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@article{209060,
        author = {Suman Chaudhary and Dr. Durgesh Mani Tripathi},
        title = {From Illiteracy to Employment: How Educational Levels Shape Economic Outcomes for Scheduled Caste Households in Prayagraj},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {5},
        pages = {350-359},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=209060},
        abstract = {Education plays a crucial role in shaping employment opportunities, income levels, occupational mobility, and household economic well-being. Among Scheduled Caste (SC) households, educational disadvantage has historically been associated with restricted access to formal employment, dependence on low-paid occupations, and persistent socio-economic vulnerability. In this context, the relationship between educational attainment and economic outcomes assumes particular significance in Prayagraj, a socially and economically diverse district of Uttar Pradesh. The present study examines the transition from educational deprivation to improved employment and economic conditions among SC households, with particular emphasis on how differences in educational attainment are reflected in occupational structure, employment opportunities, income, and economic security. The study highlights a clear association between educational level and the nature of employment available to SC households. Households characterised by illiteracy or very low levels of schooling tend to have greater dependence on casual labour, agricultural activities, informal employment, and other occupations offering limited income stability and social security. With increasing educational attainment, opportunities gradually expand towards skilled, salaried, professional, and public or private sector employment. Education also contributes to occupational diversification, greater earning potential, improved awareness of employment opportunities, and enhanced capacity to access institutional and economic resources. However, educational advancement does not automatically eliminate economic disadvantage. Differences in household resources, skill development, gender, location, access to institutions, and the availability of suitable employment continue to influence economic outcomes. The study therefore underscores education as an important pathway for improving the livelihood conditions of SC households while recognising the need for complementary interventions in skills, employment generation, and inclusive economic development.},
        keywords = {Education, Inclusive development, Employment, Scheduled castes.},
        month = {October},
        }