REGIONAL DISPARITIES, DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS, AND EDUCATIONAL BACKWARDNESS AMONG MUSLIMS IN WEST BENGAL: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This paper, Regional Disparities, Demographic Trends, and Educational Backwardness among Muslims in West Bengal: A Critical Analysis, examines the persistent educational inequalities faced by the Muslim community, which constitutes 25% of the states population yet remains socio-economically marginalised. Drawing on Census data (2011), the Sachar Committee Report (2006), and localised case studies, the study reveals stark literacy gaps: Muslims (63.6% literacy) trail Hindus (73.2%) and Christians (82.4%), with disparities worsening in higher education (only 4.4% graduates). Regional analysis highlights acute disadvantages in high-concentration districts, such as Murshidabad (55.3% literacy) and Uttar Dinajpur (52.1%), where inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and socio-cultural barriers impede access. Gender disparities are pronounced, with only 25% of Muslim girls reaching higher secondary due to early marriage (33% married before 18) and safety concerns. The paper underscores systemic neglect, linking educational backwardness to limited formal employment (predominance in informal sectors) and restricted social mobility. Policy recommendations include targeted interventions, such as prioritising school construction in Muslim-majority areas, recruiting bilingual teachers, expanding girls education initiatives, and modernising madrasas. This study addresses intersectional marginalisation and fosters inclusive development in West Bengal by advocating for spatially tailored, data-driven policies. Keywords: educational disparities, Muslim minority, regional inequality, literacy rates, West Bengal, Sachar Committee, gender gap, policy interventions.