for students, and any crime committed by these institutions undermines that expectation.

When educational institutions engage in malpractice, it can harm students' learning and future prospects. For instance, embezzlement of funds meant for students' education can lead to inadequate resources for teaching and learning, affecting students' academic performance and potential. Discrimination against students can limit their opportunities for education and employment, hindering their overall prospects in life.

Educational crime committed by institutions can erode public trust in the educational system. If people believe that educational institutions are corrupt and do not act in the best interest of students, they may be less likely to invest in education or support policies that promote it. This can have long-term implications for the social and economic development of a country.

Types of educational crime by institutions

Some common examples of educational crime committed by institutions include:

• Fraudulent marketing and recruitment practices: Institutions may engage in deceptive marketing and recruitment tactics that mislead prospective students, such as making false promises, misrepresenting programs and services, or using unethical recruitment practices.
• Misuse of funds and financial aid: Institutions may misuse funds and financial aid, such as diverting funds from mental health services and suicide prevention programs, misallocating financial aid, using funds for non-essential purposes, or failing to provide adequate support services for students in need.
• Misrepresentation of accreditation and academic standards: Institutions may make false or misleading claims about their accreditation and academic standards, such as falsely claiming accreditation or misrepresenting the quality of academic programs.
• Discrimination and harassment: Institutions may engage in discriminatory or harassing behavior towards students or staff on the basis of their race, gender, sexuality, religion, or other characteristics.
• Failure to provide a safe and secure learning environment: Institutions may fail to provide adequate safety and security measures, such as failing to address or prevent incidents of violence, sexual assault, or other forms of harm to students.

MAJOR CRIME - Caste discrimination

There is a significant difference in the number of crimes committed against Scheduled Castes (SC) students compared to students from higher castes in India. SC students are more vulnerable to various forms of violence, discrimination, and harassment due to their social identity.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, crimes against SC students in educational institutions have increased by 25% from 2017 to 2018. This includes physical violence, verbal abuse, and bullying, among others.

Additionally, SC students face significant barriers in accessing educational opportunities, including discrimination in the admission process, a lack of resources and support, and lower quality of education. This can contribute to a higher dropout rate among SC students compared to students from higher castes.

Furthermore, SC students are more likely to experience mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, due to the discrimination and harassment they face in educational institutions. This can lead to an increased risk of suicide among SC students compared to students from higher castes.

Hence, crimes against SC students in educational institutions are a significant issue in India and require immediate attention and action to promote social justice and ensure equal access to educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their social identity.

Scheduled Caste (SC)

SC stands for Scheduled Castes, which refers to a group of historically marginalized and oppressed communities in India. The term "scheduled" refers to the fact that these communities are recognized and listed in the Indian Constitution's Schedule Caste list. These communities were traditionally considered "untouchables" in the caste system, which is a hierarchical social structure that divides people into different castes based on their birth and occupation.

SC communities have faced discrimination, social exclusion, and violence for centuries, including limitations on their access to education and employment opportunities. The Indian government has implemented various affirmative action policies, such as reservations in educational institutions and public sector jobs, to address historical injustices and promote social equality.

Despite these policies, SC communities continue to face significant social, economic, and educational challenges, including high poverty rates, limited access to quality education, and discrimination in various aspects of life. Therefore, addressing crimes committed against SC communities is crucial to promoting social justice and ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their social identity.

SC students and their education system

SC students face several challenges in the education system in India, including discrimination, limited access to quality education, and a lack of resources and support.

Discrimination against SC students can begin as early as the admission process, where they may face barriers such as lower cut-off marks, lack of access to information, and biased selection committees. In the classroom, SC students are more likely to experience discrimination from their peers and teachers, including verbal abuse, bullying, and exclusion.

Additionally, SC students often lack access to quality education due to the limited number of schools and resources available in their communities. This can lead to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and poorly trained teachers. SC students are also more likely to drop out of school due to economic and social pressures, including poverty, discrimination, and family responsibilities.

To address these challenges, the Indian government has implemented various policies and programs to promote equal access to education for SC students. This includes reservations in educational institutions, scholarships and financial aid, and special coaching programs. However, there is still a long way to go to ensure that SC students have equal opportunities to succeed in the education system and beyond.

Comparing Educational attainment and outcomes: A survey of Scheduled Caste and General students in India

There have been several surveys and studies comparing the educational attainment and outcomes of Scheduled Caste (SC) and general students in India.

One such survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) in 2014 found that the literacy rate among SC students aged 7 years and above was 66.1%, compared to 82.1% for the general population. The same survey found that the dropout rate among SC students was higher than that of general students, with 17.5% of SC students dropping out of primary school compared to 13.2% of general students.

Another study conducted by the India Human Development Survey (IHDS) in 2011-12 found that SC students were less likely to attend school regularly and were more likely to be enrolled in government schools with lower-quality infrastructure and teaching resources. The study also found that SC students were more likely to be enrolled in vocational courses rather than academic courses, indicating a lack of access to quality education that could lead to higher-paying jobs and greater upward mobility.

