Master of Arts (MA) Dalit & Tribal Studies - Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI, Palwal)

The Master of Arts (MA) Dalit & Tribal Studies program at Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural, social, and political experiences of Dalit and Tribal communities in India. This interdisciplinary program examines the issues of caste-based discrimination, social exclusion, identity politics, and empowerment within the context of Dalit and Tribal lives.

At Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal, the MA Dalit & Tribal Studies program covers a wide range of topics related to Dalit and Tribal studies, including the history of caste system and tribal communities, socio-economic conditions, cultural practices, political movements, and policies aimed at addressing their socio-economic and political marginalization. Students will critically analyze the complex intersections of caste, class, gender, and ethnicity in shaping the lives and experiences of Dalit and Tribal communities.

One of the key objectives of the MA Dalit & Tribal Studies program at Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal is to promote social justice and inclusive development for Dalit and Tribal communities. Through academic coursework, fieldwork, and community engagement, students will explore strategies for addressing caste-based discrimination, promoting social cohesion, and advancing the rights and interests of Dalit and Tribal populations. They will also examine the role of state policies, civil society organizations, and grassroots movements in advocating for the rights and empowerment of marginalized communities.

Moreover, the MA Dalit & Tribal Studies program at Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal adopts a comparative and interdisciplinary approach to the study of Dalit and Tribal issues. Students will explore the diversity of Dalit and Tribal experiences across different regions of India, as well as comparative perspectives from other countries with similar histories of social exclusion and discrimination. They will engage with a variety of disciplinary perspectives, including sociology, anthropology, history, political science, cultural studies, and development studies, to gain a holistic understanding of Dalit and Tribal lives.

In addition to academic coursework, the MA Dalit & Tribal Studies program at Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal emphasizes experiential learning and community-based research. Students will have the opportunity to participate in field visits, internships, and research projects with Dalit and Tribal communities, collaborating with local organizations, activists, and scholars to address pressing issues and challenges facing these communities. They will develop critical thinking, research, advocacy, and leadership skills that are essential for promoting social change and empowerment.

Furthermore, the MA Dalit & Tribal Studies program at Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal encourages students to explore interdisciplinary approaches and innovative methodologies for studying Dalit and Tribal issues. Through seminars, workshops, and conferences, students will engage with cutting-edge research and debates in the field, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and scholarship on Dalit and Tribal studies. They will also have access to a vibrant intellectual community, comprising faculty members, researchers, activists, and students, who are committed to promoting social justice and equality for marginalized communities.

Overall, the MA Dalit & Tribal Studies program at Saheed Mahilal Institute (SMI), Palwal offers students a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of Dalit and Tribal issues, engage with diverse perspectives, and contribute to positive social change. Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical commitment to work towards building a more inclusive, equitable, and just society for all.