| Abstract: | Caste-based discrimination remains a persistent social reality in India, particularly within public welfare institutions designed to promote equality and inclusion. This study explores caste-based discrimination against Dalit cooks employed in Anganwadi Centres and primary schools in Odisha. These institutions operate under major government initiatives such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Midday Meal Scheme, which aim to ensure child nutrition, early childhood care, and universal access to elementary education. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality, caste prejudice continues to shape everyday interactions and work environments. The study adopts an empirical research design based on fieldwork conducted in selected rural and semiurban areas of Odisha. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observation, and case studies involving Dalit cooks. The findings reveal both overt and subtle forms of discrimination, including social exclusion, reluctance among upper-caste parents to allow their children to consume food prepared by Dalit cooks, segregation in food distribution, and instances of verbal humiliation. In certain cases, caste identity affected job security and community acceptance. The study further demonstrates how caste intersects with gender and class, intensifying the marginalization of Dalit women workers. Although welfare schemes emphasize social justice and inclusive development, the persistence of discriminatory practices at the grassroots level undermines these goals. The paper argues for stronger institutional monitoring, community sensitization, and effective implementation of antidiscrimination measures to safeguard dignity and equality in public institutions. This research contributes to the broader discourse on caste, labour, and social exclusion in India by foregrounding the lived experiences of Dalit cooks within state-supported educational and childcare settings. |