Hence, these surveys and studies suggest that SC students face significant educational challenges and disparities compared to general students in India. Addressing these disparities will require a concerted effort from the government and educational institutions to provide equal access to quality education and support for SC students.

Types of crimes committed by institutions against SC students

There are many crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes can create significant barriers to their education and professional development. It is important for institutions to take concrete steps to address and prevent these types of crimes and provide support and resources to SC students who have been victimized. This will require a commitment from educational institutions, as well as society as a whole, to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all members of the community.

A. Discrimination and harassment: Discrimination and harassment against SC students can occur in a variety of settings, including the classroom, campus housing, extracurricular activities, and employment opportunities. This can manifest as verbal or physical abuse, exclusion from certain activities or programs, or biased grading. Such behavior can create a hostile environment for SC students, leading to lower academic achievement and a lack of opportunities.

B. Denial of access to education and employment opportunities: Despite constitutional safeguards and affirmative action policies, institutions may continue to deny SC students access to education and employment opportunities. This can take the form of discriminatory admission policies or the provision of inadequate resources and support services. SC students may also face bias in the job market and be passed over for promotions or other opportunities in favor of non-SC candidates.

C. Violence and abuse: Violence and abuse against SC students is a serious problem in India. This can take many forms, such as bullying, physical assault, sexual harassment or assault, and hazing. These incidents can have serious and long-lasting impacts on the mental and physical health of the victims, and can lead to poor academic performance or even dropout from school.

D. Failure to provide adequate support and protection: Institutions may fail to provide SC students with the necessary support and protection to ensure their safety and well-being. This can include inadequate mental health support or counseling services, inadequate security measures, or a lack of response to incidents of discrimination or violence. Without adequate support and protection, SC students may feel isolated, unsupported, and vulnerable to further abuse.

Consequences of crimes committed by institutions

A. Impact on the physical and mental health of Scheduled Castes candidates 

Crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates can have a significant impact on their physical and mental health. Discrimination, harassment, violence, and abuse can cause a range of physical health problems such as stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

The constant fear and anxiety of facing discrimination can cause chronic stress, leading to the release of cortisol, which can affect the immune system, heart rate, blood pressure, and other physical functions. Discrimination can also cause physical symptoms such as headaches, body pain, and digestive problems.

The emotional toll of discrimination and abuse can cause mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health disorders. Discrimination can also affect a person's self-esteem, self-worth, and confidence, leading to social isolation, withdrawal, and a feeling of hopelessness.

In extreme cases, discrimination can lead to self-harm or even suicide. Studies have shown that Scheduled Castes candidates are at a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population, and discrimination and harassment can be contributing factors to these tragic outcomes.

Therefore, it is crucial to address and prevent crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates to protect their physical and mental health and ensure they have a fair and equal opportunity to access education and employment opportunities.

B. Loss of opportunities and economic disadvantages

Crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates can also result in the loss of opportunities and economic disadvantages. Denial of access to education and employment opportunities, discrimination, harassment, and violence can limit the ability of Scheduled Castes candidates to reach their full potential.

In education, discrimination can result in lower grades, decreased access to quality education, and limited opportunities to pursue higher education. This can affect their ability to secure good jobs, earn higher salaries, and achieve economic independence. Discrimination in employment can also limit access to well-paying jobs, promotions, and other opportunities for career advancement.

Moreover, the economic disadvantages that Scheduled Castes candidates face can be intergenerational. The lack of access to quality education and employment opportunities can result in limited economic mobility for individuals and families, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and discrimination.

Therefore, addressing crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates is essential to ensure that they have equal access to education and employment opportunities, which can lead to economic empowerment and help break the cycle of poverty and discrimination.

C. Damage to the social fabric and harmony of society

Crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates can also damage the social fabric and harmony of society. Discrimination, harassment, violence, and denial of opportunities based on caste can create a sense of division and inequality among different social groups.

Such crimes can also foster a sense of resentment and mistrust among Scheduled Castes candidates towards institutions, leading to social and political unrest. This can create a vicious cycle of discrimination and backlash that damages the fabric of society and creates tension between different social groups.

Additionally, discrimination and violence against Scheduled Castes candidates can also affect the psyche of the larger society, leading to a sense of helplessness, apathy, and resignation towards the issue of caste-based discrimination.

Therefore, addressing crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates is important not only for the individuals affected but also for the larger society to promote social harmony, equality, and justice for all. It can create a sense of trust and mutual respect among different social groups and lead to a more inclusive and cohesive society.

D. Legal and regulatory consequences

Crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates can also have legal and regulatory consequences. The Constitution of India provides for the protection of the rights of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and prohibits discrimination based on caste.

There are several laws and regulations in place to prevent and punish crimes committed against Scheduled Castes candidates, such as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955.

Institutions found guilty of committing crimes against Scheduled Castes candidates can face legal action and penalties, including fines and imprisonment. They can also face damage to their reputation and loss of credibility.

