Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Literacy Among Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Tamil Nadu: Insights From the 2001 and 2011 Census

This study assesses the literacy trends of Schedule Caste (SC) and Schedule tribes (ST) in Tamilnadu between 2001 and 2011 census using a spatiotemporal approach. The research depends on secondary data obtained from the census of India reports for both years. A key objective to analyze literacy disparity between Urban and Rural population as well as the gap between SC and ST community and the general population. Findings indicate a notable rise in literacy rates across the state over the decade. However, significant disparities persist particularly in rural areas where SC and ST communities continue to face to educational attainment. The study highlights the role of socio-economic factors, infrastructure challenges and policy implementation in shaping literacy outcomes. The SC and ST communities of rural areas are still continue to face to educational attainment and also study highlights the role of socio-economic factors, infrastructure challenges and policy implementation in shaping literacy outcomes. Not only improvements, the gap between marginalized groups and border population remains a concern necessitating targeted educational reforms. This research suggests the policy interventions are strengthening rural education, infrastructure, implementing inclusive learning programs and enhancing welfare measures for disadvantaged groups. It is important to overcome these challenges to ensure literacy growth for everyone in society.