Condition of minorities

For the first time in the planning process special attention is paid to welfare of minorities. It says that the condition of minorities is appalling and needs interventions. The following facts were mentioned:

• Muslims have the highest rate of stunting and second-highest rate of underweight children.

• 25% Muslim children in the 6–14 years age group have either never attended school or have dropped out.

• Only one out of every 25 undergraduate and 50 postgraduate students in premier colleges is a Muslim.

• NCAER figures show that only about 4% of all Muslim students are enrolled in madarsas.

• 61% of the total Muslim workers are self-employed as against 55% of Hindu workers. 73% of Muslim women are self employed as compared to 60% for Hindus.

• Only about 27% of the Muslim workers in urban areas are engaged in regular work as compared to 40% SC/ST, 36% OBC and 49% Hindu upper caste workers.

• NCAER figures show that only about 4% of all Muslim students are enrolled in madarsas.