Therefore, it is important for institutions to comply with the laws and regulations in place and ensure the safety and well-being of all their students, including Scheduled Castes candidates. Failure to do so can lead to legal and regulatory consequences and damage to their reputation and standing in society.

Prevention and detection of crimes committed by institutions

A. Education and awareness campaigns: One of the key strategies to prevent and detect crimes committed by institutions is through education and awareness campaigns. These campaigns can help create a better understanding of the issues faced by Scheduled Castes candidates, as well as promote tolerance and inclusivity in society. Educational institutions can also play a vital role in organizing and conducting such campaigns.

B. Strengthening of legal frameworks and enforcement: Another important strategy is to strengthen legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to hold institutions accountable for their actions. This can involve increasing penalties for institutions found guilty of committing crimes against Scheduled Castes candidates and ensuring that legal provisions are effectively enforced.

C. Empowerment of Scheduled Castes through affirmative action policies: Affirmative action policies such as reservation of seats in educational institutions and employment opportunities can help empower Scheduled Castes candidates and provide them with a level playing field. This can also help bridge the economic and social gap between Scheduled Castes and other communities.

D. Collaboration between institutions and civil society organizations: Collaborative efforts between educational institutions and civil society organizations can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for Scheduled Castes candidates. This can involve creating support groups, providing counseling services, and offering career guidance and mentorship programs.

Overall, a multi-pronged approach is needed to effectively prevent and detect crimes committed by institutions against Scheduled Castes candidates. This requires a combination of education, legal and regulatory measures, affirmative action policies, and collaboration between institutions and civil society organizations.

RECENT FORECAST - An awful situation among humanity

Seriously, this issue to be noticed by the government of India. This is happening to 10 members out of 100. Here, are such recent incidents highlighting the above issue. 

A second-year B.Tech student at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Kozhikode jumped off the hostel building on campus on 16th February, 2023. This marks the third such incident in that same week. Additionally, two students from Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) died by suicide on February 12th and 13th of the same year.

West Bengal native Nidhin Sharma was enrolled in the second year of electrical engineering at the NIT Kozhikode campus. "It is unknown why people commit suicide. However, the dead informed his friend over WhatsApp that he intended to take his own life. 

IIT Bombay was in the news after Darshan Solanki, a first-year engineering student there, died on February 12 after jumping from the seventh floor of a dormitory building. The victim was an Ahmedabad native. The Ambedkar Periyar Phule Study Circle (APPSC) brought attention to the caste prejudice in IITs after the occurrence. IIT-Bombay, however, strongly disagreed with the assertions. 

On February 20, a group of approximately 50 students from various political organizations gathered outside the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai to raise awareness for #JusticeForDarshanSolanki. The 18-year-old Dalit student had allegedly taken his own life during his second semester studying chemical engineering on the IIT Bombay campus. The students sought acknowledgement and action to address institutionalized discrimination against the already marginalized Dalit-Bahujan-Adivasi (DBA) community, which they believed contributed to Solanki's death. While suicide is a complex issue with multiple risk factors, Solanki's death brought attention once again to the issue of caste discrimination within India's top educational institutions.

Stephan Sunny, a Maharashtrian student at IIT Madras pursuing a Masters in electrical engineering, was discovered hanging from the ceiling the following day. According to a report in the Times of India, the student urged "don't prosecute" in his suicide note. After another IIT Madras student made an attempt to suicide, the students organised an overnight protest. 

According to official statistics that was provided to the Lok Sabha in December 2021, SC, ST, OBC, and minority populations accounted for 58% of the student suicides at IITs, NITs, and other central institutes. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB report 2021), which was published in August of last year, the number of student suicides in India increased by 27% between 2016 and 2021, a period of five years.

CONCLUSION

Most importantly, students should be resilient and not let anyone's words affect them. The beginning quote of this article emphasizes this point. Students need not conform to follow all the societal norms and to be a part of a corrupt system. They are well-educated and have experienced different scenarios, so their caste should not define them. The world is progressing with technology, and we need to move beyond caste discrimination. Those who are easily affected by others should be strong and live their lives in a positive manner and this will help to change the outdated thinking. It is a significant achievement for students to secure a seat in prestigious institutions like IIT/NIT, and they should be proud to live their lives against all odds. Suicide is not a solution to this problem, as many people continue to live their lives despite the challenges they face. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, a great roll model, who is also from the same community, has proved the world with his knowledge and braveness, has defined many laws to all the people. Everyone needs to know one thing here, that he doesn't struggle only for their community, but for all human beings. Thats humanity! Thinking of his courage to protest all odds at the small age without any resources. SALUTE!

Just think-of - If someone in a higher caste requires a rare blood group during surgery, but the hospital does not have it in stock, and they discover that a marginalised person has the same blood group, will they be willing to accept a blood donation from them or not?

Education is a tool to create identity, every humans need it. Don't make caste to decide it! 

A human soul cannot depart from this world over the petty reason of their caste, as it carries many responsibilities!

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References:

• https://news.careers360.com/
  
• https://thecsrjournal.in/l
  
• https://www.thehindu.com/
  
• https://indianexpress.com/