Socio-Economic Conditions and Reproductive Health Outcomes: Evidence from the Harijan (Dalit) Community in Assam

Marginalised communities often experience socio-economic disadvantages that adversely affect their reproductive health and overall well-being. This study investigates the socio-economic conditions and reproductive health outcomes of the Harijan (Dalit) community in Assam using primary survey data collected from 667 ever-married women of reproductive age across eight districts of the state. The research employs descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, and Chi-square tests to examine demographic characteristics, socio-economic status, maternal healthcare practices, and child survival indicators. The findings reveal that poverty, limited educational attainment, low household income, and restricted access to healthcare services continue to influence reproductive health outcomes. Although a considerable proportion of women utilise institutional delivery services and have access to basic amenities, disparities remain in housing conditions, healthcare accessibility, and maternal health practices. The analysis further establishes that educational status, family income, and access to healthcare services have significant associations with key reproductive health indicators, particularly place of delivery and breastfeeding duration. The study highlights the need for targeted policy interventions aimed at improving female education, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and enhancing socio-economic opportunities to achieve better maternal and child health outcomes among the Harijan (Dalit) community in Assam

Harijan (Dalit) Community, Socio-Economic Factors, Reproductive Health Outcomes, Healthcare Access, Maternal Healthcare

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