Abstract:
This paper explores the educational empowerment of tribal women in Sikkim by critically reviewing national and state-level policies and schemes aimed at bridging gender and social disparities. Education is widely recognized as a transformative tool that not only improves literacy but also enhances socio-economic participation, political representation, and individual agency. In the context of Sikkim, where tribal communities such as the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Limbus form a significant part of the population, women have historically faced multiple disadvantages due to geographical isolation, cultural traditions, and economic hardships. National initiatives like the Right to Education Act, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Samagra Shiksha, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, and Eklavya Model Residential Schools, combined with state measures such as free educational materials, scholarships, hostels, and women’s reservation in Panchayati Raj institutions, have contributed to narrowing gender gaps and improving literacy among tribal women. Despite these achievements, challenges persist in terms of high dropout rates, infrastructural limitations, shortage of qualified teachers, and inadequate cultural adaptation of curricula. The paper argues that while policies have created a foundation for progress, more context-specific strategies, community involvement, and culturally sensitive approaches are needed to achieve sustainable empowerment. The study emphasizes that educational empowerment of tribal women is not just a gender issue but a crucial element of inclusive development in Sikkim.
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