Affirmative Action in India

Affirmative action has been the topic of a highly polarized debate, in which it is either demonized as the root of all evil or valorized as the panacea for eliminating discrimination. Sketching out the larger context of and debates around the issue, this short introduction analyses the rationale and implementation of affirmative action in India. Discussing the 'why' and 'how' of affirmative action, with glimpses into its history and dynamics, the book offers a perspective on where India stands today. Using detailed empirical evidence, it assesses the success and limitations of affirmative action in providing socio-political and economic justice.