Dalits or the downtrodden section of our society are a unique Indian entity. Which you do not find in any other country or nation in the world. The word, Dalit, as per Oxford Dictionary means, a member of the lowest caste, however, it is now used as a term for the Scheduled Castes in our country. Dalit is relatively a new term, while Scheduled Caste is a statutory term used for those castes, which have been included in a particular schedule in our Constitution. In fact, various castes of Hindus, traditionally known as Sudras–who were considered backward–culturally, socially and economically–had been listed in that category. The Indian Constitution has bestowed some privileges and concessions upon these castes and they have been allotted quotas in education, training and services, which is known as reservation. Backed by Constitution and law of the land, the Scheduled Castes have enjoyed special privileges and relaxations in various competitions. A lot has been done for their empowerment and emancipation, since independence, yet the majority of these castes, still lag behind in many an area in life. Hence, much and more has to be done. The Dalits are a part and parcel of our social fabric and the nation can not really progress, unless this vast section develops along with others. The Government has special plans and schemes for the upliftment of the Dalits and various non-governmental voluntary organisations are also committed to serve them. But, it is a long journey and every sane and responsible citizen has to contribute his or her bit. The intellectuals and scholars have a special responsibility of awakening the masses and making them aware of the real state of affairs. Hence, this endeavour. This encyclopaedia on Dalits and Dalit world, presents entire gamut of information categorised under seven volumes. This study is research-based and the result of painful and toilsome working hours, spread over several years.
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